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Xylomelum spp.
Overview
Xylomelum is a small genus of about six evergreen trees and large shrubs in the protea family, all endemic to Australia and known collectively as woody pears. Plants typically reach 10 to 30 ft (3 to 9 m) tall with stiff, leathery leaves that are often coarsely toothed on juvenile growth and entire at maturity; new growth frequently flushes pink to rusty red. Small creamy-white to pale-yellow flowers are packed into dense cylindrical spikes 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) long in spring and summer. The genus takes its name from its woody, pear-shaped fruit, a hard follicle 2 to 3 inches (5 to 8 cm) long that splits into two halves to release a pair of winged seeds. Fruits are serotinous, often held closed on the plant for years and opening after fire. Like most Proteaceae, Xylomelum is intolerant of phosphorus-rich fertilizers and grows slowly, which together with its need for sharp drainage limits its use to specialist native gardens.
Native Range
Xylomelum is endemic to Australia, with species in both the southwest of Western Australia and along the eastern seaboard from Queensland to New South Wales. The plants grow in sclerophyll forest, woodland, and heath, usually on nutrient-poor sandy or gravelly soils.Suggested Uses
Xylomelum is grown in Australian native gardens, low-water landscapes, and bushland restorations within frost-free regions. The woody fruits are also gathered for dried arrangements and craft work. Slow growth, frost sensitivity, and phosphorus intolerance restrict it to specialist and regional plantings.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height10' - 30'
Width/Spread8' - 20'
Bloom Information
Flowering occurs mainly in spring and summer, broadly September to December across the genus. Dense cylindrical spikes of small creamy flowers draw nectar-feeding birds and insects. Woody fruits develop slowly afterward and may remain closed on the plant for several years until heat triggers their release.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Creamy white to pale yellowFoliage Description
Dark green, leathery; new growth pink to rustyGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-10 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