Blueberry Ash

(Elaeocarpus reticulatus)

Blueberry Ash (Elaeocarpus reticulatus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Elaeocarpus reticulatus, commonly known as Blueberry Ash, is an evergreen tree or shrub native to the subtropical and temperate rainforests, moist gullies, and tall eucalypt forests of eastern Australia, ranging from Fraser Island in Queensland to Flinders Island in Tasmania. It typically grows to a height of 10-33 feet (3-10 meters) with a narrow, columnar form, making it suitable for smaller gardens or as a feature plant. The Blueberry Ash has oblong to elliptic, glossy green leaves that turn red in colder climates before they fall. From late spring to early summer, it produces showy racemes of frilly, bell-shaped flowers that are white to pale pink, followed by distinctive blue, oval to spherical fruits that attract various bird species.

This species is valued for its ornamental appeal, including its attractive flowers and colorful fruits, as well as its ability to attract wildlife. It is used in cultivation for urban planting, as a screen or hedge, and in mixed borders. Blueberry Ash prefers well-drained, fertile soils and can tolerate both full sun and part shade. It is relatively low maintenance, requiring only occasional pruning to maintain its shape. While it is generally pest-free, it can occasionally suffer from scale insects or sooty mold. It is not known to be invasive when grown outside its native range, but as with all non-native plantings, care should be taken to monitor its growth and spread.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 9.75-49 feet
  • Width: 3.25-16 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Hedges, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to subtropical and temperate rainforests, moist gullies, and tall eucalypt forests of eastern Australia

Other Names

Common Names: Blueberry Ash, Fairy Petticoats, Blue Oliveberry, Fringetree, Lily-Of-The-Valley-Tree, Prima Donna, Scrub-Ash

Scientific Names: , Elaeocarpus reticulatus, Elaeocarpus cyaneus, Elaeocarpus cyaneus var. carneus, Elaeocarpus reticulatus var. longifolius, Elaeocarpus reticulatus var. typicus, Eriostemum dentatum, Eriostemum dentatum, Monocera cyanea, Monocera reticulata

GBIF Accepted Name: