Organic Gardening in February

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Written By Sally Eberhardtv

Lilly pilly – versatile, easy and tasty

Whether you know it as lilly pilly, riberry or bush cherry, there is probably at least one of these popular native Syzygium species growing as an ornamental or hedge in your street!

There are around 60-70 species of lilly pilly in Australia, ranging from small shrubs to large trees. All feature brightly coloured new foliage in pinks and reds, ‘powder puff’ flowers and edible berries of white, pink, red or purple.

Nutritional Benefits and Growing Tips

Lilly pillies are a well-known bushtucker plant and First Nations Australians often refer to them as medicine berries. They are high in vitamins C and E, magnesium and potassium and have been used for aeons for their antibacterial and healing properties. 

While berries of all species are edible, some taste better than others! When fully ripe they have a tart sweetness like cranberries. Creek lilly pilly and riberry have sweeter fruit that tastes great fresh from the tree (after a wash to remove pollution and creepy-crawlies) but even sour varieties make good jam, chutney and cordial. 

Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings, or buy a cultivar bred for fruit rather than foliage. Mulch and water during hot, dry spells to be rewarded with delicious, health-giving fruit.

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