Malay Apple (Syzygium malaccense)
Curiosities
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Climate
The Malay apple is strictly tropical. In the United States it is too tender for Florida and California except under very unusual conditions.
Soil
The tree grows vigorously on a range of soil types from sand to heavy clay. It tolerates moderately acid soil, reacts unfavorably to highly alkaline situations. In India, it grows best on the banks of ponds, lakes and streams where there is good drainage and no standing water. In the United States It is reported to be one of the first trees to spring up in new lava flows in Hawaii.
Propagation
Malay apple seeds germinate readily. Many sprout on the ground under the tree. While seed propagation is common, superior types are multiplied by budding onto their own seedlings.
Pests and Diseases
Young Malay apple trees are frequently attacked by termites
Season
In Brazil, the tree may flower 2 or 3 times a year, in spring, summer and fall, the blooming season covering 40 to 60 days. The spring and fall flowering seasons produce the biggest crops. Fruits mature in 60 days from the full opening of the flowers and they fall quickly after they become fully ripe and deteriorate rapidly. For marketing, they must be hand-picked to avoid damage and to have longer shelf-life.
Yield
The yield varies from 48 to 188 lbs (21-85 kg) per tree.
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The Malay apple is strictly tropical. In the United States it is too tender for Florida and California except under very unusual conditions.
Soil
The tree grows vigorously on a range of soil types from sand to heavy clay. It tolerates moderately acid soil, reacts unfavorably to highly alkaline situations. In India, it grows best on the banks of ponds, lakes and streams where there is good drainage and no standing water. In the United States It is reported to be one of the first trees to spring up in new lava flows in Hawaii.
Propagation
Malay apple seeds germinate readily. Many sprout on the ground under the tree. While seed propagation is common, superior types are multiplied by budding onto their own seedlings.
Pests and Diseases
Young Malay apple trees are frequently attacked by termites
Season
In Brazil, the tree may flower 2 or 3 times a year, in spring, summer and fall, the blooming season covering 40 to 60 days. The spring and fall flowering seasons produce the biggest crops. Fruits mature in 60 days from the full opening of the flowers and they fall quickly after they become fully ripe and deteriorate rapidly. For marketing, they must be hand-picked to avoid damage and to have longer shelf-life.
Yield
The yield varies from 48 to 188 lbs (21-85 kg) per tree.
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