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Description
Syzygium Oleosum, commonly known as Blue Lilly Pilly, is an evergreen tree belonging to the family Myrtaceae. It is native to Australia and is widely distributed in the coastal areas of New South Wales and Queensland. It is a popular ornamental tree, known for its attractive foliage and colorful fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Myrtaceae |
| Genus | Syzygium |
Appearance
The Blue Lilly Pilly tree can grow up to 10 meters tall and 5 meters wide. It has glossy green leaves that are oval-shaped and up to 10 centimeters long. The tree produces small white flowers that are followed by dark blue or purple berries, which are edible but tart in taste. The bark of the tree is smooth and reddish-brown in color.
Care Guide
The Blue Lilly Pilly tree is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and requires regular watering, especially during the hot and dry summer months. Fertilization can be done once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. The tree can tolerate full sun or partial shade and can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Blue Lilly Pilly tree is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs, and leaf-eating caterpillars. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent infestations. The tree can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot, which can be treated with fungicides.
Habitat
The Blue Lilly Pilly tree is native to the coastal regions of eastern Australia, where it grows in subtropical and tropical rainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, and along riverbanks. It is also commonly planted in parks, gardens, and streetscapes for its ornamental value.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Blue Lilly Pilly tree be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in a container, but it will require regular pruning to maintain its size.
Q: Does the Blue Lilly Pilly tree attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the tree’s fruits are attractive to birds and other wildlife.
Q: Is the Blue Lilly Pilly tree drought-tolerant?
A: While the tree can tolerate some drought, it will require regular watering to thrive.
Q: How often should the Blue Lilly Pilly tree be pruned?
A: The tree can be pruned once a year in the spring to maintain its shape and size.
Related Plants
- Syzygium australe
- Syzygium paniculatum
- Syzygium smithii
- Syzygium wilsonii
References
- “Syzygium oleosum – Blue Lilly Pilly.” Australian National Botanic Gardens.
- “Growing Syzygium Oleosum.” Gardening Know How.
- “Blue Lilly Pilly Tree.” PlantNet.
