Blue Quandong - Elaeocarpus angustifolius 'grandis'

The Blue Quandong is a fast-growing rainforest tree known for its striking blue fruit, delicate fringed white flowers, and ability to thrive in diverse conditions. Highly valued for its ecological role and traditional bush tucker uses, it excels in rainforest settings and can grow through an under-canopy, eventually forming a large over-canopy tree.

Quick Overview:

• Native to: Rainforests of northern and eastern Australia, extending into Southeast Asia.
• Height: 10-20 meters in cultivation, up to 30-40 meters in its natural habitat.
• Foliage: Glossy green leaves, turning vibrant red before shedding.
• Flowers: Fringed white, bell-shaped flowers in autumn.
• Fruit: Bright blue, round, edible fruit ripening from late winter to spring.
• Growth Habit: Fast-growing with a tall, straight trunk and spreading canopy.
• Position: Prefers full sun to part shade; thrives in moist, well-drained soil.
• Tolerance: Adaptable to various soils, but best in deep, fertile ground.
• Etymology: Elaeocarpus means "olive fruit," referring to its edible drupe, and angustifolius means "narrow-leaved."

Detailed Description:
The Blue Quandong is an impressive rainforest species that plays a crucial role in its ecosystem. In its natural setting, it grows as a towering canopy tree, reaching up to 40 meters. When cultivated, it typically grows between 10-20 meters, making it more suitable for large gardens, parks, and reforestation projects. Its rapid growth and striking foliage make it a visually appealing tree, while its ability to establish in rainforest understories allows it to grow through to form part of the upper canopy.

In autumn, the tree produces delicate, fringed white flowers that dangle in small clusters, creating a beautiful contrast against its dark green leaves. By late winter through spring, the tree bears its iconic bright blue fruit, which contains a hard, deeply pitted seed. The fruit is an important food source for native wildlife, particularly birds such as cassowaries and pigeons, which help disperse the seeds.

The Blue Quandong is edible bush tucker and can be eaten fresh or made into jams. However, the fruit is tart and not particularly sweet, often requiring additional preparation for consumption. The seeds are also used in traditional crafts and jewelry due to their intricate textured surfaces.

As the tree matures past 10 meters, it develops distinctive buttress roots, which provide stability in rainforest environments. These roots enhance its visual appeal and reinforce its structural integrity.

Planting Benefits:

• Rainforest Growth: Excels in rainforest settings, growing through the under-canopy to become a large over-canopy tree.
• Wildlife Attraction: Provides an essential food source for birds and other native wildlife.
• Fast-Growing: Ideal for quick shade provision and reforestation projects.
• Edible Fruit: Can be eaten fresh or processed into jams and preserves.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Offers a striking combination of white flowers, vibrant red autumn leaves, and bright blue fruit.

With its ecological value, rapid growth, and striking ornamental features, the Blue Quandong is an outstanding choice for large gardens, habitat restoration, and rainforest regeneration projects.