The water apple is a fruit native to the tropical areas of Southeast Asia. It is not only an apple with a peculiar shape but also has a unique texture and numerous health benefits.
By Ilaria Canevara
Its shape resembles that of a bell, its color that of an apple, and its texture that of a watermelon: we are talking about the water apple, a little-known tropical fruit that is unfortunately hard to find in the U.S. It grows in subtropical regions, is low in calories, and boasts a wealth of benefits.
What Are Water Apples and Where Do They Come From?
Water apples—also known in English as bellfruit, water cherry, or jambu in Malaysia—are the fruits of the Syzygium aqueum plant, native to subtropical climates. This plant grows in areas ranging from Malaysia to Queensland in Australia, passing through India and Thailand.
At first glance, they may appear to be oddly shaped apples. However, contrary to what their name might suggest, their flavor is sweet and slightly acidic, resembling that of an apple. Their texture, on the other hand, is crunchy, juicy, and watery, much like a watermelon. The aroma is very floral, reminiscent of a rose, which is why this fruit is also called the pink apple.
More to the Plant Than Just the Fruit
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