Java apple, wax apple
Family Myrtaceae
Eugenia javanica (= Syzygium aqueum), the Java apple or wax apple (E. javanica 1), is an evergreen tree, up to 20 m high, with opposite ovoid-elliptical dark green and leathery leaves. The creamy white flowers are borne in terminal or axillary clusters of 3-7, each flower with numerous stamens. The fruits are pear- or bell-shaped berries with a waxy surface and persistent style on the top, white (E. javanica 2) or red (E. javanica 3) in colour, 5-7 cm across, and with longitudinal furrows.
Distribution and use
The sourish white and spongy flesh (E. javanica 4) is eaten fresh or used in salads. The Java apple is a native of Southeast Asia (E. javanica 5) and has now spread throughout the tropics.