Elaeocarpus reticulatus (Blueberry Ash)

Elaeocarpus reticulatus, commonly known as the Blueberry Ash, is an Australian native renowned for its stunning blue berries and delicate white or pink bell-shaped flowers. Beyond its visual appeal, with narrow, shiny leaves that have a pinkish hue in younger stages, this evergreen tree plays a crucial role in local ecosystems.

Common Name: Blueberry Ash
Mature Height: 8-15 meters
Mature Width: 3-5 meters
Spacing: 4-5 meters apart for effective hedging
Foliage: Features glossy, dark green leaves with serrated edges. New growth often presents a charming pink tinge.
Flowering Period: Blooms are most vibrant from late spring to early summer, attracting a variety of pollinators.
Form/Habit: Exhibits an upright form with a dense crown, making it an ideal choice for structured landscapes.
Uses: Highly versatile, it serves well as hedging, an ornamental tree, or within bird-attracting gardens, enhancing biodiversity.
Evergreen/Deciduous: Evergreen, providing year-round interest and shelter for wildlife.
Tolerates: Demonstrates resilience against light frost, making it suitable for a range of climates.
Drought Hardy: Moderately, requiring minimal supplemental water once established.
Sun: Thrives in conditions from full sun to partial shade, offering flexibility in garden placement.
Maintenance: Requires low maintenance. Occasional pruning helps maintain its shape and removes lower branches if a more open form is desired.

Additional Information

• Soil Preferences: Adapts to a broad range of soil types, from well-drained sandy soils to clay, provided they are moderately fertile.
• Watering Needs: While established trees are drought-tolerant, regular watering during the first few years helps establish a strong root system. Mulching can assist in retaining soil moisture.
• Wildlife Attraction: Its berries are a vital food source for various bird species, including pigeons and currawongs, and its flowers attract pollinators, contributing to the garden's ecological health.
• Propagation: Can be propagated from seed or cuttings, though seeds may take several months to germinate. Stratification can improve germination rates.
• Pests/Diseases: Generally resilient, but watch for common garden pests such as scale insects. Regular monitoring and maintenance can prevent most issues.
• Landscape Design Tips: Ideal for use as a screen or hedge in residential gardens. Its narrow growth habit allows it to fit into slender spaces, providing privacy or windbreaks without occupying too much room.

Incorporating Elaeocarpus reticulatus into your garden or landscape not only adds beauty but also supports local biodiversity, offering habitat and food for birds and insects. This tree exemplifies the balance between ornamental value and ecological function, making it a cherished addition to both private and public spaces.

Some description

When you plant a new tree, it's crucial to give it the right start by ensuring it receives sufficient water. Here’s a general guideline for watering your newly planted tree:

• Immediately After Planting: Water your tree generously right after planting your Tristaniopsis laurina 'Luscious' (Watergum) to settle the soil around the roots and eliminate any air pockets.
• First Three Months: The initial three months are critical for the establishment of the tree. During this period, the tree should be hand watered twice daily, in the morning and evening. This helps the roots grow deep and strong.
• Irrigation System: If you have an irrigation system, adjust it to ensure the tree gets adequate water during these first months.
• Adjusting to Weather Conditions: Always consider the weather conditions and adjust your watering accordingly. In hotter and drier periods, additional watering may be necessary.

Consistent attention to your tree’s watering needs during this initial period will help ensure its healthy growth and long-term success in your garden.

Here is our guide for planting your trees with the appropriate root ball dimensions. When planting, we recommend digging a hole that is 10% larger than the size of your pot, and teasing the rootball before planting to promote better root growth.

Root Ball Dimensions:

• 40cm Pot: 44 x 38.5 cm
• 45L Bag: 41.8 x 41.8 cm
• 50cm Squat Pot: 49.5 x 34.1 cm
• 50cm Pot: 49.5 x 35.2 cm
• 70L Pot: 55 x 41.8 cm
• 75L Bag: 55 x 48.4 cm
• 90L Pot: 59.4 x 44 cm
• 100L Bag: 50.6 x 52.8 cm
• 100L Squat Bag: 58.3 x 49.5 cm
• 100L Pot: 66 x 49.5 cm
• 150L Bag: 66 x 55 cm
• 155L Pot: 74.8 x 52.8 cm
• 200L Bag: 71.5 x 60.5 cm
• 280L Pot: 91.3 x 55 cm
• 300L Bag: 88 x 63.8 cm
• 400L Bag: 99 x 66 cm
• 500L Bag: 122 x 66 cm
• 1000L Bag: 146.3 x 71.5 cm
• 2000L Bag: 176 x 82.5 cm

Follow these dimensions to ensure a smooth planting process and optimal growth for your new tree.