Culture
Best grown in evenly moist, loamy, well-draining soils in full sun. Tolerates a wide range of soil types including heavy clay and sand. This plant is intolerant of frost, and is hardy in tropical Zones warmer than 12.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Syzygium malaccense, commonly called Malaysian apple or Malay apple, is a medium to large sized evergreen tree native to the forested lowlands of Malaysia. It is common in cultivation throughout the tropics, and has become naturalized in some areas. The foliage is dark green and glossy, elliptic in shape, and can reach up to 9" long and 3" wide. Clusters of bright red flowers bloom seasonally on the woody branches and stems and are attractive to hummingbirds. The flowers are followed by obovoid to bell-shaped, waxy red fruits with crisp, white flesh that reach around 2-3" in diameter. This vigorous grower will reach up to 50' tall with a 30' spread and takes on an upright, conical to cylindrical shape.
Genus name comes from the Greek word syzygos meaning "joined" with reference to the paired leaves and branchlets of a Jamaican species (Calyptranthes suzygium) for which the name was used originally.
The specific epithet malaccense comes from Malacca, the name of a region in Malaysia
Problems
Leaf miners and borers have been reported as possible pests. Otherwise relatively free of pests and diseases.
Uses
Typically grown for its somewhat sweet, edible fruit which can be eaten raw or cooked. The fruit can also be used to make wine. Although it is not grown commercially, they can be found locally at produce markets. This plant also has a number of traditional medical uses.