Feijoa

Feijoas have a delicious and very distinctive flavor—unusual and complex, with hints of pineapple, guava, and eucalyptus; it is unquestionably tropical. Just picking up the fruit and smelling its perfume tells you this is something out of the ordinary. The feijoa not only bears delicious fruit but it is an attractive addition to the garden. The leaves are dark green on top, with a silvery hue underneath. In spring, the shrub is full of flowers that have scarlet stamens. The petals of the feijoa flower measure up to 1½ inches (3.7 cm) across. They are pinkish white on the outside and deep pink within. These somewhat fleshy petals have an incredibly sweet tropical flavor all their own. They can be used as a dessert garnish and make a handsome addition to a fruit salad. Provided the petals are removed with care, the remaining flower may still develop into a fruit.