Syzygium oleosum aka Oily Satin Ash

Syzygium oleosum, or blue lilly pilly, is an evergreen shrub or small tree. It belongs to the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. Its native range lies in eastern Australia, in Queensland and New South Wales. It grows in coastal, subtropical and warm-temperate rainforest. Plants often grow near streams. The species suits warm-temperate to tropical climates, but has limited frost tolerance.

Plants usually reach 20–39 feet [6–12 metres], though some grow taller. The source also lists a height of 33 feet [10 metres]. Trunks can reach about 1 foot [0.3 metres] across. In open sun, the tree forms a dense mass of leaves. These can reach down to the ground. Its evergreen cover gives it value as an ornamental tree. The evidence gives no further details of bark or leaf shape.

Bees and other insects pollinate the flowers. Flowering and fruit crops do not occur every year. In some years, though, the tree bears heavy crops. The fruit grows in large clusters, with one seed per fruit. Fruits range from round to egg-shaped. Their skins may be blue, purple or magenta. Each fruit measures about 0.03–0.08 feet [0.01–0.025 metres] across. The evidence does not give a flowering season or describe flower colour.

Grow this tree in full sun or partial shade. Soil should drain well, but need not be rich. It grows in both poor and fertile ground. The tree can cope with drought, yet grows best with steady moisture. Growth can be fast when water is sufficient. It tolerates some frost, but needs shelter from severe or lasting freezes. No precise hardiness zone is given. The supplied evidence names no specific pests or diseases.

People gather the fruit from wild trees and eat it raw. It also suits jelly making. The flesh is crisp and watery, with lavender and ginger notes. Taste varies, and some fruit has a resin-like flavour. The source reports no known hazards or medicinal uses. Its wood seldom reaches a useful size. Growers can raise plants from fresh seed or firm young cuttings. Whole fruits can be sown, and seeds sprout in four to nine weeks. Cuttings from the current season's growth tend to root well.