Magenta Cherry, Australian Brush Cherry
syzygium paniculatum
Also known as: ["Magenta Plum","Magenta Lillypilly"]
Overview
A small to medium-sized evergreen tree native to Australia, known for its attractive pink to magenta fruit and glossy foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Syzygium |
| Botanical Name: | Syzygium paniculatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot or as a container plant in a sunny patio
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with organic matter, such as compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if necessary, but avoid heavy pruning on young plants.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, though some afternoon shade is beneficial in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to direct sun gradually over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in cooler months.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; test pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures, ideally 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in subtropical conditions.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather; adjust watering based on temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; avoid fertilizing newly repotted plants for 4–6 weeks; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–80°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth typically appears after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagation dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back, and shaping cuts to maintain form and health.
Pruning Plan
Shape the plant, encourage bushier growth, remove dead or diseased wood, and manage size.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, make clean cuts, remove dead/diseased wood, shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure drainage holes are present.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if crowded, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil mix, handle roots carefully, water lightly after repotting, place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain away, water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture and improve soil structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or leaf scorch in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of frost damage in temperatures below 28°F (-2°C).
Solution: Move to a sheltered location or indoors during cold spells; apply a thick layer of mulch to protect roots; use frost cloth if temperatures drop significantly.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; soil dries out rapidly; reduced flowering or fruiting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; mist leaves in the morning to cool the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply during growing season, avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring and summer; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during active growth; reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSyzygium paniculatum is not considered toxic to cats. The fruit is safe for consumption in moderation.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicSyzygium paniculatum is not considered toxic to dogs. The fruit is safe for consumption in moderation.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicSyzygium paniculatum, commonly known as the magenta cherry or marranglo, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. The fruit is edible and often consumed when ripe.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the fruit of Syzygium paniculatum edible?
A: Yes, the magenta fruit is edible and often used in jams and desserts.
Q: How tall does Syzygium paniculatum grow?
A: It typically grows to 10–20 feet tall, though it can reach up to 30 feet in ideal conditions.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, though it can tolerate some shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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