Jamun (Syzygium cumini)

Jamun, Java Plum, Jambul, Black Plum, or Jambolan, is a tall evergreen tree in the Myrtle family (Myrtaceae), native to India and naturalized in Southeast Asia and tropical regions worldwide. It is commonly grown as an ornamental shade tree and for its edible, dark purple fruits

Jamun reaches heights of 80 to 100 feet tall, and at maturity, has a beautiful spreading crown. Fragrant, cream-colored flowers bloom on the branches during the spring and develop into plum-sized green fruits that ripen to dark purple. When ripe, they are sweet and tangy and can be eaten fresh in salads or smoothies, or made into wine, vinegar, sauces, jams, jellies, or sorbets. Jamun fruits are highly nutritious and are a good source of antioxidants, phytochemicals, and vitamin C.  In Ayurvedic medicine, they are used to prevent diabetes, for digestive problems, and as a blood purifier. Culturally, they are considered a “fruit of the gods” and are mentioned in sacred Hindu texts.

Jamun thrives in tropical regions but its cold hardiness makes it an excellent fruit tree to grow outdoors in subtropical climates. It grows best in moist, well-draining soils in full sun and is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.