Ugni molinae

Also Known As

Chilean Cranberry
Chilean Guava

Plant type

shrub

size

H: 3'-8'
W: 2'-8'

planting zones

8a-10a

More Options

Ugni molinae plant details

Ugni molinae is a broadleaf evergreen shrub with green foliage. In spring and summer cream, pink and white flowers emerge followed by red fruit. Features glossy texture. Grows well with sun - mostly shade and even moisture - low water. Drought tolerant once established. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in average, clay, gritty, rich and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Ugni molinae

Plant type: shrub
Plant family: myrtaceae
Foliage: evergreen green
Mature size: 2 FT - 8 FT - wide, 3 FT - 8 FT - tall
Flowers: cream, pink and white blooms in spring and summer
Uses: compact, container plant, edible, year round interest

GROWING CONDITIONS for Ugni molinae

USDA Zones: 8a - 10a
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: even moisture - low
Resistant to: deer
Soil needs: average, clay, gritty, rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Chilean Guava, commonly known as Strawberry Myrtle, Murta, or Murtilla, is a fruit producing shrub native to the Andes of Southern Chile and Argentina. Staying compact, Chilean Guava usually grows no larger than 6 feet in height and width and responds very well to hedging. The fruit is edible and delicious; purported to be Queen Victoria’s favorite fruit after it was introduced to England in the 19th century. In its native land, the fruit is valued fresh, in jams, and in the traditional liqueur Murtado. Evergreen, lanceolate foliage is a deep green, adorned by white, pendulous flowers in early summer. Flowers are followed by blueberry sized fruit that with an intense flavor like strawberry and watermelon with an aromatic quality. This is a must have plant for the sheltered garden, consistent moisture is appreciated. Cold hardy to USDA zone 8a and above, or to 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

By: Wanderlust Nursery

Zn 8. Fragrant bell-shaped flowerd.Evergreen shrub

By: Little Prince of Oregon

This evergreen shrub belonging to the Myrtaceae family occurs across much of central and southern Chile, where it is quite common in some areas. Although thicket-forming in the wild, it is quite well-behaved in cultivation, forming an appealing 3' x 3' shrub in sun or partial shade. Its virtues include bronzy-red new growth, “cute” flowers and quite tasty dark fruits that can be eaten raw or used in jams and such. Hardiness varies from about 10-15 °F: good drainage seems to make a difference. South America

By: The Desert Northwest

Are you weary of common hedges? Let me introduce you to Ugni molinae, a must-have plant of myriad virtues! Handsome, densely leafy & forest green foliage with bronzy new growth sets the stage for exquisitely fragrant tiny white bell shaped flowers in Spring. These mature to deep red fruits that are beautiful & uniquely tasty. When picked early they have a bit of a pine flavor (still good!) but allow them to stay on the bush into Fall & they become even more delicious & strawberry-esque. Reportedly, the fruit was Queen Victoria’s favorite & makes a divine jam. Grows from 1-6’ tall & 1-3’ wide – pruning will decide its ultimate shape, so really it’s up to you. Not the fastest grower, but beautiful even while small & totally pest free. Easy in a large container, or as in informal (or even formal!) hedge. The leaves are also used as tea & roasted seeds can be used as a coffee substitute.