The Guava tree is a semi-evergreen tree or shrub, which loses all of its leaves for a short period of time, during which new sprouts emerge. The tree only grows between 6 to 25 feet high.

The branches are very strong and tolerant to high winds. This makes it tough for gardeners to graft branches of the tree. It can be cultivated only through seed propagation. However, newer varieties can also be propagated through the leaves and roots.

A distinctive feature of the tree is its coppery bark peeling off the pale, bony stem. It has beautiful, white, fragrant flowers. Guavas are green or yellow on the outside and pink or cream-coloured on the inside.

Guava is an excellent source of vitamin C, iron, calcium and phosphorus.