Posted by This kind of fruit is called “jambu” in Indonesian. I decided to write about this because of a simple fact that I didn’t know the English word for it. After researching online I found out that in English, it is called ‘rose apples’ or ‘plum rose’. Rose apples are not apples and the name ‘rose’ is due to the rosy scent of the flesh.
The source in the internet says that the rose apples originate from the East Indies and Malaya (a.k.a. Indonesia and Malaysia), and was introduced to Jamaica in 1762. They were first planted in Florida before 1876 and then later on in California.
The fruit can be greenish of pinkish depending on the type. It has a very smooth and thin skin and firm flesh that is sweet (sometimes sour) and rose scented. The texture is crips and almost crunchy. Because it is watery and juicy, rose apples are very refreshing to eat in the heat.
You can hardly find any rose apples in supermarkets, only in traditional markets or street vendors selling fruits.
Rose Apples
Popularity: 2% [?]
This fruit is surprising good to eat, being very refreshing in a hot climate. It is known as Jamu in Sabah, Malaysia. The name Rose Apple doesn’t suit it at all, neither does Plum Rose. But for the life of me, I can’t figure out a name that suits this fruit other than Jamu.
I used to have a Jamu tree in my backyard before I accidentally chopped it down. But that’s another story.
Jambu is one of my favourite fruits
Jambu.. Is my Favorite Food