A plant, Psidium guajava, of tropical America that has long been in cultivation. It is a shrub or low tree which belongs to the myrtle family (Myrtaceae). The fruit (see illus.) is a berry, yellow when ripe, and quite variable in size depending on variety and growing conditions, the average being about 2½ in. (7.2 cm) long. The guava is quite aromatic, sweet, and juicy. It is used mostly for jellies and preserves, but also as a fresh fruit.