The Malay Apple: A Tropical Fruit Tree
Have you ever heard of the Malay apple, also called the mountain apple? It’s a tropical fruit tree that produces a pear-shaped fruit with smooth, rose-colored skin and crisp white flesh. The Malay apple is native to Malaysia and is also cultivated in the Philippines, Vietnam, Bengal, and South India.
What is a Malay Apple Tree?
The Malay apple tree (Syzygium malaccense) is an evergreen tree with shiny leaves. It can grow up to 40 to 60 feet tall and has a trunk that can grow to 15 feet around. The shoots of the tree are a bright burgundy color when they are young, and they mature to a pinkish beige color.
The flowers of the Malay apple tree are showy and abundant. They grow in clusters on the upper trunk and mature branches. Each blossom has a funnel-like base topped by green sepals, pinkish-purple or red-orange petals, and numerous stamens.
Growing Malay Apple Trees
The Malay apple tree is a tropical tree, so it cannot be grown in cold climates. It needs a humid climate with at least 60 inches of rain per year. The tree is not picky about soil and will grow happily in anything from sand to heavy clay. However, it does not do well in highly alkaline soils.
If you are planting more than one Malay apple tree, space them between 26 to 32 feet apart. The trees need plenty of room to grow and produce fruit.
Malay Apple Tree Care
Caring for a Malay apple tree is relatively easy. The tree needs to be watered regularly, especially during dry weather. The area around the tree should be kept free of weeds.
The Malay apple tree is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by fruit flies and other insects. These pests can be controlled with organic or chemical insecticides.
Harvesting Malay Apples
The Malay apple fruit is ripe when it is soft to the touch and has a slightly sweet smell. The fruit can be eaten fresh, cooked, or processed into juice, jam, or jelly.
The Malay apple is a delicious and nutritious fruit that is easy to grow in tropical climates. With proper care, a Malay apple tree can produce fruit for many years.
FAQs
What is the difference between a Malay apple and a mountain apple?
The Malay apple and the mountain apple are the same fruit. The name “mountain apple” is more commonly used in the United States, while the name “Malay apple” is more commonly used in Southeast Asia.
Can Malay apple trees be grown in the United States?
Malay apple trees can only be grown in tropical climates. They cannot tolerate cold temperatures.
How long does it take for a Malay apple tree to bear fruit?
Malay apple trees typically begin to bear fruit 3 to 5 years after they are planted.
How long do Malay apples last?
Malay apples can be stored at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
What are the health benefits of Malay apples?
Malay apples are a good source of vitamins A and C. They also contain antioxidants, which can help to protect the body against damage from free radicals.
