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Description
Syzygium Guineense, also known as the Waterberry tree or African Waterberry, is a small to medium-sized tree that can reach up to 20 meters in height. It is native to several African countries, including Angola, Botswana, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The tree is well-known for its edible fruits, which are commonly consumed by humans and animals alike.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Syzygium |
Appearance
The Syzygium Guineense tree has a smooth, grey bark and a dense crown of leaves that are shiny and dark green in color. The leaves are opposite, elliptical or oblong in shape, and can grow up to 8 cm long and 3 cm wide. The tree produces small white flowers that are about 5 mm in diameter, which are followed by the edible fruits that are about 1 cm in diameter. The fruits are initially green, but turn red or purple when ripe.
Care Guide
Syzygium Guineense is a hardy tree that can adapt well to different growing conditions. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:- Water: The tree can tolerate periods of drought, but it grows best in moist soil. Water the tree regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer to the tree once a year in early spring.- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils.- Sunlight: The tree can grow in full sun or partial shade, but it prefers a location with some shade during the hottest part of the day.- Hardiness Zones: The tree can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Syzygium Guineense is generally a healthy tree that is not prone to many pests or diseases. However, here are some problems that may occur:- Fruit fly: The fruit fly can damage the fruits of the tree. To prevent this, cover the fruit with bags or nets.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and apply a fungicide.- Root rot: This disease can occur in poorly drained soils. Improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Habitat
Syzygium Guineense is a versatile tree that can grow in various habitats, from wetlands and riverbanks to savannas and woodlands. It prefers a warm climate and grows best in areas with an average annual rainfall of 800 to 1200 mm.
Question and Answer
Q: Are the fruits of Syzygium Guineense edible?
A: Yes, the fruits are edible and are commonly consumed by humans and animals.
Q: Is Syzygium Guineense a fast-growing tree?
A: No, it is a slow-growing tree that can take several years to reach maturity.
Q: Can Syzygium Guineense tolerate drought?
A: Yes, the tree is drought-tolerant, but it grows best in moist soil.
Q: Is Syzygium Guineense a common ornamental tree?
A: No, it is not commonly used as an ornamental tree, but it has potential as a fruit tree.
Related Plants
– Syzygium Aromaticum (Clove)- Syzygium Cumini (Java Plum)- Syzygium Paniculatum (Australian Brush Cherry)- Syzygium Samarangense (Wax Jambu)
References
– “Syzygium guineense.” PlantZAfrica, National Botanical Institute, 2003, www.plantzafrica.com/plantqrs/syzyggui.htm.- “Syzygium guineense (Willd.) DC.” GBIF, Global Biodiversity Information Facility, 2021, www.gbif.org/species/3156205.- “Syzygium guineense.” Useful Tropical Plants Database, Ken Fern, 2014, tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Syzygium+guineense.
