Syzygium aqueum aka Watery Rose Apple

Syzygium aqueum is an evergreen tree that bears fruit. It belongs to the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. Common names include water apple and water rose-apple. Its native range spans the Nicobar Islands to northern Queensland. In Australia, it grows under taller trees in seasonal forests. These include monsoon forests and woods along streams. People also grow it for fruit in home gardens.

Most trees reach 20–33 feet [6–10 metres], with a small crown. Some grow to 49 feet [15 metres]. Rare trees in New Guinea reach 89 feet [27 metres]. The trunk tends to branch near the ground. It seldom grows more than one foot [0.3 metres] across. The largest trees can form buttresses, or supports, at their base. People plant this tree next to paths and driveways. Larger trees sometimes yield hard, reddish wood for local building work.

Bees, butterflies and flies carry pollen between the flowers. The tree is self-fertile: it can set fruit with its own pollen. It can bloom and bear fruit several times a year. The bell-shaped fruit is about 0.08 feet [0.025 metres] across. Its flesh is crisp, juicy and mild, with some sweetness. People eat it fresh or use it to make syrup. Some fruit has no seeds. Its thin, tender skin limits its worth as a cash crop. Still, sellers offer it in local markets. People also slice good fruit into salads.

This tree suits moist tropical lowlands and places with long dry seasons. It cannot stand cold below freezing. It prefers light soil that drains well and is slightly acidic. It can also grow well in poor, alkaline soil. It needs a steady water supply, though it prefers a dry season. People often plant it near ponds or streams. Trees grown from seed first bear after about seven or eight years. Air-layered plants can bear after three or four years.

Sow fresh seed soon, as it soon loses its power to sprout. Cuttings take root with ease. Air layering is another way to grow new plants. Useful Tropical Plants lists no known hazards. This does not prove safety for every use or animal. Folk remedies use the leaves for several ills, including stomach problems. Some parts have shown antibiotic effects, but this does not prove treatment safety. Tannins make some parts astringent, which means they tighten tissue.