Malabar Plum

(Syzygium jambos)

Malabar Plum (Syzygium jambos)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Syzygium jambos, commonly known as Malabar Plum or Rose Apple, is an evergreen tree or large shrub native to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, including regions such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It is adaptable to a range of habitats including secondary forests and coastal plains. This species typically reaches three to 15 meters in height and exhibits low branching with a dense, rounded crown. The leaves are glossy and lanceolate, contributing to the plant’s ornamental value.

The Malabar Plum is notable for its showy, white or greenish-white flowers that appear in small terminal clusters, with long, numerous stamens giving them a diameter of 5–8 cm. The blooming period occurs in the summer in temperate regions, and the flowers may be fragrant, depending on the individual plant. Following flowering, the tree produces edible fruits that resemble guavas in shape but are distinct in fragrance, flavor, and texture. The skin of the fruit is thin and waxy, and the ripe fruit emits a strong, pleasant floral aroma. In cultivation, the Malabar Plum is valued for its attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and edible fruit. It is used in tropical and subtropical landscapes for shade, as an ornamental specimen, and for fruit production. The tree thrives in full sun, requires medium amounts of water, and prefers soils with medium drainage. It is relatively easy to maintain, but gardeners should be aware of potential issues such as root rot in poorly drained soils and pests like fruit flies that may target the fruit.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 10-25 feet
  • Width: 10-20 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Hedges, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Tropical rainforests and secondary forests in Southeast Asia

Other Names

Common Names: Jambos, Rose-Apple, Malabar-Plum, Jamboes, Rosenapfelbaum, Manzana Rosa, Pomarrosa, Yambo, Jambosier, Pomme Rose

Scientific Names: , Eugenia jambos, Syzygium jambos, Eugenia malaccensis, Jambosa vulgaris, Eugenia jambosa, Syzygium jambos var. jambos, Syzygium merrillii, Eugenia vulgaris, Jambosa jambos

GBIF Accepted Name: Syzygium jambos (L.) Alston