Rose Apple
Syzygium jambos
Also known as
Plum Rose, Roosappel (Afr.), Jambos (Afr.), Jambu mawar
Starr 080326-3711 Syzygium jambos by Forest & Kim Starr (CC BY 3.0)
Full Sun
Moderate care
Moderate watering
Half-hardy
10a
USDA zone
-1°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
8m | Max | 8m |
3m | Min | 3m |
Flowering
spring
summer
autumn
winter
This plant has a mild fragrance
More images of Rose Apple
Rose Apple Overview
Syzygium jambos is a large tropical shrub or tree species in the Myrtaceae family. It can produce numerous fruits once fully established. The showy, fluffy cream-white flowers have a huge source of nectar, which makes it a great attraction to numerous beneficial insects, birds and other wildlife. Once fully grown, this plant forms a wide canopy and requires a large amount of space, making it a perfect choice to grow in large gardens.
Common problems with Rose Apple
The rose apple has only a few insect enemies but has more diseases that affect it. From sooty mould, algal leaf spot, root rot and anthracnose seem to be the main threats to its productivity. A simple preventative measure would be to plant in a sandy soil.
How to harvest Rose Apple
Harvest the fruit when they are fresh and ripe (when they turn to a brighter colour).
How to propagate Rose Apple
Seed
Seeds can be sown during warm months at a depth of 2 cm and space them 30 to 50 cm apart.
Cuttings
You can propagate from fresh seeds in the spring or cuttings in the summer.
Special features of Rose Apple
Attracts birds
Small nectar drinking birds are attracted to the fowers.
Attracts useful insects
This species attracts multiple beneficial insects.
Attractive flowers
Other uses of Rose Apple
Grown for their overall appearance.
Edible
The fruits are eaten fresh or preserved. Fruits spoil quickly and need to be consumed soon after harvest. Some people stuff the hollow insides and bake for a tasty dessert.
