Velvet Mock Olive, Native Olive, Small-fruited mock olive
Notelaea microcarpa
Family: Oleaceae
What it is like
A small tree. It grows 6-10 m high and spreads 4-6 m wide. The young growth is furry. The trunk is often crooked. The bark is grey and rough. The leaves are 2-15 cm long by 0.3-3 cm wide. They are narrowly oval and opposite. They are dull green. There is a prominent network of veins underneath. The flowering stalks are 0.5-2 cm long and in the axils of leaves. The flowers are small and cream. The fruit are fleshy and 0.7-1 cm long by 0.5-0.8 cm wide. The fruit turn black when ripe.
There are 11 Notelaea species. They grow in Australia.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. It grows in monsoon vine forests. It can grow on rocky soil. It needs good drainage. It can grow in sun or light shade. It suits tropical and subtropical regions. It is damaged by heavy frosts. It can tolerate dry periods. In tropical Queensland it grows from 300-800 m altitude.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The fruit are eaten when ripe.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed. It can also be grown from cuttings.