What is a guava?
Guava is a tropical fruit that belongs to the Myrtaceae family and is scientifically known as Psidium. Known for its sweet and aromatic flavor, guava typically has a green or yellowish skin, depending on the variety. The inner flesh can range from white to vibrant pink, and it’s punctuated with small seeds. The fruit’s texture varies from crisp to creamy, depending on the specific type.
Guavas are not only delicious but also boast a rich nutritional profile. They are a good source of vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants. The fruit is often consumed fresh, either sliced or scooped out with a spoon, and its distinct taste makes it a popular ingredient in various culinary applications.
The guava plant is an evergreen shrub or small tree, and it thrives in warm climates. Beyond its culinary uses, guava is appreciated for its potential health benefits, including immune system support, digestive health promotion, and skin enhancement. With its versatility and wide array of varieties, guava continues to be a beloved fruit enjoyed in many parts of the world.
While most people may be familiar with the common yellow guava or pink tropical guava, there exists a world of different Psidium guajava varieties to discover. In this article, we will highlight 30 of the top and most prized guavas, covering an array of colorful types from across the globe.
While most people may be familiar with the common yellow guava or pink tropical guava, there is a world of different Psidium guajava varieties to discover. In this article, we will highlight 30 of the top and most prized guavas, covering an array of colorful types from across the globe.
We’ll explore popular green varieties like the Mexican Cream, Strawberry, and Allahabad Safeda guavas. For yellow varieties, we’ll cover options like the Behat Coconut, Lemon, and Thai Maroon guavas. Pink and red varieties like the Red Malaysian, Ruby Supreme, and Hong Kong Pink Guavas also make the list.
Beyond color, we’ll look at distinguishing features like texture, taste, uses, origins, and growing conditions. Understanding the diversity of guava types lets you expand your palate and horticultural knowledge. So let’s dive into 30 of the most popular guavas found around the world!
Let me know if you would like me to modify or expand on this draft introduction in any way. I’m happy to keep refining it to effectively set up your post on the top guava varieties
33 Varieties Of Guavas
- Mexican Cream Guava
- Strawberry Guava
- Tropical White Guava
- Allahabad Safeda
- Ruby Supreme Guava
- Red Malaysian Guava
- Pineapple Guava
- Lalit Guava
- Behat Coconut Guava
- Hong Kong Pink Guava
- Apple Guava
- Fan Retief Guava
- Lemon Guava
- Guinea guava
- Thai Maroon Guava
- Variegated Guava
- Harijha guava
18. Lucknow 49 Guava
19. Grape Guava
20. Red Indian Guava
21. Ahmedabad Pink Guava
22. Chittidar Guava
23. Safeda Lucknow Guava
24. Pearl Guava
25. Banarasi guava
26. Seedless Thai Guava
27. Arka Mridula
28. Costa Rican Guava
29. Bangkok Guava
30. Cherry guavas
1. Mexican Cream guava
With its round shape and smooth green skin, Mexican Cream guava is a prized variety. The creamy white interior flesh has a mildly sweet floral flavor that makes it perfect for eating raw. This type of guava originated in Mexico and works great in desserts, juices, and an array of other applications.
2. Strawberry guava
The Strawberry guava gets its name from its vivid red interior that resembles a strawberry when cut open. With its green exterior and slightly tangy, sweet red pulp, it is excellent for making jams, beverages, and other treats. Native to South America, strawberry guava has become popular around the world, especially Hawaii.
3. Tropical White Guava
Tropical White guava is a lovely smooth-skinned guava with a light yellow exterior. Its tender white flesh has a delicate, floral taste and creamy texture perfect for salads, smoothies, and eating raw. This variety thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, especially prized in places like Florida and Hawaii.
4.Allahabad Safeda
Allahabad Safeda is a commercially popular variety of guava cultivated in northern India. It has a green to pale yellow skin when ripe and its white flesh is creamy with a mild sweet flavor. This guava is excellent for processing and also makes a refreshing juice.
5.Ruby Supreme guava
With its vibrant hot pink exterior, Ruby Supreme guava is impossible to miss. The soft, sweet pink pulp inside provides delicious flavor perfect for snacking, juices, jellies. This visually striking guava variety thrives in tropical and subtropical regions like Florida and Hawaii.
6.Red Malaysian Guava
Distinguished by its bright red skin and soft pink interior flesh, Red Malaysian guava has a sweet flavor with mild acidity. This variety is excellent for smoothies, snacks, baking, and other uses. Red Malaysian guava is native to Malaysia but also grown in many tropical regions now like Hawaii and Florida.
