Locally this fruit is simply called an apple, but localized names being void of a systematic naming structure can be a bit contradictory as evident here. The scientific name for the Otaheite apple is Syzygium malaccense but it is widely known in other territory has Malay apple, mountain apple and Otaheite apple. The term Otaheite apple is often used locally for the purpose of distinguishing it from “foreign apple” (Malus domestica). While these fruits are referred to both as apples, they are actually very distant in phytologic relation. They are not only of deferent genus; they are of deferent family group has reflected in their respective scientific names. Otaheite is of family group Myrtaceae and genus Syzgium while apples (Malus domestica) are of the Rosaceae family and genus Malus.
Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Family: Rosaceae
The tree presents with broad glossy green leaves and relatively soft light textured bark.
It bears annually the Otaheite apple but preceding this, the tree is first decorated by the radiant pink blossoms that it produces. Once these blossoms arrive insects such as bees are not very far behind, they are attracted by the flowers’ nectar which they feed on. As they are being busy collecting nectar, they inadvertently pollinate the flowers and harmlessly knock to the ground the many stamens of the fertilized flowers.
Unripen, the Otaheite apple is light green being almost white in appearance. Gradually has it ripen, the green tint gives way to a red tint which becomes more dominant and darker the riper the fruit become. The fruit is edible once it is a bright red colour but it is at full size and sweeter at darker shades of red.
