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Native to: Rainforests of Eastern Australia, from Cape York Peninsula to Richmond River
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Habitat: Common in subtropical and dry rainforests, growing as an understorey or canopy tree
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Height: 8-12 meters in cultivation; up to 20 meters in natural conditions
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Foliage: Glossy, dark green leaves with prominent veins; new growth emerges bronze
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Flowers: Small, cream-colored, fringed flowers bloom in spring and early summer
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Fruit: Starts green with small white spots, then turns deep blue; not palatable but valuable for wildlife
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Growth Habit: Naturally upright with a dense, symmetrical canopy
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Growth Rate: Slow to moderate growth rate, its growth rate increases as it matures
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Position: Can grow in full sun to full shade; shade results in a slower, taller, and thinner growth form
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Fertilizer: Thrives with an all-purpose fertilizer
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Etymology: Elaeocarpus means "olive fruit," referring to its drupaceous fruit, and eumundi refers to its occurrence near the town of Eumundi in Queensland
Detailed Description:
Eumundi Quandong (Elaeocarpus eumundi) is a highly ornamental rainforest tree valued for its lush, glossy foliage, seasonal flowers, and attractive blue fruit. Though slow-growing, it forms a dense, symmetrical canopy that makes it ideal for use as a shade tree, windbreak, or screening plant in urban and suburban landscapes.
The foliage is a standout feature, with new leaves emerging in a warm bronze hue before maturing into deep green with prominent veins. These leaves create a lush, dense canopy that is particularly effective in filtering light and reducing urban heat.
The tree produces small, fringed cream-colored flowers in spring and early summer, followed by distinctive fruit that initially appears green with tiny white spots. This fruit can remain in this stage for months before finally ripening into a deep blue. While the fruit is technically edible, it is not considered palatable, making it better suited as a food source for wildlife.
Growth and Maintenance
Eumundi Quandong is slow-growing to moderate at best and can take several years to establish a mature form. It is highly adaptable to different light conditions, growing in full sun to full shade. However, trees grown in shadier environments or under competition from other plants tend to grow slower, skinnier, and taller compared to those planted in full sun.
Once planted, it should be watered once or twice a week for the first 1-3 weeks. After this period, it generally does not require additional watering unless new leaves droop or there is an upcoming hot, dry day. After a few months, the tree can completely fend for itself in most conditions.
Pruning and Shaping
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Pruning for symmetry is recommended during adolescence to develop a well-formed tree. Rather than hedging, selectively prune branches that protrude beyond the natural symmetrical shape.
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Avoid hedging methods, as they can leave the tree looking sparse and uneven.
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Water shoots or suckers may emerge from the lower trunk. These can be identified by their angle—water shoots emerge at approximately 45 degrees, while normal branches have a near 90-degree angle. It is best to remove any water shoots below hip to chest height to ensure proper form.
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Allow main branching to begin at 4-6 feet (approximately 1.2-1.8 meters), depending on preference and location, so the tree can mature into a strong, well-balanced structure.
Common Uses
- Parks and large garden landscapes
- Street trees and council plantings
- Screening and windbreaks
- Backyards as a shade or feature tree
Planting Benefits
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Aesthetic appeal: Lush, glossy foliage, seasonal flowers, and vibrant blue fruit create year-round interest
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Shade provider: Dense canopy provides excellent shade for urban and suburban areas
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Wildlife attraction: Flowers support pollinators, and fruit provides food for native wildlife
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Versatile growth: Can be used for screening, hedging, or as a standalone feature tree
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Low maintenance: Minimal watering is needed once established, and it thrives with basic pruning and an all-purpose fertilizer
Eumundi Quandong is an excellent choice for those looking to plant a hardy, attractive, and functional tree. Though slow-growing, its long-term benefits in providing shade, habitat, and ornamental beauty make it a worthwhile addition to any landscape.
