Quandong / Native Peach - Santalum acuminatum (Quwandhang) seeds

Quandong (Santalum acuminatum)
A stunning parasitic shrub or small tree with bright red fruits, perfect for bush food gardens and ornamental use.

Quick Facts

• Height & Spread: Grows as a large shrub or small tree up to 3 meters tall.
• Flowers & Fruits: Small white flowers in clusters during spring/summer, followed by fleshy, bright red fruits (25 mm diameter) when ripe.
• Soil: Thrives in poor, well-drained soils and tolerates hot, dry conditions.
• Position: Prefers full sun; requires a host plant for parasitic growth.
• Climate: Adaptable to arid and semi-arid regions.

Why Grow Quandong?

Quandong is a highly ornamental and functional tree that provides shade and shelter while producing nutritious fruits. It supports native birds and butterflies and has deep cultural and ecological significance.

Bush Food Note

Quandong fruits and seeds have a unique tart flavor and are highly nutritious:

• Flesh:
  • Used in jams, conserves, sauces, and confectionery.
  • Flavor reminiscent of peach, apricot, or rhubarb.
• Kernels:
  • High in protein and vitamin C; edible and versatile.
  • Can be roasted, ground, or incorporated into recipes.

Bush Medicine Note

Quandong has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties:

• Kernels:
  • Ground into antibacterial and anti-inflammatory pastes for skin conditions and toothaches.
• Roots:
  • Infused to treat rheumatism.
• Leaves:
  • Used for stomach ache relief.

Disclaimer: Information about traditional bush medicine is provided for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before use

How to Grow

1. Seed Stratification:

   • Place seeds in moist sand or peat moss in a cool location (e.g., refrigerator) for 4–6 weeks to simulate natural winter conditions.

2. Planting:

   • Use a well-draining germination medium like sandy loam or cactus mix.
   • Sow seeds 1 cm deep in pots or seed trays.

3. Position:

   • Ensure access to a host plant for parasitic support, such as wattles (Acacia spp.).
   • Provide full sun and warm conditions (20–25°C) for germination.

4. Watering:

   • Keep soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering to prevent rot.

5. Transplanting:

   • When seedlings develop true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or garden beds with a suitable host plant nearby.

6. Care Tips:

   • Water regularly during establishment; drought-tolerant once mature.
   • Prune lightly to maintain shape and promote healthy growth.

Uses in Your Garden

• Bush Food Garden: Produces tart, nutritious fruits and edible seeds for culinary use.
• Ornamental Value: Bright red fruits and small white flowers add visual appeal.
• Shade & Shelter: Provides cover for native birds and insects.
• Wildlife Habitat: Attracts birds and butterflies, enhancing biodiversity.

Germination Tips

• Timeframe: Germination may take several weeks to a few months. Be patient and consistent with care.
• Moisture: Maintain consistent soil moisture without waterlogging.
• Temperature: Keep soil warm at 20–25°C for optimal germination.
• Light: Place pots in a well-lit area with indirect sunlight.

Order Now

Grow the culturally and ecologically significant Quandong in your garden. With its tart, edible fruits, medicinal properties, and ornamental appeal, Quandong is a rewarding addition to arid and native landscapes.

Order your Quandong seeds today and cultivate this remarkable Australian native plant!