Elaeocarpus reticulatus Prima Donna

Elaeocarpus reticulatus 'Prima Donna' is a compact and elegant evergreen tree native to Australia, known for its attractive foliage, showy flowers, and ornamental berries. This cultivar is highly valued for its versatility and ornamental appeal, making it a popular choice for Australian gardens and landscapes.

Height and Width

• Height: Typically grows to a height of 4 to 6 meters when mature.
• Width: Spreads out to a width of about 3 to 4 meters.

Soil Type

• Soil Preference: 'Prima Donna' prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a loamy or sandy texture. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels, from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline, but performs best in soil that is rich in organic matter.

Plant Description

• Foliage: The tree features glossy, dark green leaves that are oval to lance-shaped and arranged alternately along the branches. The foliage provides a lush, dense canopy that offers shade and shelter for wildlife.
• Growth Habit: 'Prima Donna' has a compact, upright growth habit with a rounded crown. It typically forms a single trunk with dense branching, creating a symmetrical and picturesque silhouette.

Flower Description

• Flowers: 'Prima Donna' produces clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers in spring to early summer. The flowers are creamy-white in color with prominent yellow stamens, creating a striking contrast against the dark green foliage. They are fragrant and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing the tree's ecological value.

Fruit Description

• Fruit: The tree bears small, round fruit known as "blue quandongs," which ripen from green to blue or purplish-black when mature. The fruit is ornamental and not typically edible for humans, but it is valued by native wildlife, including birds and mammals, for its nutritional value.

Cultivation and Care

• Watering: Provide regular watering during the establishment period to encourage deep root development. Once established, 'Prima Donna' is moderately drought-tolerant and requires minimal supplemental watering, except during prolonged dry periods or hot weather.
• Sunlight: 'Prima Donna' prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in bright, sunny conditions and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth and flowering.
• Temperature: 'Prima Donna' is well-suited to the Australian climate and thrives in warm, subtropical regions. It can tolerate heat, drought, and moderate frost once established.
• Pruning: Prune as needed to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and promote airflow within the canopy. 'Prima Donna' responds well to light pruning and can be shaped into a more compact form if desired.
• Fertilising: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser formulated for ornamental trees and shrubs in spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.

Additional Notes

• Pests and Diseases: 'Prima Donna' is relatively resistant to pests and diseases but may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot in poorly drained soil. Monitor regularly and treat promptly if issues arise.
• Uses: Ideal for use as a specimen tree, focal point, or ornamental planting in gardens, parks, and landscapes. 'Prima Donna' adds year-round beauty, fragrance, and habitat value, making it a valuable asset to Australian landscapes.

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