Syzygium jambos (Rose Apple)

Native to southern China and Southeast Asia, this evergreen tree in the myrtle family grows about 25 to 50 feet tall. It has narrow, leathery leaves and cream to pale yellow flowers about 2 inches across, with numerous long stamens. The edible fruits are white or pale yellow, sometimes tinged with pink, and have a rose-like scent. Each fruit usually contains one large seed. It is widely cultivated in tropical regions for its fruit. It has naturalized in Zanzibar, Tanzania, and is invasive in Hawaii, United States. It is also invasive in Puerto Rico, where dense populations alter forest composition and are associated with lower plant diversity. Propagation is by seed, grafting, or air layering. Photographed in Bogotá, Colombia.