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Description
Syzygium Moorei, also known as the Moore’s Lilly Pilly, is a small evergreen tree that is native to the subtropical rainforests of eastern Australia. It is a member of the Myrtaceae family and is popularly grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and abundant flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Syzygium |
Appearance
The leaves of the Syzygium Moorei are glossy and dark green, with a length of 5-8cm and a width of 2-3cm. The new growth is often bronze or reddish in color. The flowers are small and white, and bloom in clusters in summer. The fruit is a deep purple, edible berry that is around 1cm in diameter.
Care Guide
Syzygium Moorei is a relatively low maintenance plant. Here are some tips on how to care for it:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, making sure not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant the Syzygium Moorei in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: The Syzygium Moorei is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Syzygium Moorei is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to the following:
- Scale insects: These insects can attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant, causing yellowing and wilting.
- Fungal diseases: The plant can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and anthracnose.
Habitat
The Syzygium Moorei is native to the subtropical rainforests of eastern Australia, where it grows in the understorey and along creek banks. It prefers well-draining soils and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Syzygium Moorei an edible plant?
A: Yes, the fruit of the Syzygium Moorei is edible and can be used to make jams and jellies.
Q: How tall can Syzygium Moorei grow?
A: The Syzygium Moorei can grow up to 6-8 meters tall in its natural habitat.
Q: Can Syzygium Moorei be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Syzygium Moorei can be grown in a container, but it will require regular pruning to keep it a manageable size.
Q: Does Syzygium Moorei attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the flowers of the Syzygium Moorei can attract bees and other pollinators, while the fruit can attract birds.
Related Plants
- Syzygium australe
- Syzygium luehmannii
- Syzygium paniculatum
- Syzygium smithii
References
- “Syzygium moorei – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d159.
- “Syzygium Moorei.” PlantNet, plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Syzygium~moorei.
- “Syzygium Moorei – Moore’s Lily Pilly.” Australian Plants Online, www.australianplantsonline.com.au/syzygium-moorei-moore-s-lilly-pilly.html.
