Jamun` is a kind of `Java Plum` that is a medium-sized or large tree with a straight trunk. The tropical tree is graceful in form and evergreen. It is a native to India, Pakistan, Malaysia, Burma and Sri Lanka and very much recognizable to most of the people for its medicinal properties. Though it has uniquely designed leaves and it profuse sweet-scented flowers annually, very few people recognize it in that way. The tree thrives best in the dry areas. It is also known as Nerale Hannu, Jamblang, Jambolan, Black Plum, Damson Plum, Duhat Plum, Jambolan Plum, Java Plum or Portuguese Plum. "Malabar plum" may also refer to other species of Syzygium. According to Hindu tradition, Rama subsisted on the fruit in the forest for 14 years during his exile from Ayodhya. Because of this, many Hindus regard Jamun as a `fruit of the gods, ` especially in Gujarat, India, where it is known locally as jamboon.

The fruit of Jamun tree is oblong, ovoid, starts green and turns pink to shining crimson black as it matures. A variant of the tree produces white coloured fruit. The fruit has a combination of sweet, mildly sour and astringent flavour and tends to colour the tongue purple. The seed is also used in various alternative-healing systems like Ayurveda, Unani and Chinese medicine for digestive ailments. The leaves and bark are used for controlling blood pressure and gingivitis. Wine and vinegar are also made from the fruit. It has a high source in vitamin A and vitamin C.

Jamun has been spread overseas from India by Indian emigrants and at present is common in former tropical British colonies. Generally, they are tiny stars bearing great numbers on long, relaxed stems. They spring from the axils of the leaves. The pollen attracts bees and other insects and people can easily see lively crowds hanging round the tree all through the flowering season. When the fruit is ripe later in the year, numerous birds visit the tree very frequently. The tree has some long leaves that hang from the above. They crowd near the end of the branches and bear up to a number of leaflets that count twenty-nine to thirty-one. Each of the leaves is about 7.5 cm in length, severely jagged, sharply pointed and curvy like a sweep. Their surface is fresh, green in colour, and very shining. It gives the tree a delicate and appealing view. During the monsoon, the flowers fall down and the tree gets in full flora. To recognize easily, the curved and notched leaves mass around the branches and make a distinguishing appearance.