NQ DRY TROPICS WEED FREE pg . 25
YELLOW GUAVA
Psidium guajava
DESCRIPTION
Yellow guava is a small tree which grows up to 10 metres tall . It has spreading branches , and characteristic smooth copper coloured bark which flakes away to reveal the pale green layer beneath .
Leaves are wide green and oblong in shape , leathery , aromatic when crushed and downy on the underside . The veins are strongly indented on the top side . Leaf dimensions are 7 to 15 centimetres long and 3 to 5 centimetres wide .
Flowers are creamy white , and shed their petals to leave a tuft of yellowtipped stamens .
Fruit are rounded , have yellow skins when ripe , with pinkish-red flesh , and can be between 5 to 10 centimetres long .
Habitat it grows along watercourses in coastal belts .
Weed characteristics it plays host to the papaya fruit fly . It is known to form dense stands to choke out other plants .
Dispersal its seeds are distributed by birds , mammals , livestock and people
BIOSECURITY STATUS
This species is not listed under Queensland Legislation however control is highly recommended .
HOW TO ACT
Basal barking is an effective treatment for this weed . Care must be taken as this plant can regrow from cut stumps and can sucker a long way from the main plant . Any regrowth can be treated using a follow up foliar spray or hand pulling of seedlings , taking care not to damage any native vegetation .
TREES YELLOW GUAVA