Synima cordierorum

Sapindaceae

 Form and Size: A shrub or bushy tree to about 5m high.

Distribution: In wet rainforests from Cooktown to Mt. Spec, north Qld.

Leaves: Pinnate, to 45cm long; 2-5 pairs of leaflets, to 14cm x 5cm, stiff papery-textured, shiny green, margins minutely toothed; new growth bright red.

Flowers: White or cream, about 0.3cm diameter; borne on large, dense terminal panicles.

Flowering Period: July to August.

Fruit: Capsules, bright red, 3-lobed, borne in large bunches; opening to reveal seeds covered with a yellow aril.

Cultivation/Notes: Propagate from fresh seed. A very colourful small tree, with beautiful foliage and stunningly bright fruit. It is suited particularly to lightly shaded or protected areas with rich soils. Mulching and fertilising are beneficial. The fruit are eagerly sought by fruit-eating birds.