Syzygium papyraceum

Paperbark Satinash

Myrtaceae

Form and Size: A medium tree to 15m, with a dense crown.

Distribution: Cooktown to the Paluma Range, near Townsville; in rainforest above 500m altitude.

Leaves: Opposite, oval, thick, dark glossy green above, paler and dull beneath, to 10cm x 4cm; new growth is shiny brown.

Bark: Orange-red, papery.

Flowers: Mauve, small, fluffy; borne in small terminal clusters.

Flowering Period: September to October. 

Fruit: Bright iridescent purple, globular or pear-shaped, about 3cm diameter.

Cultivation/Notes: Propagate from fresh seed. Avery decorative small tree, which may only reach 4-6 metres in cultivation. It is slow growing, but often flowers while young. Loamy, well drained soils and abundant water are preferred. It may need some protection while young.