Photo credit: Michael Lemmon
Feijoa sellowiana
Commonly known as the Pineapple Guava, this fruit tree is very hardy and easy to grow. And it is in bloom right now at Baltimore's Rawlings Conservatory and Botanic Garden in Druid Hill Park.
It originates from Brazil and does well in a tropical environment but can be grown in containers in areas that have very cold winters. The evergreen leaves are a glossy blue green with a silvery underneath, making them a beautiful ornamental all year round. The leaves can be eaten and have a very sweet taste.
The flowers are a dark crimson with pink petals. Fruit can grow up to 3 inches, are a waxy green color, and have a pear-like shape. The taste is similar to a strawberry.