Acronychia imperforata (Fraser Island Apple)

Description

Beach Acronychia is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree or shrub known for its dense foliage and attractive fruit. It typically reaches heights of 5-15 meters and has a bushy, rounded crown. The bark is smooth and greyish-brown.

Flowers

The flowers of Beach Acronychia are small, creamy-white, and fragrant, appearing in clusters. They typically bloom from late winter to early spring, attracting various pollinators including bees and butterflies.

Foliage

The leaves are glossy, dark green, and leathery with a smooth texture. They are elliptic to oblong in shape, measuring about 5-12 cm long. The foliage is dense, providing good shade and privacy when used as a hedge or screen.

Fruit

The fruit is a small, round drupe, about 1-2 cm in diameter, turning from green to yellow as it matures. It is edible and has a tart, lemon-like flavor. The fruit ripens in late summer to autumn.

Form and Size

Beach Acronychia can be grown as a shrub or a small tree. It generally reaches a height of 5-15 meters and a spread of 4-6 meters. The form is typically dense and rounded.

Growing Conditions

• Soil: Prefers well-drained, sandy soils but can tolerate a range of soil types including clay and loam.
• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial shade.
• Water: Requires moderate watering, more during dry periods.
• Climate: Suitable for coastal regions; tolerates salt spray and windy conditions. Frost-sensitive.

Uses

• Landscaping: Ideal for coastal gardens, hedges, and screening due to its dense foliage and salt tolerance.
• Culinary: The fruit can be used in jams, jellies, and beverages.
• Ecological: Provides habitat and food for wildlife, including birds and insects.

Maintenance

• Pruning: Regular pruning helps maintain shape and encourages dense growth.
• Fertilizing: Benefits from occasional fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
• Pest and Disease: Generally pest-resistant but can be susceptible to scale insects and root rot in poorly drained soils.

Notes

Beach Acronychia is a hardy plant that adapts well to coastal conditions, making it an excellent choice for seaside gardens. Its attractive foliage and edible fruit add both aesthetic and practical value to the landscape

Common Name

Beach Acronychia, Fraser Island Apple

Botanical Name

Acronychia imperforata

Family

Rutaceae

Origin

Australia, primarily found along the coastal regions of New South Wales and Queensland, including Fraser Island.

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