Powder-Puff Lillypilly (Syzygium wilsonii)
This beautiful small tree or shrub, also known as Plum Satin-Ash, may be seen in several Paluma gardens and also in the forest understory along the upper reaches of the Range Road. A modest, dainty tree, almost spindly in growth, it is easily overlooked until the emergence of new leaves. These cascade in pendant clusters of brilliant crimson, flame-like against the dark green of older leaves.
Flowering occurs between June and December, but here in Paluma the months of August and September see the most prolific blooming. At present there are many flowers to be seen, hanging demurely beneath long, dark green leaves. The gorgeous flowers are made up of dense clusters of filaments which form a delicate red pompon, about the size of an orange. They attract many birds, mostly honey-eaters. Clusters of cherry-sized creamy white fruit follow flowering. It is not recorded whether they are edible, but most fruits of the Syzygium species are edible.
Syzygium wilsonii is usually seen as a shrub growing to about 3 metres, but it can occasionally grow to 9 metres. Its timber is fine-textured and moderately hard. It is resistant to fungi and termites, but susceptible to dry wood borers. The wood can be used for making musical instruments, tool handles and furniture.
See if you can spot some of these gorgeous flowers hanging shyly beneath long leaves in Paluma gardens.
Text & Photo by Colwyn Campbell