Which syzygium species has the best flavor?

[gunnar429]

I haven't tried many syzygium species, but the ones I have (Otaheite Apple, water apple, wax jambu) tasted have all been quite bland.  I don't mind refreshing if that also means it has some sweetness, and many of them seem to be quite ornamental.  Are there any that you consider "must-haves"?

[bsbullie]

I haven't tried many syzygium species, but the ones I have (Otaheite Apple, water apple, wax jambu) tasted have all been quite bland.  I don't mind refreshing if that also means it has some sweetness, and many of them seem to be quite ornamental.  Are there any that you consider "must-haves"?

There are some very good Malay Apples and I have had a couple Wax Jambu that were also very good.  Are any of them "must haves"....with limited land I would say no.

[gunnar429]

so, these very good malay apples, are they propagated?  Seems like we are lacking in selected varieties.  Do you know of any trees that produce fruit that are very good?

[BrianL]

As far as flavor Rose Apple had the most intense flavor in that group.  Still a minor fruit though.

[From the sea]

Clove has the most flavor of the Syzgium I have tried.

[gunnar429]

As far as flavor Rose Apple had the most intense flavor in that group.  Still a minor fruit though.

Funny you say that,  I like rose apples....agreed on the minor fruit aspect though

[BrianL]

I had some really intensley flavored rose apples this summer.  I could eat a few everyday if I had them available.  Wax Jambu wasn't that flavorful.  Never had Clove.  Others have been sweet with some astringent, but I wouldn't say much flavor.

[CGameProgrammer]

I've had plenty of very sweet wax jambu; one cultivar tends to taste like honey and another is similar to green apple. You need a good variety, it must be fully ripe which means almost ready to drop off, and I've been told reducing the irrigation somewhat results in sweeter fruits. But full ripeness is key; for example the red varieties turn pink/red about a month before they're actually fully ripe.