Australian Brush Cherry
syzygium smithii
Also known as: ["Austropanax smithii","Acmena smithii"]
Overview
An evergreen tree native to eastern Australia, valued for its glossy foliage and small white flowers followed by edible red berries.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Syzygium |
| Botanical Name: | Syzygium smithii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot or large container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if indoor air is very dry
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with organic matter, such as peat or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; can be pruned heavily if needed but avoid removing more than one-third of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent leaf burn; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in cool conditions.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heating vents; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden shifts.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings with a node; air layering for larger specimens.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem, cut below node, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or coarse sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone powder or gel recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back to encourage branching, remove crossing/rubbing stems.
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, encourage bushiness, remove dead/diseased growth, maintain size.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, loppers for larger branches, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, make clean cuts, remove debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water after repotting.
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 even moisture distribution, allow excess water to drain completely, water in the morning to reduce 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; ensure aeration with chunky components.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, yellowing, or browning leaf edges; stunted growth in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; vulnerable to frost damage below 28°F (-2°C).
Solution: Protect from frost with frost cloth; move indoors in winter; avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced vigor; may drop leaves in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicThe berries of Syzygium smithii are not considered toxic to cats. However, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicThe berries of Syzygium smithii are not considered toxic to dogs. However, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicThe berries of Syzygium smithii are generally considered non-toxic to humans and are sometimes consumed. However, they are not commonly used as food due to their astringent taste.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the fruit of Syzygium smithii edible?
A: Yes, the small red berries are edible and often consumed by wildlife and humans.
Q: How tall does Syzygium smithii grow?
A: It can grow up to 15–20 meters tall in its natural habitat, though it can be pruned to a smaller size in cultivation.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and berries.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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