Southern lemon aspen
Acronychia oblongifolia
Family: Rutaceae
What it is like
A shrub or small tree. It grows 5 m tall. There are prickles along the stem. The leaves are twice divided and there are 8-18 pairs of pinnae. There are up to 50 pairs of pinnules on each pinnae. The flowers are yellow. They are in large clusters at the ends of branches. The pods are flattened.
There are 42-50 Acronychia species. It has flavenoides with anticancer properties.
Where it is found
It is a temperate and subtropical plant. It occurs naturally in New South Wales and Queensland in Australia. It prefers rich moist soil and a protected position. It is damaged by drought and frost. Once the tree is grown it can stand some frost. It does better in shade.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The ripe fruit can be eaten raw. They are acidic. They can also be used for jams, preserves, syrups, sauces, and salad dressing.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
It is grown by seed or cuttings. It benefits by watering in the dry season. It responds to fertiliser.
Flowering occurs in December to July and fruit are ripe July to October.
Its other names
Local names
Common Acronychia, Wild aspen, White lilly pilly, Yellow wood