Syzygium guineense (Willd.) DC. subsp. barotsense x afromontanum F.White
Common names
Pale bark waterberry (English); ndalambo, mufinsa, mulalalambe, musingyu (Bemba); nsombo (Nyanja)
General description and distinguishing characteristics
Syzygium guineense subsp. barotsense x afromontanum is an evergreen tree up to 12 m in height. It is recognised by its pale bark, stilt-like roots and acuminate (drip tip) leaves. Bark smooth, pale grey or greyish white. Leaves simple, opposite with distinctive parallel leaf venation at 45° to the midrib. Clear gland dots visible against the light. Leaf typically 5-10 x 2-3.5 cm, leathery, narrowly elliptic with a distinct ‘drip tip’ Petiole 1-2 cm long. Flowers white with conspicuous stamens, produced in many branched heads (October-December). Fruit an ellipsoid, purple-black berry, typically 1.8 x 1.2 cm (December-March).
Syzygium guineense is one of the most widespread of African trees, and is found in many forms and habitats. Consequently, taxonomists have struggled to classify it into distinct species (FZ Vol. 4, 1978). The result is a bewildering array of subspecies and hybrids. The form found in the valley has been named as Syzygium guineense subsp. barotsense x afromontanum. This tree is found on river banks and the only species it might be confused with is Syzygium cordatum. However, Syzygium cordatum has rounded leaves with no leaf stalk (see above).
Distribution and habitat
Syzygium guineense subsp. barotsense x afromontanum has been recorded in Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Angola. It is not common in the valley but it is found occasionally in riverine fringe woodland on the tributaries of the Luangwa.