Ugni molinae 'Ka-Pow' (syn. Kapow)

 Chilean Guava 'Ka-Pow' Myrtaceae

A particularly desirable selection of the wonderfully aromatic Chilean guava, Ugni molinae ‘Ka-Pow’ is a UK-bred form selected for its larger fruit, earlier cropping and exceptional flavour. It retains all the qualities that make the species such an appealing edible evergreen: dense, glossy foliage, attractive soft-pink to white bell-shaped flowers and intensely aromatic berries, but produces larger fruits and crops at a younger age than typical forms. 

The fruits are the real attraction. Ripening to red or reddish-purple, they have a remarkably complex flavour—sweet, intensely aromatic and often described as reminiscent of wild strawberries, guava and even bubblegum, with a pleasantly resinous character. They are excellent eaten straight from the plant and can also be used for jams, jellies, desserts and drinks. 

‘Ka-Pow’ was named by the well-known ethnobotanist, broadcaster and writer James Wong, who helped bring Chilean guava to a much wider gardening audience through his advocacy of unusual edible plants. Contemporary nursery literature identifies it as a British-bred selection named by Wong. 

The plant itself is an attractive evergreen shrub, with small, leathery, dark-green leaves and lightly fragrant flowers in late spring and early summer. The fruit follows in late summer and autumn. It makes an excellent edible hedge or specimen shrub, and its dense habit also gives it ornamental value well beyond its usefulness as a fruit crop. 

Like the species, it is somewhat borderline hardy and benefits from a sheltered position, particularly protection from cold, drying winds and severe frost. The RHS currently rates it H4 (−10 to −5°C). In Britain it is best grown in sun or partial shade in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil. 

Height: 1–1.5m
Spread: 0.5–1m
Flowering: Late spring–early summer
Fruiting: Late summer–autumn
Hardiness: RHS H4 (−10 to −5°C)
Aspect: Sun or partial shade
Soil: Moist but well drained
Origin: UK selection of Chilean Ugni molinae

Introduction: A British-bred selection of Ugni molinae, named by James Wong and introduced to the horticultural trade as ‘Ka-Pow’. It is distinguished from ordinary Chilean guava by its larger fruit and ability to crop at a younger age.