Overview
Elaeocarpus reticulatus is a small evergreen tree or large shrub reaching 4-10 m (13-33 ft) tall, with a narrow rounded crown and dark fissured bark. The alternate leaves are elliptic to oblong, 5-12 cm (2-4.7 in) long, leathery, glossy dark green above with a netted vein pattern and finely toothed margins; scattered older leaves turn red before falling, so a few crimson leaves are usually present year-round. From spring to early summer the tree carries hanging sprays of small bell-shaped flowers about 1 cm (0.4 in) long, white or pink, with fringed petal tips. The flowers are followed by hard rounded drupes 6-10 mm (0.25-0.4 in) wide that ripen bright blue and may persist for months, often overlapping the next flowering. The berries are eaten by birds. It grows in moist open forest and rainforest margins along the east coast on a range of well-drained soils. Growth is moderate and the crown can become open and uneven in shade. Both white- and pink-flowered forms occur, and several selected forms are grown in gardens.
Native Range
Native to eastern Australia, from Queensland through New South Wales to Victoria, in moist eucalypt forest, gully margins, and the edges of subtropical and warm-temperate rainforest.Suggested Uses
Planted as a screening or specimen tree in gardens and parks, in informal hedges, and in rainforest-style and bird-attracting plantings. Its size suits medium gardens and street verges with room for a 4-10 m canopy.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height13' - 33'
Width/Spread6'6" - 16'
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Glossy dark green with scattered red older leavesGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight