Syzygium oleosum

The Blue Lilly Pilly is a native to Australia and is found abundantly in northern parts of the continent. The Syzygium oleosum, more popularly known as the Blue Lilly Pilly, is a type of shrub that can grow as either a large bush or a more sizable small tree, reaching up to a maximum height of 20-40 feet. This species is fairly hardy and generally only requires a subtropical climate to grow its best. However, it is wise to provide protection from long or hard freezes. These plants enjoy profuse amounts of water, but they will still manage to grow in drier climates if they are in areas that receive a combination of light sun and shade.

The Blue Lilly Pilly produces many beautiful off-white, creamy-colored flowers that give off a pleasant, fragrant aroma. This aroma has also been found to act as a natural attractant to both butterflies and hummingbirds. In addition to its natural beauty, the Blue Lilly Pilly can produce an edible fruit. This fruit is small, dark green, and turns black when ripe. The fruit is generally enjoyed raw or cooked and can also be used to make jams, jellies, preserves, and various drinks.

The Blue Lilly Pilly has many healthy benefits. It contains many useful chemicals and nutrients, including zinc, iron, magnesium, and vitamin C. Also, it is known to be rich in anti-microbial characteristics, helping to keep the immune system functioning efficiently. In terms of how much fruit the plant can produce, it will depend on the climate, care, and nurturing. A well-kept Blue Lilly Pilly can produce up to 30 fruits per season.

Those looking to grow their own Blue Lilly Pilly will best succeed in USDA Zones 9-11. In particular, those located in colder climates may benefit from growing their plant in a pot. Seeing as the Blue Lilly Pilly is native to Australia, it may take a bit of extra care and nurturing, but with some patience, it is possible to grow these beauties successfully in a pot or a sunny spot in the yard.

Similar plants:

• Syzygium antisepticum, Syzygium gratum, Eugenia glaucicalyx, Eugenia grata, Syzygium glaucicalyx (Kalaum, Malaruhat)
• Syzygium aqueum, Eugenia aquea (Water Cherry, Watery Rose Apple)
• Syzygium aromaticum, Caryophyllus aromaticus, Eugenia caryophyllata, Eugenia caryophyllus (Clove, Cloves)
• Syzygium australe (Scrub Cherry)
• Syzygium campanulatum, Syzygium myrtifolium, Eugenia oleina (Wild Cinnamon)
• Syzygium contractum (Bois de Pomme, Bois Boeuf)
• Syzygium cumini (Malabar plum, Java plum, Black plum, Jamun, Jaman, Jambul, Jambolan, Lilly Pilly, Duhat)
• Syzygium grande, Eugenia firma, Eugenia grandis (Sea Apple)
• Syzygium jambos, Eugenia jambos, Jambosa jambos (Rose apple, Malabar Plum, Pomme rosa)
• Syzygium luehmannii (Small Leaved Lilly Pilly)