Giant water gum, Francis' Water Gum
Syzygium francisii

Family: Myrtaceae

What it is like

A dense tree. It grows 24 m high and spreads 21 m wide. It can be taller and the trunk can be 1.5 m across. The trunk of the tree has buttresses. The bark is slightly flaky. It has a spreading crown. The branches are almost horizontal. Leaves are simple and opposite. They are 4-8 cm long. The leaves are dark green and leathery. They are oval and have a long point. They are glossy and have wavy edges. The flowers have cream stamens. The flowers are in panicles. The fruit are round and violet-purple.

Where it is found

A tropical and subtropical plant. It grows in rainforest and on fertile alluvial soils. In Melbourne Botanical Gardens. It suits hardiness zones 10-12.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The fruit is dry and not very palatable.

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

Plants grow easily from seed.

Its other names

Local names

Rose satinash

Synonyms

Eugenia francisii F. M. Bailey; Eugenia tomlinsonii Maiden & Betche;