Coolamon

Syzgyium moorei

This rare sub-tropical rainforest tree grows in the volcanic soils of north-eastern New South Wales and south-east Queensland. For a New South Wales Myrtle, the tree is unusual in having large 8 to 20 cm long, thick-paired leaves. Stems are straight, up to 60 cm in diameter, with grey, brown or reddish bark.

Another distinguishing feature is the clusters of fluffy pink flowers that arise on the trunk and larger branches from November to February. This is followed by dense clusters of fleshy white fruits up to 6 cm in diameter maturing in late March or April. This unusual feature is known as cauliflory, where flowers and fruit form on the main stems and trunks of trees rather than on new growth.

The species is listed as vulnerable and today is more likely found in botanic gardens and as a street tree than in its natural habitat.

How high can I grow? Up to 40m.