Acca sellowiana Apollo: Subtropical Flavor Growing in Sakarya

Sakarya is not in a subtropical climate zone. But there is a feijoa tree that has been growing trouble-free in our garden for 7 years. This is the result of an experiment: right variety, right site selection and a little courage.

The Apollo variety feijoa produces one of the most exciting fruits in our garden. Every autumn when that aromatic pineapple-guava scent spreads through the garden, it means the season has arrived. This year too the buds have formed, the fruits are growing. We're waiting eagerly.

Scientific Identity

Full name: Acca sellowiana. Family: Myrtaceae. Former scientific name: Feijoa sellowiana. Origin: South America, especially southern Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina. Common names: Feijoa, Pineapple Guava, Guavasteen. Variety: Apollo. Type: Evergreen medium-sized tree or large shrub.

Apollo Variety Characteristics

Apollo is one of the most popular feijoa varieties, developed in New Zealand. Produces large, oval fruits. Ripening period: October-November. Self-fertile, meaning no second tree needed for pollination, but yield increases if another variety is planted nearby. A mid-late ripening variety. Fruit flesh is creamy white, soft and very aromatic.

That Magnificent Spring Flowering

When feijoa blooms in spring the garden seems to stop. Flowers are red-white, almost exotic in appearance. Outer petals white, inside filled with deep red stamens and pistils. These flowers are edible. Can be added to fresh salads and dessert decorations. Slightly sweet, slightly tart aroma.

Beekeepers know feijoa flowers well. An important nectar and pollen source in April and May.

That Aromatic Fruit

The easiest way to describe feijoa fruit: a mix of pineapple, guava and mint. But even that doesn't fully capture it. That scent is so unique that when you first taste it you don't know what it is, then you can't give it up.

The fruit can be halved and eaten with a spoon or peeled and eaten fresh. Can be used in smoothies, jam, compote, sorbet and even fermented beverages. At peak ripeness the stem breaks and the fruit drops to the ground. This is the sign of the right harvest time.

7 Years in Sakarya

This data is very important. Feijoa is typically grown in USDA zones 8-11. Sakarya falls in this zone, but winter frosts can sometimes be heavy. The Apollo variety is hardy to -10 to -12 degrees. In our garden there has been no problem for 7 years.

Right site selection is critical. A position sheltered from north winds and receiving warmth from the south. Our tree is exactly in this position. Cold hardiness can vary greatly from location to location, hard to know without trying. We tried, it worked.

Permaculture Value

Acca sellowiana is very valuable for a permaculture garden. Evergreen leaves provide four-season aesthetics. Spring flowers provide nectar for bees and insects. Fruits are attractive to wildlife too. Medium size form suitable for second tier in layered garden design. Low maintenance, high yield.

How to Grow It

Sun-loving, grows in full sun or partial shade. Choose a spot sheltered from north winds. Well-draining, slightly acidic soil ideal. Chlorosis can occur in calcareous soils, use soil acidifier. Regular watering, especially during fruit fill period. Pruning minimal, aim for open and airy crown structure. Fertilization: Balanced organic fertilizer in spring is sufficient.

If your climate is suitable, try an Apollo feijoa. Exotic flowers in spring, unique aroma in autumn. And once established it yields for years. Our tree is the most beautiful proof of this.