Santalum lanceolatum aka Plumbush

Santalum lanceolatum, or bush plum, belongs to the Santalaceae family. Its native range runs from Papua New Guinea to Australia. Australian records cover all mainland states. It grows in dry shrubland and many kinds of woodland. Sites include dunes, rocky slopes, scrub, and ground over limestone. It also grows near the coast in dry areas. These habitats range from sandy ground to rocky hillsides.

Bush plum forms an evergreen shrub or a slender tree. The sources give heights of about 16–20 feet [5–6 metres]. Its green leaves stay on the plant year-round. The leaves contain chlorophyll and make sugars through photosynthesis. Each flower has both male and female organs. The fruit turns dark blue or purple as it ripens. It measures about 0.02–0.05 feet [0.007–0.015 metres] long. The supplied accounts give no flowering season or bark details.

This plant draws some of its needs from nearby roots. Botanists call this habit root hemi-parasitism. Host plants supply water and soil nutrients, but not sugars. Bush plum grows poorly without a host nearby. In the wild, it often uses Acacia and Casuarina trees. It can also use other shrubs, herbs, grasses, and legumes. One plant usually draws on several hosts at once. This host need matters when choosing a place to grow it.

The sources place bush plum in tropical and subtropical climates. PFAF lists sun and light shade as suitable growing conditions. It accepts sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It also tolerates mildly acid, neutral, and mildly alkaline soil. Despite its dry native habitats, PFAF says it prefers moist soil. That source suggests a sunny woodland edge as a garden setting. It lists seed as a means of propagation. The supplied evidence gives no frost limits or pest guidance.

People eat the sweetish fruit either raw or cooked. The tree also provides sandalwood oil for perfumes and soaps. Its wood has a scent. PFAF records medicinal uses for rheumatic complaints and skin sores. It also lists narcotic and purgative uses. These records describe uses, not proof of safe treatment. Both plant accounts report no known hazards. This does not establish safety for every use or for pets.