Native Gardenia

Native Gardenia (Atractocarpus fritzalanii), sometimes called a Yellow Mangosteen, is considered to be good bush tucker in the Aboriginal cuisine of its native region. It’s a common plant found in coastal forests and beach regions from Far North Queensland down through Mackay, and is a hardy dry rainforest specimen.

Its hard-shelled fruits are 6-7cm in diameter, containing a pale, soft and sweet segmented fruit with many small white seeds. Similar to a mangosteen in size, shape and flavour, they may be enjoyed raw on their own or used in salads, tarts, cakes and other desserts.

In Spring, the Native Gardenia blossoms with white, beautifully fragrant, star-shaped flowers. These later turn into brown fruit that ripens slowly over Winter, turning yellow when ready for harvest.

An established tree will tolerate both full sun and part shade, but while it is still young, be sure to shelter it from strong winds and the harsh afternoon sun. It prefers warmth and moisture, so mulch well before Summer and keep it watered throughout the dry season. Ensure a soil with good drainage. Leaves are large and glossy in an attractive shade of dark green.

Native Gardenia, when left to grow as a tree, can reach heights of up to 6m, providing some shade. With regular pruning, it may be kept in a pot or at shrub size, making it a fabulous display plant, particularly during flowering season.