7.Pineapple Guava
Pineapple guava is named for its distinctive tropical pineapple-like flavor and aroma. With smooth yellow skin surrounding white flesh, it is excellent for eating raw and cooking. This type originated in South America but is now grown in tropical climates worldwide.
8.Lalit Guava
Lalit is a popular high-yielding guava cultivar developed in India. It has light green to yellow skin when ripe and creamy white flesh with few seeds inside. The Lalit guava is prized for its unique sweet-tart flavor and high vitamin C content.
9.Behat Coconut Guava
The Behat Coconut guava, as its name suggests, has a sweet coconut-like flavor and aroma. This variety has light green to yellow skin when ripe and soft white flesh inside. Behat Coconut guava is believed to have originated in Asia and is now grown in tropical regions for its unique coconut essence.
10.Hong Kong Pink Guava
Hong Kong Pink guava has deep pink outer skin surrounding sweet, white flesh speckled with red. It is packed with flavor, low in seeds, and contains high vitamin C content. This variety thrives in subtropical climates, prized by growers in southern China and Taiwan.
World production of guava
| Country | Annual Production (Metric Tons) | Primary Growing Regions |
|---|---|---|
| India | 4,056,000 | Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh |
| China | 1,198,000 | Sichuan, Guangdong, Guangxi |
| Thailand | 785,000 | Central and Eastern regions |
| Indonesia | 578,000 | Java, Sumatra |
| Mexico | 425,000 | Michoacán, Aguascalientes |
| Pakistan | 375,000 | Punjab, Sindh |
| Brazil | 345,000 | São Paulo, Pernambuco |
| Bangladesh | 298,000 | Khulna, Chittagong |
| Philippines | 258,000 | Calabarzon, Central Luzon |
| Egypt | 245,000 | Nile Delta, Upper Egypt |
11.Apple guava
Apple guava has a greenish skin and crunchy pale flesh that resembles an apple in texture. It has a tangy, crisp flavor that makes it excellent for juices, jellies, and preserves. This type originated in South America and is still most prominent in countries like Colombia and Brazil
12.Fan Retief guava
Fan Retief is a pink-fleshed guava cultivar that originated in South Africa. It has a lovely salmon pink outer skin and tender sweet pink pulp inside perfect for eating fresh. Fan Retief guava is high-yielding and resistant to fruit fly, making it a popular commercial variety.
13.Lemon Guava
True to its name, Lemon guava has bright yellow skin and flesh with a tart, citrusy lemon-like flavor. Its refreshing acidity makes lemon guava ideal for juices, desserts, seafood dishes and more. This variety grows well in tropical climates like Hawaii and parts of Asia and South America.
14. Guinea guava
Guinea Guava, an exotic treasure from West Africa, entices with its unique blend of sweetness and tropical flair. With a distinct green exterior and juicy, aromatic flesh, this guava variety transports taste buds to the lush landscapes of Guinea. Experience the delight of Guinea Guava, a flavorful escape to the heart of African tropical richness.
15.Thai Maroon Guava
Thai Maroon guava, as its name denotes, has a unique maroon-colored skin and flesh with sweet, aromatic flavor. It is a tropical guava that thrives in hot, humid environments like Thailand and Malaysia. Thai Maroon guava works wonderfully fresh or used to flavor juices, ice creams, and preserves.
Variegated Guava
Variegated Guava, a tropical marvel, stands out with its striking green-and-yellow variegated foliage, adding visual appeal to orchards. Beyond its vibrant appearance, this guava variety delights with its sweet and aromatic flavor profile, making it a sensory delight for fruit enthusiasts. Explore the unique combination of aesthetics and taste with Variegated Guava, a true gem in the world of tropical fruits.
17.Harijha guava
Harijha is a sweet, round, greenish-yellow guava variety that originated and became popular in the Bihar state of India. These large, sparsely branched trees produce medium to large fruits with an exceptionally long shelf life and sweet flavor that can be enjoyed raw or sliced just like pears.
Touted for its blood sugar regulating benefits, Harijha guava is rich in vitamins, fiber and antioxidants, making it a nutritious fruit option that likely gets its renowned sweetness from the region it was first cultivated in.
18.Lucknow 49 Guava
Also called Sardar, Lucknow 49 White is an Asian guava cultivar that lives up to its name by producing abundant large, bumpy round fruits averaging nearly 2 pounds each. This high-yield tree reveals a yellowish-green skin when mature, enclosing an enticing snow-white interior pulp with ultra few seeds and a sweetly tart, floral punch of flavor. Lucknow 49 develops signature copper bark with pretty pink and green undertones as it matures, requiring some light pruning to support heavy crops.
