Shrub layer · Evergreen fruiting shrub / small tree
Feijoa
Acca sellowiana
A tough, productive shrub or small tree widely grown across Aotearoa. Excellent for boundaries, wind reduction and reliable autumn kai.
Also known as: Feijoa, Pineapple guava
Layer
Shrub layer
Climate
Subtropical, Warm temperate, Temperate
Sun
Full sun to light shade; best fruit in full sun.
Water
Drought tolerant once established; water in dry spells for better fruit size.
Soil
Adaptable; prefers well-drained soil with organic matter.
Size
2–4 m H · 2–3.5 m W
Growth
Moderate
Frost
Tolerates moderate frost once established; young plants appreciate protection.
Edible uses
Fruit, Petals (mild, occasional use)
Harvest window
Autumn (typically March–May depending on region and cultivar)
Ecological functions
Windbreak / boundary · Flower nectar · Dense habitat structure
Wildlife value
Birds and bees visit flowers · Dense cover for small birds
Human uses
Fresh fruit · Preserves · Hedging
Propagation
Named cultivars from cuttings or grafted stock for consistent fruit. Seedlings vary.
Maintenance
Light tip pruning after harvest; thin crowded wood. Collect fallen fruit promptly.
NZ growing notes
One of the most forgiving fruiting shrubs for temperate NZ gardens. Cross-pollination between cultivars often improves crop. Ideal for narrow boundary plantings.
In the food forest
Feijoa is a workhorse shrub layer plant for boundaries and mixed fruit edges. Dense evergreen structure cuts wind for more tender neighbours while delivering reliable autumn fruit.
Establishment
Plant named cultivars in full sun with room to hedge or open as a small tree. Water the first summer. Tip-prune after harvest. Plant a second cultivar nearby for better set.
NZ honesty
Among the most honest fruit shrubs for NZ food forests from Northland into cooler temperate districts. Extreme inland frost still deserves protection for young plants.
Suitable NZ regions
Companion plants
References
- NZ gardening practice — Widely documented home-garden performance across temperate regions.