VARIATION IN SUGAR CONTENT AND DISTRIBUTION IN SYZYGIUM SAMARANGENSE FRUITS

Abstract

Semarang apple  (Syzygium samarangense) consists of many cultivars with different sugar contents. In each fruit, the sugar content is not evenly distributed.  Fruit sweetness often determines the economic value of the semarang apple.  The objectives of this study were 1) to find out the distribution of sugar amongst several semarang apple cultivars, 2) to know the distribution of sugar content in the fruits, 3) to find out the correlation between average rainy days per month versus sugar contents.  The method used in this study was survey with purposive sampling, laboratory observation by measuring sugar content with a refractometer, and correlating sugar content versus rainy days per month.  The results of this study showed that the fruit with the highest sugar content are the cultivar of Syzygium samarangense ‘Sukaluyu’ (max 16.5 ◦Brix), S. samarangense 'Madu’ (max 14 ◦Brix), S. samarangense 'Kesuma Merah’ (max 10.5 ◦Brix), S. samarangense 'Citra’ (max 8.5◦Brix) which are suitable for fresh fruits.  While those with low sugar content such as S. samarangense 'Bajang Leang’ (4.5 ◦Brix), S. samarangense 'Kuning’ (4 ◦Brix) are more suitable for salad.  In the fruits, highest sugar is normally accumulated at the fruit apex, and the lowest sugar is at the fruit base.  Sugar levels are negatively correlated with the average rainy days per month. The fewer rainy days, the sweeter the fruit.