Syzygium Species, Narrow-Leaved Lilly Pilly

Although this is often used as a hedge of varying heights, I prefer it as a tree. One nursery in Australia refers to it as the "Neighbors...Read More-Be-Gone" tree because of it's extremely dense growth habit. The new leaves are tinged red and frequent light pruning encourages lots of new red growth. Very pretty.

This is an Australian native plant from the rainforests. It is widely grown here for its fruit, lush foliage, and compact (horizontally)...Read More habit.

The bright purple fruits hang in bunches of about 12, are about 1.5 cm round with a crisp floury apple-like texture, and mildly astringent effect on the tongue. They have a mild taste: slightly spicy, a little sweet, a little sour - very refreshing and extremely rich in vitamin C. I love them, and use a ladder to get the high ones, which can be VERY high!

The seed is about 4mm round and sits loose inside the flesh. They were an important fruit for the original inhabitants of Australia. Although it is a rainforest tree, it will grow almost anywhere, though I am unsure of its frost/snow status. It provides a deep shade, grows quickly if well nourished, and has a tall narrow habit making it good for small gardens. It will grow in narrow shaded spaces, and doesnt mind root competition. The fruits can cause a little mess (only temporary) if they land on concrete, but otherwise will quickly decompose. Mulch it well, no need to prune it. The deep green glossy leaves are about 5-7cm long, 2.5cm wide, and change colour as they mature, starting of red. A personal favourite of mine, I hope others can obtain it overseas.

Nectar-feeding birds like the flowers, which resemble eucalyptus ("Gum Tree") flowers, with a multitude of stamens and no petals, then other birds come for the fruit that follows.