Brush cherry - Syzygium australe (Coastal lilly pilly) seeds

Brush Cherry (Syzygium australe)

A fast-growing, hardy tree with glossy foliage, ideal for hedging or as an ornamental feature.

Quick Facts

• Height: Up to 25 meters in nature; smaller in cultivation
• Flowering and Fruiting: Produces small white flowers followed by edible red to pink fruits
• Climate: Temperate and subtropical
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil
• Growth Habit: Dense tree or hedge with foliage from base to tip

Why Grow Brush Cherry?

Brush Cherry is highly valued for its dense, glossy foliage that makes it an excellent hedge or screen. Its versatility allows it to thrive in a variety of climates, and it is a low-maintenance choice for gardeners. Additionally, its crisp, edible fruits offer culinary uses, making it both ornamental and practical.

Bush Food Note

• Edible Fruits: The crisp, refreshing fruits are often made into jams but can also be eaten fresh.
• Culinary Uses: Perfect for desserts, sauces, or as a tart, refreshing snack.

How to Grow

Sowing Instructions:

• Seed Prep: No pre-treatment needed.
• Planting: Sow seeds about 1.5 cm (half an inch) deep in moist, well-drained soil. Ensure the pot or planting area has good drainage to prevent rot.
• Germination Time: 6 weeks, with ideal temperatures between 18–26°C (65–80°F). Germination may be slow and sporadic.

Planting and Care:

• Position: Full sun to partial shade.
• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Pruning: Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage dense growth if using as a hedge.

Uses in Your Garden

• Hedging and Screening: Fast-growing and dense, perfect for privacy and windbreaks.
• Ornamental Feature: Glossy leaves provide year-round visual appeal.
• Wildlife Attraction: Flowers and fruits attract birds and pollinators.

Germination Tips

• Timing: Best sown in spring or summer for optimal conditions.
• Moisture: Ensure soil remains consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Temperature: Maintain warm temperatures (18–26°C) for faster germination.

Order Now

Bring home the versatile and beautiful Brush Cherry. Perfect for hedges, screens, or as an edible addition to your garden, this fast-growing native is an essential choice for Australian gardeners!