19.Grape guava
Grape guava is named for its fruit clusters that resemble grape bunches. This small, round, yellow-skinned fruit has a sweet, musky flavor and crunchy texture when ripe. Grape guavas originated in and are most commonly found growing wild throughout the tropical regions of Central America.
20.Red Indian Guava
Red Indian is a popular variety of guava with bright red skin and soft, sweet, white or pink flesh. It originated in southern India but is now widely grown in tropical regions for its rich flavor. Red Indian guava is excellent for fresh eating out-of-hand and stands out visually from other varieties with its vibrant crimson red exterior.
Worldwide Guava Production Trends (tons)
| Year | India | China | Thailand | Indonesia | Mexico |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 4,056,000 | 1,198,000 | 785,000 | 578,000 | 425,000 |
| 2022 | 4,048,000 | 1,188,000 | 780,000 | 575,000 | 422,000 |
| 2021 | 4,035,000 | 1,178,000 | 775,000 | 570,000 | 418,000 |
| 2020 | 4,015,000 | 1,162,000 | 768,000 | 565,000 | 415,000 |
| 2019 | 4,002,000 | 1,145,000 | 762,000 | 558,000 | 408,000 |
| 2018 | 3,987,000 | 1,125,000 | 748,000 | 548,000 | 402,000 |
| 2017 | 3,952,000 | 1,089,000 | 735,000 | 538,000 | 395,000 |
| 2016 | 3,890,000 | 1,048,000 | 718,000 | 528,000 | 382,000 |
| 2015 | 3,842,000 | 1,015,000 | 702,000 | 512,000 | 368,000 |
| 2014 | 3,785,000 | 982,000 | 685,000 | 495,000 | 352,000 |
21.Ahmedabad Pink Guava
Ahmedabad Pink is a deliciously sweet guava cultivar that originated in western India. The skin turns a lovely pink hue when ripe and encases creamy white flesh with a subtle perfumed aroma. Ahmedabad Pink trees produce good yields and the fruit is well-suited for processing into juices, jams and other products.
22.Chittidar Guava
Chittidar is a high quality guava cultivar developed in India known for its unique flavor. It has light green skin that ripens to yellow, and its white pulp is crispy in texture with hints of strawberry taste. Chittidar guava thrives well in the northern Indian plains, producing good fruit yields.
23.Safeda Lucknow Guava
Safeda Lucknow is a favored guava variety originating from the Lucknow region of northern India. It has light green to yellow skin when ripe and a soft, creamy white interior flesh with a sweet floral flavor. Safeda Lucknow fruits are prized for canning and processing as well as being excellent for fresh eating.
24.Pearl guava
Pearl guava is a pink-fleshed variety that originated in Taiwan. It has lovely white fruit with a light yellow blush that resemble pearls. Pearl guava is valued for its sweet flavor, beautiful appearance, and high pectin content that makes it excellent for jams and preserves.
25.Banarasi guava
Banarasi guava, a pride of the Indian orchards, delights with its distinct sweetness and aromatic essence. Grown in the fertile lands around Varanasi, this unique variety features a luscious pinkish hue and a smooth, creamy texture. Renowned for its exquisite taste, the Banarasi guava is a local treasure, embodying the rich flavors of the region. From its fragrant aroma to its juicy bite, it stands as a testament to the agricultural richness and culinary heritage of Varanasi.
26.Seedless Thai Guava
Seedless Thai Guava, a tropical delight, offers a hassle-free indulgence with its smooth texture and absence of seeds. Hailing from Thailand, this variety captivates taste buds with its sweet and refreshing flavor profile. Ideal for those who prefer a seed-free experience, the Seedless Thai Guava is a convenient and juicy tropical treat. Enjoy the essence of Thailand in every bite
27.Arka Mridula
Arka Mridula, a noteworthy guava cultivar, is making waves with its exceptional taste and distinct characteristics. this guava variety boasts a perfect balance of sweetness and aroma. With its vibrant green skin and juicy, pinkish flesh, Arka Mridula stands out as a flavorful and visually appealing choice for guava enthusiasts. Embrace a sensory journey with this unique guava that reflects the expertise and innovation of agricultural research in India
28.Costa Rican Guava
Costa Rican Guava, a tropical gem, enchants with its rich flavor and vibrant essence. Grown in the lush landscapes of Costa Rica, this guava variety showcases a delectable combination of sweetness and a hint of tropical tang. Savor the exotic taste of Costa Rican Guava, a tropical delight that transports your taste buds to sun-kissed orchards.
