Eupomatia laurina aka Bolwarra

Eupomatia laurina, or bolwarra, belongs to the family Eupomatiaceae. Its native range spans New Guinea and eastern to southeastern Australia. In Australia, it occurs in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. It grows in and near warm rainforest and moist eucalypt forest. In New South Wales, these sites include coastal areas and lower ranges. Across its range, it occurs in warm temperate to tropical climates.

Bolwarra forms an evergreen shrub or a small tree. Its branches arch, and plants can reach 20 feet [6 metres]. The leaves change colour with the weather. Cold conditions bring out dark red or copper tones. Green returns when the weather grows warm again. The plant takes pruning well, which helps keep its form compact. This gives gardeners some control over its shape and size. It prefers shade and grows at elevations reaching 3,609 feet [1,100 metres].

Each flower opens for just one day. Tiny weevils visit the flowers and carry out pollination. The flowers give off a strong scent with fruity notes. Some people enjoy the smell; others find it too strong. The berries range from round to urn-shaped. They start green and turn brownish when fully ripe. Each measures about 0.6–0.8 inches across and holds many small seeds. Fresh seed can sprout within a few months of sowing.

People gather the fruit from wild plants for local use. The fruit can be eaten raw. Its clear, soft flesh has a sweet taste and scent. Accounts compare its flavour with kiwi fruit or guava, with hints of nutmeg. The juice can flavour ice cream or yoghurt. Useful Tropical Plants lists no known hazards for this species. That statement does not establish the safety of every plant part. The same source lists no known medicinal uses.

The bark also has a history of practical use. People soaked and twisted its fibres to make twine. They also made fishing line, using other plant extracts to strengthen it and limit fraying. Straight, upright branches served as shafts for spears. The wood has a yellow-brown colour and a coarse grain. It is soft and works well, but needs careful seasoning. These uses extend beyond the plant's value as a source of fruit.