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Holly's Homestead — Native Bush Food

Davidson's Plum

Davidsonia spp. · Cunoniaceae, native to Australia
DIFFICULTY Moderate
TYPE Evergreen perennial tree, native to Australia
MATURITY 4–5 years to first useful crop
Sun
Part shade–full sun
Water
Regular, appreciates humidity
Soil pH
5.5–6.5
Spacing
3–4m
Depth
as per pot

01Rainforest understorey native

Native to subtropical rainforest, this tree fruits directly on the trunk and older branches (a habit called cauliflory) — an unusual and distinctive feature to look out for.

02Planting

Method
Plant from a nursery pot in a sheltered, part-shaded spot.
Soil
Rich, moisture-retentive, well-drained.
Timing
Plant in spring, in a warm, sheltered position.

03Growing care

  • Provide some shelter and dappled shade, especially while young.
  • Water regularly — dislikes drying out.
  • Mulch well to retain moisture.
  • Protect from frost — best suited to subtropical and warm temperate zones.

04Problems

  • Frost damage — limits it to milder zones.
  • Fruit fly — net or manage as fruit develops.
  • Drying out — the main risk in hot, dry conditions; mulch well.
  • Slow to establish — be patient in early years.

05Harvest & storage

Signs
Fruit turns deep purple, growing directly on the trunk and branches.
Method
Pick by hand once fully coloured.
Curing
None needed — very tart, almost always used cooked or processed rather than eaten raw.
Storage
Fridge a few days; freezes well for later use.

06Companions & rotation

Plant nearby
Other rainforest natives
Avoid nearby
Hot, dry, exposed positions
Rotation note
Not applicable — long-lived perennial tree.