Overview
Syzygium aqueum is a shrub, small tree tree in the genus Syzygium, part of the Myrtaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Syzygium aqueum grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include specimen plant and hedge.
About
Syzygium aqueum is an evergreen shrub to small tree in the Myrtaceae, grown as a specimen plant or for hedging. It prefers full sun in loam of neutral pH with good drainage and a sheltered, south-facing aspect. Hardiness is H4 (average for the UK), so a protected site gives best results. It flowers from July to September.
About the genus
Syzygium is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. The genus comprises about 1200 species, and has a native range that extends from Africa and Madagascar through southern Asia east through the Pacific. Its highest levels of diversity occur from Malaysia to northeastern Australia, where many species are very poorly known and many more have not been described taxonomically.
Wikipedia contributors, "Syzygium", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Syzygium
In the garden
Syzygium aqueum is an evergreen member of the Myrtaceae that carries a multi-stemmed shrub to small-tree habit and is most often used as a garden specimen or clipped screen. The genus Syzygium includes a number of ornamental trees; this species is planted where an evergreen outline and summer flowering are wanted. Site choice matters: place it in full sun on a loam-based soil with neutral pH and good drainage, and give it a south-facing, sheltered position. The H4 hardiness rating is classed as average in UK terms, so a location protected from cold northerly winds and late frosts will reduce stress on young wood and encourage reliable growth. Allow space for a specimen form or run a row for a dense hedge where evergreen structure is required through winter. Peak flowering occurs from July to September, providing a clear seasonal display; select a spot where those summer flowers are visible from a path or seating area to make the most of the plant’s presence.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Syzygium
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Syzygium aqueum size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Tree
- Habit
- Shrub, small tree
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Specimen plant, hedge
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Syzygium aqueum
- Propagation
- Semi-ripe cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Susceptible to scale insects
- Disease resistance
- Susceptible to honey fungus
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Syzygium aqueum?
Syzygium aqueum prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Syzygium aqueum need?
Syzygium aqueum grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Syzygium aqueum hardy in the UK?
Syzygium aqueum has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Syzygium aqueum?
Semi-ripe cuttings.
