Syzygium jambos aka Jambos

Syzygium jambos, or rose apple, is in the myrtle family. This family has the name Myrtaceae. Its native range spans southern Yunnan in China and western Malesia. People also call it jambu, Malabar plum, and pomarosa. It grows in wet tropical lands, often near streams. People have grown this tree for about 2,500 years. They use its fruit and make traditional medicines from it. It also yields goods for local use.

This evergreen tree grows about 20–33 feet [6–10 metres] tall. Its broad branches form a dense crown with an even outline. The trunk often splits near the ground. It can reach about 1.6 feet [0.5 metres] across. Dark green leaves and cream flowers give it garden value. Growers plant it for its looks and as a hedge. It grows at a moderate rate.

Bees and other insects pollinate the flowers, moving their pollen. The tree can also use its own pollen to set fruit. The sweet fruit has crisp flesh and a rose-like scent. Its flesh ranges from slightly juicy to very juicy. People eat it fresh or cook it in jams and jellies. It also gives puddings and custards a rose flavour. Some cooks fill its hollow centre, then bake the fruit. The picked fruit bruises with ease and then loses its crunch.

Rose apple grows best in tropical or near-tropical climates. It fruits best in humid places but grows in drier ones too. It needs enough water in the soil through dry seasons. Near its climate limits, strong growth may not lead to fruit. Mature trees may live through brief cold spells near 27°F [−3°C]. Young plants need some shade and do not transplant well. Use fresh seed, as it soon loses the chance to sprout. Growers can also raise plants through air layering.

The leaves yield an essential oil for use in perfume. The bark yields tannin and a brown dye. People weave the bendy branches into baskets and other goods. Several parts have uses in traditional medicine. These reports do not prove that such treatments are safe. Reports warn that the seeds are poisonous. The roots also carry a poison warning. Reports note hydrocyanic acid in roots, stems, and leaves. These warnings differ from the recorded food use of the fruit. Useful Tropical Plants gives its 2019 IUCN status as Least Concern.