With a few common names Syzygium aqueum is variously called the Water Rose Apple and also Wax Jambu. The fruit is mild sweet and watery.
You will not see the fruit offered for sale readily as it does not transport well, this makes it difficult to grow as a commercial crop.
Plant Profile and Growing Hints
A small evergreen tree that will reach around 7m in height, Syzygium aqueum is not a plant widely grown in Australia. It is a tropical species and will produce small glossy red fruit that are shaped a little like bells and appear in clusters.
The tree itself is open growing and will form a spreading shrub to small shade tree. This is a plant that requires moisture through the year and is not suited to areas with irregular rainfall unless irrigation can be used to supplement moisture.
In a good climate a single tree will fruit twice a year, and it is grown commercially for the fruit, however not in Australia. Fruit is eaten fresh and is also used in salads especially in Indonesia and India where it is widely grown.
The plant is a native to India, Indonesia Indonesia and Malaysia.
Care and growing conditions
This evergreen tree requires a moist tropical climate to be successfully grown.
A good fertile soil is required for successful cultivation.
The plant is nor drought tolerant and will also not tolerate frosts.
Propagation is from seed, although the seed does need to be fresh for good germination. Propagation is also possible or by layering.
From seed fruit production will take 6 – 8 years, faster fruiting from layered trees.
Syzygium aqueum Availability.
At time of publishing:Syzygium Aqueum is not readily available in Australian Nurseries.
Know of a supplier – Let us know.