Ugni molinae 'Frampton Feast'

Chilean Guava 'Frampton Feast' Myrtaceae

A particularly interesting early-fruiting selection of Chilean guava, Ugni molinae, named and released by Pan Global Plants. It was selected from the many forms grown at the nursery specifically because it was the first to fruit, extending the normally rather short harvesting season of this exceptionally delicious fruit. 

An erect, bushy evergreen shrub to around 1.5m, it carries small, leathery, glossy leaves and produces particularly attractive waxy, soft-pink, fragrant bell-shaped flowers in summer. These are followed by mahogany-red berries, which are exceptionally sweet and aromatic, with the confectionery-like flavour characteristic of the finest Ugni selections. 

The fruits are excellent eaten fresh from the bush, but can also be used for jams, jellies, syrups, desserts and drinks. Ugni molinae has a long tradition as a gathered fruit in Chile, where it is known as murta or murtilla.

‘Frampton Feast’ is particularly useful in Britain because of its early fruiting, potentially allowing ripe berries to be harvested before later forms have begun to colour. It therefore makes a useful companion to later selections such as ‘Villarica Strawberry’, extending the period over which fresh Chilean guavas can be enjoyed.

The name ‘Frampton Feast’ refers to its origin and release from Pan Global Plants and its exceptional value as a fruiting plant—a feast of fruit from relatively modest-sized evergreen shrub. It is best grown in a warm, sheltered position, preferably against a wall in colder areas, as severe winter cold and drying winds can damage the evergreen foliage. 

Height: 1–1.5m
Spread: 1–1.5m
Flowering: June–August
Fruiting: Early autumn, potentially earlier than other forms
Hardiness: Approximately RHS H4 (−10 to −5°C); shelter recommended
Aspect: Sun or partial shade
Soil: Moist, fertile, well-drained
Origin: Pan Global Plants, UK

Edible: Mahogany-red berries with an intensely sweet, aromatic flavour likened to strawberry sweets; excellent fresh or used for preserves and desserts.