About
Syzygium jambos, the rose apple, is a spreading, evergreen tree producing lance-shaped, glossy, dark green leaves and fluffy, creamy-white flowers, followed by pale yellow, rose-scented, edible fruit in summer. An ornamental and productive choice for a warm, frost-free garden.
About the genus
Syzygium is a large genus of evergreen trees and shrubs in the myrtle family, native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia. Species produce glossy leaves with colourful new growth, fluffy flowers, and fleshy, often edible berries, and are grown ornamentally in warm, frost-free conditions.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Sand, Loam
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing, East-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toEurope to Iran
FragranceFlower
ToxicityHarmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
Care notes
CultivationGrow in well-drained prefrably neutral to alkaline soil in full sun
PruningPrune in spring, trim any winter damaged foliage
PropagationPropagate by soft wood cuttings in early summer or semi ripe cuttings in mid summer. Rooted cuttings will need winter protection in a cool greenhouse or cold frame
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free