Allow me to introduce you to one of our backyard fruit darlings – the Watery Rose Apple. In the Philippines, we call it Tambis. It grows quite well only to low altitudes in the tropics and in areas where rainfall is fairly well-spaced throughout the year.
Experts from the Purdue University College of Agriculture say it originated from India, making it’s way to Malaysia and on to other tropical Southeast Asian countries. It’s scientific name is Syzygium aqueum Alst. (syn Eugenia aquea Burm. f.).
How it is used
The Watery Rose Apple has a medicinal use by applying a decoction of its astringent bark on thrush (Morton, 1987). Also, its fruit tree’s wood can be used for small handicraft items.
In our home, we eat the fruit raw, or my mother makes a refreshing Watery Rose Apple juice. The drink is sooo delicious and sweet!! Below are some luscious photos of Tambis plucked fresh from our backyard, and the juice as well.
Comment below and share with us your favorite luscious fruit concoction/recipe.
Reference: Morton, J. 1987. Water Apple. p. 382–383. In: Fruits of warm climates. Julia F. Morton, Miami, FL. (Horticulture and Landscape Architecture, College of Agriculture, Purdue University)
Original Photos © May Gordoncillo
