This low-growing tree with its bright evergreen foliage, is not common in Hawaii. The flowers are small, deep crimson, and appear on the branches either singly or in bunches. The contrast between these brilliant flowers and the fresh green leaves makes a very beautiful sight when the tree is in full bloom. The fruit, which ripens in July, appears in clusters; it is the same shape as that of the preceding variety, but in color it is a bright scarlet. It contains from 1 to 3 seeds, which are somewhat difficult to germinate. The fruit is crisp, watery, and has a sub-acid flavor.
Plate XI.—Water Apple.
One third natural size.
G. P. W. Collection. [Plate XII]
Eugenia Jambos.
ROSE APPLE.
This evergreen tree, which is a native of the West Indies, is of medium size, reaching a height of from 20 to 30 feet. It grows well in Hawaii, and is found at an elevation of 2000 feet. It is propagated from seed, as well as from cuttings of the ripe wood. The leaves are lanceolate, acuminate, thick and shiny. The large, fluffy flowers which appear from January until April, are produced freely, and are a beautiful creamy-white. The fruit is a somewhat compressed, globular shell, varying in size from 1 to 2 inches in diameter, and with a large cavity, containing generally one seed. This shell, which is the edible portion of the fruit, is a light creamy-yellow, with a tinge of pale-pink on one side; it requires from 2 to 2½ months to mature. It is firm, crisp, and has a delicious flavor, somewhat resembling an apricot, and with a rose odor. The season for the fruit varies according to the elevation, but generally ends about August or September.