29.Bangkok Guava
Bangkok Guava, a tropical sensation, captures hearts with its sweet and aromatic allure. Thriving in the vibrant city of Bangkok, this guava variety is known for its juicy texture and delightful taste. Indulge in the exotic essence of Bangkok Guava, a tropical treat that mirrors the energy and flavors of this bustling metropolis.
30.Cherry guavas
Cherry Guavas, petite and bursting with flavor, redefine the guava experience with their miniature charm. Cherry guavas are a dwarf, shrubby variety of guava, reaching only 2-3 feet tall at maturity. These little wonders, resembling cherries, pack a punch of sweetness and tartness in every bite. Elevate your fruit enjoyment with Cherry Guavas, a delightful twist on the classic guava, perfect for snacking or culinary adventures.
31.Supafrica Guava
Supafrica is a superior guava cultivar developed in South Africa known for its productivity and excellent fruit quality. This variety produces large round fruits with smooth green skin that ripens to yellow, enclosing tender white flesh with a sweet floral flavor. The Supafrica guava performs well even in marginal climate areas, making it a popular commercial variety in some African countries.
33.Mitha guava
Mitha is a deliciously sweet guava cultivar that was developed by horticulturists in West Bengal, India. This variety bears oval-shaped green skinned fruit that ripens to a golden yellow color with tender white flesh and only a few small seeds. Mitha guava plants yield good crops annually and the fruit is well suited for eating fresh due to its highly sweet, pleasant flavor.
33.Beaumont Guava
The Beaumont guava is a variety of guava tree that produces medium-sized, pink, sweet, and juicy fruits. The trees are productive and can bear fruit in the fall and sometimes through winter.
Conclusion:
The world of guavas extends far beyond the common varieties found in local markets, offering a rich tapestry of flavors, colors, and textures across 33 distinct cultivars. From the coconut-flavored Behat Coconut Guava to the seedless Thai variety, each type brings its unique characteristics to the table. As global production continues to rise, with countries like India and China leading the way, these versatile fruits remain a valuable source of nutrition and culinary inspiration. Whether enjoyed fresh, processed into products, or used in cooking, guavas continue to captivate fruit enthusiasts and farmers alike with their diversity and adaptability to various tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a guava
Guava is a tropical fruit from the Myrtaceae family (Psidium) known for its sweet, aromatic flavor. It typically has green or yellowish skin with flesh ranging from white to pink, containing small seeds and varying textures from crisp to creamy.
Which country produces the most guavas?
India leads global guava production with over 4 million metric tons annually
What are the most popular guava varieties?
Some of the most popular varieties include Mexican Cream Guava, Strawberry Guava, Allahabad Safeda, Ruby Supreme, and Thai Maroon Guava. Each offers unique flavors and characteristics.
What are the nutritional benefits of guava?
Guavas are rich in vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants. They support immune system health, promote digestive health, and can enhance skin health.
How can guavas be consumed?
Guavas can be eaten fresh (sliced or scooped), used in desserts, made into juices, jams, and preserves, or incorporated into various culinary applications.
Contents
- 1 What is a guava?
- 2 33 Varieties Of Guavas
- 3 1. Mexican Cream guava
- 4 2. Strawberry guava
- 5 3. Tropical White Guava
- 6 4.Allahabad Safeda
- 7 5.Ruby Supreme guava
- 8 6.Red Malaysian Guava
- 9 7.Pineapple Guava
- 10 8.Lalit Guava
- 11 9.Behat Coconut Guava
- 12 10.Hong Kong Pink Guava
- 13 World production of guava
- 14 11.Apple guava
- 15 12.Fan Retief guava
- 16 13.Lemon Guava
- 17 14. Guinea guava
- 18 15.Thai Maroon Guava
- 19 Variegated Guava
- 20 17.Harijha guava
- 21 18.Lucknow 49 Guava
- 22 19.Grape guava
- 23 20.Red Indian Guava
- 24 Worldwide Guava Production Trends (tons)
- 25 21.Ahmedabad Pink Guava
- 26 22.Chittidar Guava
- 27 23.Safeda Lucknow Guava
- 28 24.Pearl guava
- 29 25.Banarasi guava
- 30 26.Seedless Thai Guava
- 31 27.Arka Mridula
- 32 28.Costa Rican Guava
- 33 29.Bangkok Guava
- 34 30.Cherry guavas
- 35 31.Supafrica Guava
- 36 33.Mitha guava
- 37 33.Beaumont Guava
- 38 Conclusion:
- 39 Frequently Asked Questions
- 40 What is a guava
- 41 Which country produces the most guavas?
- 42 What are the most popular guava varieties?
- 43 What are the nutritional benefits of guava?
- 44 How can guavas be consumed?
