Myrtle-of-the-River

Calyptranthes zuzygium (L.) Sw.

ka-lip-TRAN-theeze  zoo-ZIZ-gee-um

Myrtaceae

Explanation of name: Calyptranthes refers to the caplike lid of the calyx. Zuzygium is probably a modification of the genus Syzygium (Myrtaceae) (HAM).

Natural range: Hammocks of South Florida, West Indies (LON)

Recognition: Shrubs or small trees with dichotomous branching, the stems not winged (vs. winged in C. pallens) (LON). Leaves opposite, elliptic-ovate, simple, the blades entire with slightly wavy margins, 1”-3” long, flat, dull, dark yellow-green, almost sessile (vs. petiolate in C. pallens) (LON). The center vein raised above the leaf surface (as opposed to C. pallens). Inflorescence glabrous (vs. pubescent in C. pallens) (LON). Flowers open all at once as in Eugenia.

Landscape uses: Left to grow naturally, this small tree or shrub will serve as a specimen with smaller shrubs as an understory. Flowers with pinkish buds, fragrant, white, small clusters at leaf axils, with many stamens but no petals (NEL).  Fruits attractive to birds and flowers to pollinating insects. Propagated by seed.

State-listed as endangered.  Illustrated in TOM