The genus comprises about 1200 species,[4][5][6] and has a native range that extends from Africa and Madagascar through southern Asia east through the Pacific.

[7] Its highest levels of diversity occur from Malaysia to northeastern Australia, where many species are very poorly known and many more have not been described taxonomically.

Several species are grown as ornamental plants for their attractive glossy foliage, and a few produce edible fruits called roseapples that are eaten fresh or used in jams and jellies.

Fifty-two species are found in Australia and are generally known as lillipillies, brush cherries or satinash.

Many species formerly classed as Eugenia are now included in the genus Syzygium, although the former name may persist in horticulture.