Botanical name
Elaeocarpus reticulatus
Common name
Blueberry Ash
Blueberry Ash description
Native to the coastal areas of eastern Australia, Blueberry Ash makes an excellent shade / specimen tree. Growing to approximately 8m high by 3m wide, it has a fairly narrow growth habit well suited to larger home gardens.
The tree displays pretty, fringed pink or white flowers almost all year round with the most prolific flowering period being Spring and Autumn. The flowers are followed by round, bright blue drupes which resemble blueberries (hence the name) containing one hard seed in the centre. The long flowering period often results in flowers and berries appearing on the tree at the same time which makes for a very attractive sight indeed.
A popular pink flowering cultivar is Elaeocarpus reticulatus ‘Prima Donna’
Climate
Warm temperate, sub-tropical, tropical
Blueberry Ash cultivation & care
Blueberry Ash performs best in deep, well-drained, reasonably fertile soil. Provide plenty of water in hot, dry weather and avoid frosts. Grow in a full sun to part shade position.
Propagate from seed (can take up to 2 years to germinate) or from semi-hardwood cuttings in late Summer to early Autumn.
Plant use
Parks, large gardens, shade trees, street trees, native gardens, screens
Pruning
Pruning is usually unnecessary.
Pests and diseases
No specific pests or diseases.
