Myrcianthes fragrans aka Twinberry

Myrcianthes fragrans, or guayabillo, belongs to the myrtle family. This evergreen shrub or tree grows across tropical America. Its native range reaches from Florida through Mexico and Central America. It also spans the Caribbean and parts of northern South America. It grows in wet forest, cloud forest and oak forest. Forest loss threatens some local stands. Useful Tropical Plants reports a 2019 IUCN rating of Least Concern.

The plant forms a compact crown and varies in size. The source lists a height of 13 feet [4 metres]. Its broader account places most trees below 49 feet [15 metres]. Exceptional trees can reach 98 feet [30 metres]. The evidence gives no clear garden height range. Reddish bark peels away, adding interest beyond the flowers. The small, deep green leaves have a glossy surface. Their oils give off a scent like nutmeg. Leaf size and shape vary across the species’ range. Hair cover on young twigs and flowers varies too.

The white flowers have a scent and attract insect pollinators. Bees and butterflies are among the visitors. Flowers and fruit can appear throughout the year. Round berries turn orange to red as they ripen. Each measures about 0.02–0.05 feet [0.006–0.015 metres] across. The fruit holds two or more seeds. People eat the berries raw and use them for brandy. Taste ranges from bitter or tart to sweet when ripe. Some fruit leaves a taste like turpentine. People also brew a scented tea from the leaves.

This plant grows in both subtropical and tropical settings. It accepts full sun through fairly deep shade. It grows in soils ranging from mildly acid to alkaline. It tolerates some salt in the ground and withstands drought well. It can also cope with brief periods of waterlogged soil. Short cold spells near 25°F [−4°C] have caused no harm. This does not establish tolerance of long, hard freezes. Gardeners grow it for flowers, fruit, bark and evergreen leaves.

Local people gather it for food, medicine and useful materials. Traditional uses include remedies for fever, flu and several pains. Leaf extracts have shown promising action against bacteria. These reports do not establish safe or effective medical treatment. The scented plant also serves as a source of perfume. Its hard, heavy wood supplies tools and building material. The source reports no known hazards. It provides no specific evidence about pet safety, pests or diseases.