Syzygium sp. Sulawesi

Syzygium is a large genus with over 1200 species in the myrtle family (Myrtaceae). Some members are known for their edible fruits, such as the rose apple ( Syzygium jambos ) or the jambul tree ( Syzygium cumini ). However, most species are economically insignificant and are practically never cultivated. Hopefully, this will soon change, because some members are absolutely spectacular!

The species offered here, which is currently unidentified, is characterized by strikingly narrow, long leaves with sunken veins, giving them a ribbed appearance similar to Anthurium veitchii . As already mentioned, Syzygium are trees! This plant grows with an upright, woody trunk and branches out . The leaves reach a length of approximately 50 to 70 cm, or perhaps even larger. There are only a few pictures of larger specimens in nature, and only young plants are currently available in cultivation. Therefore, we cannot yet make any precise statements about the final size of the leaves. Many Syzygium species found in the undergrowth remain surprisingly small (for a tree). Syzygium sp. Sulawesi is one such species and will probably not grow much taller than 3 meters.

The young leaves have an almost unnatural-looking red to pink hue and only turn green after a few weeks. The leaves feel leathery and are surprisingly robust. We suspect that larger specimens could thrive well in normal room humidity after an acclimatization period. However, we haven't tested this yet.

Like most Syzygium species , Syzygium sp. Sulawesi is cauliflorous (stem-flowering). The flowers, and later fruits, appear directly on the stem.



You will receive a young plant in a 7cm square pot, approximately 5 to 9cm tall with several pairs of leaves. See pictures 2 to 4 in the gallery. Please be sure to grow it in a protected environment (grow tent, terrarium, etc.) and do not simply place it in your home!