Syzygium cordatum

Syzygium cordatum

Syzygium cordatum, also known as the Waterberry or Umdoni, is a species of plant in the family Myrtaceae. It is native to southern Africa, where it is commonly found in forests, riverbanks, and coastal areas.

Description

Syzygium cordatum is a large, evergreen tree that can reach up to 20 meters in height. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped. The tree produces fragrant, white flowers that are followed by round, red fruits. The fruits are edible and have a sweet, slightly acidic taste.

Distribution and Habitat

Syzygium cordatum is native to southern Africa, including South Africa, Swaziland, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. It is commonly found in forests, riverbanks, and coastal areas. The tree prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.

Uses

The fruits of Syzygium cordatum are edible and are often eaten fresh or used to make jams and jellies. The wood is durable and is used for furniture and boat building. The tree is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.

Conservation Status

Syzygium cordatum is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like many other native African tree species, it is threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation and urban development.

See Also

• List of Syzygium species
• Flora of South Africa
• Traditional African medicine

References

• Syzygium cordatum in the PlantZAfrica.com database
• Syzygium cordatum in the Flora of Zimbabwe database
• Syzygium cordatum in the Flora of Mozambique database

External Links

• Syzygium cordatum on PlantZAfrica.com
• Syzygium cordatum on Flora of Zimbabwe
• Syzygium cordatum on Flora of Mozambique