ELAEOCARPUS reticulatus - Blueberry Ash 100g

A very attractive flowering tree with masses of small white or pink fringed bell-shaped flowers that occur in summer. The flowers are followed by colourful blueberries.
The flowers are followed by globular-shaped blue fruits which are retained on the plant for long periods. The fruits are not regarded as palatable. The most commonly grown member of the genus is popular for its size.

Native to New South Wales, Queensland, Tasmania, and Victoria.
Prefers heavy moist soil in a protected sunny position, drought, and frost tender.

Grow notes:

Although seed can be sown most of the year in many parts of Australia seed is generally best sown in spring or autumn, avoid the coldest and hottest months of the year. The optimum germination temperature for germination is around 18-22°C for this species.

Filing or cutting the seed to expose a small part of the embryo assist in the uptake of moisture giving faster germination. Care must be taken not to damage the embryo if this method is undertaken.

1. Soak seed for 3-4 days changing the water daily to remove inhibitors.
2. Sow seed 1cm deep
3. Place in a warm shaded or semi-shaded position to avoid dying out.
4. Keep warm & moist, and avoid drying out or waterlogging the growing mix.
5. Germination can be slow and take several months to a year or more to occur under natural conditions.

The seed will also germinate successfully in the compost pile, providing it is kept moist and retains heat. Simply cover the compost with a damp hessian bag and stay moist. Check periodically for germination.

General note: Seeds of many natives are dormant and require specific conditions or pre-treatment for germination.
Do not be too hasty to discard seed that does not germinate, seeds will often lay dormant until the conditions are similar to their natural requirements for germination to occur. Containers put to one side will often surprise long after they were discarded.

Due to the size of this seed, a $4.00 additional shipping charge is applied as it can only be posted as a parcel.