Weeping pittosporum, Butter bush, Native willow, Meemeei, Wild apricot, Berrigan
Pittosporum phillyreoides

Family: Pittosporaceae

What it is like

A small tree. It grows 4-8 m high. It spreads 2-5 m across. The branches hang down in a weeping fashion. They can droop to near ground level. The bark is pale grey and fairly smooth. The leaves are narrow. They are 5-10 cm long and bright green. They are 6-10 mm wide. They have a smooth, hooked point. The flowers are creamy-yellow. They are small and bell shaped. They occur in masses. They have a perfume. The fruit are orange berries. They split open when ripe to reveal deep red, sticky seeds.

There are about 200 Pittosporum species. It is regarded as medicine.

Where it is found

It grows in warm temperate regions but will also grow in arid and semi-arid places. It needs well drained soil. It can grow in full sun or light shade. It can stand heavy frosts. In the Inland Botanical Gardens Mildura.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The seeds are pounded to flour for food.

Edible parts

Seeds, gum

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seeds but they do not germinate easily. It is easy to grow on light soils.

Its other names

Local names

Gumbi gumbi, Guwiirra, Miyaymiyaay

Synonyms

Pittosporum angustifolium Lodd.;