Santalum acuminatum
Santalum acuminatum
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Pl. 5083 — Santalum acuminatum
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IOverview
Overview
Santalum acuminatum, commonly known as quandong or native peach, is a small to medium-sized tree in the family Santalaceae, native to southeastern Australia. Found in New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, and Victoria, this hardy plant thrives in various soil types—light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay)—preferring moist conditions and full to partial sun. The quandong is valued for its edible fruit, which can be used in jams, preserves, and desserts. Its distinctive feature lies in the small, red berries that ripen from green to a deep crimson, making it an attractive ornamental addition to gardens while also providing sustenance.
Quick answers
What is Santalum acuminatum?
Santalum acuminatum, commonly known as quandong or native peach, is a small to medium-sized tree in the family Santalaceae, native to southeastern Australia.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Santalum acuminatum thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is native to regions including New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and Western Australia, making it adaptable to various climates. The plant produces edible fruit and seeds, which are useful for propagation. Given its natural habitat in temperate regions, Santalum acuminatum should be hardy but may require protection from extreme weather conditions.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
For first-time growers
How to grow Santalum acuminatum for the first time
7steps
Start with a simple planting of Santalum acuminatum to gain experience in caring for this unique plant.
- 1
What you'll need
A young sapling, well-draining soil mix, and a container or garden bed.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant during spring when the weather is mild and there's plenty of moisture in the soil.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a light, well-draining mix with some organic matter. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings into prepared soil, ensuring roots are not damaged during the process.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and place in a partially shaded area to avoid direct sunlight.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly but avoid overwatering. Provide partial shade, especially from intense afternoon sun.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Focus on maintaining the plant's shape and health through regular pruning rather than harvesting.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: The fruit and seeds of Santalum acuminatum are edible. The fruits can be eaten raw or used to make jams and preserves. Seeds are typically dried before consumption, often ground into a powder for use in cooking.
Other uses:Fire starterTanninWaxLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 6 native
Broader regions
native:Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, Western Australia, New South Wales
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 508353ca-6365-451d-8b75-3ee23bfc2665
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