Coastal Boobialla - Myoporum boninense

The Coastal Boobialla is a hardy and versatile shrub native to the coastal regions of eastern Australia. It has a maximum height of 1.5-2 meters but can be pruned to suit your landscaping needs. Coastal Boobialla thrives in full sun, and tolerates salt and sea spray, making it an excellent choice for coastal gardens.

• Native to: Coastal regions of eastern Australia
• Growth Habit: Mostly prostrate, can reach a maximum height of 1.5-2 meters but can be trimmed to shape
• Foliage: Small, narrow green leaves
• Flowers: Small, white to pale lilac, star-shaped flowers
• Fruiting Season: Produces small, fleshy berries
• Edibility: Aboriginal people used the fruit to add flavor to cooked foods; however, they were usually considered too bitter to be eaten raw, and over-consumption is not recommended
• Preferred Conditions: Full sun, well-drained soil, salt and drought-tolerant
• Maintenance: Minimal pruning, occasional removal of dead branches
• Landscaping Uses: Ideal for coastal gardens, as a windbreak, or for erosion control

Description:

The Coastal Boobialla, scientifically known as Myoporum boninense, is a hardy and versatile shrub native to the coastal regions of eastern Australia. Its adaptability and resilience make it a popular choice for various landscaping applications.

This shrub has a predominantly prostrate growth habit, spreading horizontally rather than reaching significant heights. It can achieve a maximum height of 1.5-2 meters but is amenable to pruning and shaping to suit your landscaping needs.

Coastal Boobialla features small, narrow green leaves that add a touch of greenery to your outdoor space. During the flowering season, which occurs in late spring to early summer, the shrub graces its surroundings with clusters of small, star-shaped flowers. These blossoms can vary in color, ranging from white to pale lilac, adding a delicate charm to your garden.

Following the flowering period, the shrub produces small, fleshy berries, which are historically known for their use in Aboriginal cuisine. Aboriginal people used the fruit of Myoporum boninense to add flavor to cooked foods. However, it's essential to note that these berries are usually considered too bitter to be eaten raw, and over-consumption is not recommended.

Coastal Boobialla thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for coastal gardens. Its remarkable salt and drought tolerance make it ideal for withstanding the challenging conditions often encountered in coastal areas.

Maintenance requirements for this shrub are minimal, primarily involving occasional pruning to shape the plant and the removal of any dead branches.

Beyond its aesthetic qualities, Coastal Boobialla is a valuable asset for landscaping purposes, serving as a windbreak or assisting in erosion control in coastal environments.

Planting Benefits:

• Coastal Adaptability: Well-suited for coastal gardens, with excellent salt and drought tolerance.
• Ornamental Appeal: Delicate star-shaped flowers and small, fleshy berries enhance the visual charm of your garden.
• Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning and care, making it an easy addition to your landscape.
• Versatility: Ideal for various landscaping uses, including as a windbreak or for erosion control in coastal regions.