Hortiforum

General Info – Cas, Costa Rican Guava, Cas Guava, Guayaba

The Cas is a wild, seldom cultivated, Guava native to Tropical Central America, particularly in Costa Rica, where it is highly cherished. The Cas produces petite fruits akin to Cherry Guava but possesses an intense acidity, rendering them sour when consumed alone. Due to their tartness, the fruits are frequently transformed into refreshing juices, becoming delightful once sweetened with sugar. Additionally, these fruits can be utilised to create preserves and jams.
Endemic to truly tropical regions, the Cas is generally less cold hardy than other Guavas, though it maintains a reasonable cold hardiness and reportedly withstands light frosts when mature. Thriving along riverbanks, the Cas thrives in full sun exposure and fertile, well-draining, moist soils. Cas Trees share a similar form and size with other Guava trees, capable of reaching a height of up to 10 metres, though they commonly remain smaller. When in good health, this evergreen tree boasts an appealing straight form and peeling bark. A Costa Rican favourite, much like the Cupuassu, the Cas imparts its robust acidity and flavour to create exceptional drinks and desserts.

Plant Profile/Properties