Illawarra Plum / Plum Pine - Podocarpus elatus (Daalgaal) seeds

Podocarpus elatus - Illawarra Plum (Daalgaal, Goongum, Plum Pine)
A majestic evergreen tree with delicious bush fruits and ornamental charm.

Quick Facts

• Height: Can grow up to 40 meters with a dense, dark-green crown.
• Foliage: Evergreen, with glossy leaves forming a lush canopy.
• Fruit: Fleshy, grape-like pulpy fruits attached by a stem to the branch.
• Soil: Thrives in well-draining soil; prefers rainforest-like conditions.
• Position: Best grown in full sun to partial shade.
• Climate: Moderately frost-tolerant; young trees are more vulnerable to cold.

Why Grow Podocarpus elatus?

The Illawarra Plum is a stunning addition to any garden or edible landscape. Renowned for its culinary and cultural significance, this fast-growing rainforest tree produces unique, sweet fruits that can be enjoyed fresh or in cooking. Its dense, evergreen crown makes it an excellent choice for shade, screening, or as a focal point in larger gardens.

Bush Food Note

Illawarra Plum fruits are highly valued for their unique flavour and versatility:

• Taste & Texture: Grape-like texture with a mild, sweet pine flavour that intensifies when cooked.
• Culinary Uses: Used in jams, jellies, sauces, marinades, muffins, cheesecakes, and fruit compotes. Complements garlic, chilli, and savoury dishes.
• Harvesting: Fruits ripen from March to July. Pick directly from the tree or gather fallen ripe fruits.

Bush Medicine

• Unripe fruits of the Illawarra Plum were traditionally consumed to alleviate gastric complaints.

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

How to Grow

1. Sowing Instructions:

   • Sow seeds at any time of year in sandy, well-draining soil.
   • Cover seeds lightly and keep soil moist during the germination process.

2. Position:

   • Plant in a sunny to partially shaded location with protection from strong frost during early stages.

3. Care Tips:

   • Water regularly during establishment; reduce watering once mature.
   • Ensure both male and female trees are planted for fruit production.
   • Prune to shape if needed, especially in smaller spaces.

Uses in Your Garden

• Edible Landscape: A valuable addition to bush food gardens, providing delicious and versatile fruits.
• Ornamental Value: Its lush, dark-green canopy adds beauty and shade to gardens.
• Shade Tree: Ideal for creating cool, sheltered areas in larger landscapes.
• Wildlife Habitat: Attracts native birds and insects with its dense foliage and fruits.

Germination Tips

• Timeframe: Germination typically takes around 4 weeks.
• Soil: Use sandy, well-draining soil to ensure healthy seedling development.
• Potting: Prick seedlings out into individual pots when large enough to handle and grow them on until ready to plant out.
• Patience Required: Trees take 8–10 years from seed to reach maturity and begin fruiting.

Order Now

Experience the beauty and bounty of Podocarpus elatus. Its delicious fruits, rich history, and elegant form make the Illawarra Plum a standout feature in any garden.

Order your Illawarra Plum seeds today and grow a slice of Australia’s natural heritage!