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Description
Syzygium Australe, also known as Brush Cherry or Creek Lilly Pilly, is a plant that belongs to the Myrtaceae family. It is native to Australia and can grow up to 10 meters tall. The plant has glossy, dark green leaves and produces white or pink flowers that have a sweet scent. The fruit of the plant is edible and has a sweet taste.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus ||——–|———|——–|——-|——-|——–|——-|| Eukarya | Plantae | Spermatophyta | Magnoliopsida | Myrtales | Myrtaceae | Syzygium |
Appearance
Syzygium Australe has a dense and bushy appearance with a symmetrical growth habit. The plant can be pruned to maintain its shape and size. The leaves are ovate and glossy with a length of 3-5 cm and a width of 1-3 cm. The flowers are white or pink and grow in clusters of 5-15. The fruit of the plant is a small berry that is edible and has a sweet taste.
Care Guide
Water
Syzygium Australe requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The plant should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to avoid waterlogging the soil.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized every 2-3 months during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Overfertilization can lead to excessive growth and weak branches.
Soil
Syzygium Australe prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade but may have reduced growth and flowering.
Hardiness Zones
Syzygium Australe is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Syzygium Australe is susceptible to pests such as scales, mealybugs, and aphids. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Syzygium Australe is native to Australia and can be found in rainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, and along watercourses. The plant prefers moist soil and can tolerate flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Syzygium Australe?
A: The plant should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Q: Can Syzygium Australe be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with adequate space and drainage.
Q: Does Syzygium Australe require pruning?
A: Yes, the plant can be pruned to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Is Syzygium Australe deer-resistant?
A: No, the plant is not deer-resistant and may be damaged by deer browsing.
Related Plants
- Syzygium Paniculatum
- Syzygium Resilience
- Syzygium Leuhmannii
References
- “Syzygium Australe.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). https://anpsa.org.au/s-austr.html
- “Brush Cherry (Syzygium Australe).” University of Florida IFAS Extension. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp405
- “Syzygium Australe.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d641