The Burdekin Plum (Pleiogynium timorense) is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to the tropical regions of Australia, particularly Queensland, and parts of Southeast Asia. It plays a significant role in agroecological systems as a mid-canopy layer in food forests, providing shade and habitat for understory plants and wildlife. The tree is valued for its ability to thrive in a variety of soil types, from sandy to loamy, and its resilience to drought once established. The dark purple to black fruits are edible after ripening off the tree and are traditionally used in indigenous diets and medicine. In regenerative agriculture, the Burdekin Plum enhances biodiversity and soil health, serving as a windbreak and erosion control plant. It pairs well with nitrogen-fixing plants like Acacia species and can be part of a guild with other fruit trees such as mangoes and citrus, which benefit from its shade and microclimate regulation.
Growing Details
The Burdekin Plum thrives in well-drained soils and can adapt to sandy and loamy conditions. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with nitrogen-fixing species like Acacia can enhance soil fertility. Avoid planting in frost-prone areas as the tree is sensitive to cold. Harvest fruits when they have fallen and ripened off the tree for best flavor. Store rip
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Pleiogynium timorense</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to tropical regions of Australia and S
applicable geo region: Tropical and subtropical regions
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of September for 30 days
Harvest:
beginning
of November for 60 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: The fruit of the Burdekin Plum is edible and can be consumed fresh after ripening off the tree. It is commonly used in jams, jellies, and desserts. The fruit is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, making it a nutritious addition to the diet. It is important to note that the fruit should be fully ripe before consumption to avoid any astringency.
Medicinal Rating:
(3/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, the fruit has been used in indigenous medicine for its antioxidant properties and potential to support immune health. It is often used in remedies for digestive issues and as a general health tonic.
health concerns: Unripe fruit can be astringent and may cause digestive discomfort if consumed in large quantities.
other uses: The wood of the Burdekin Plum is dense and durable, making it suitable for timber and craftwork. It is also used in traditional carving and furniture making.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Pleiogynium timorense
common names: Burdekin Plum; Tulip Plum; Queensland Plum
family: Anacardiaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Pleiogynium
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 5.0 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: High
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(10/10)
first harvest: 5 years
life span: 50 years
succession: Mid
growth rate: Medium
max height: 20.0 m
max width: 10.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: The Burdekin Plum thrives in well-drained soils and can adapt to sandy and loamy conditions. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with nitrogen-fixing species like Acacia can enhance soil fertility. Avoid planting in frost-prone areas as the tree is sensitive to cold. Harvest fruits when they have fallen and ripened off the tree for best flavor. Store rip
Potential Disturbances: Common pests include fruit flies and scale insects. Introduce beneficial insects such as parasitic wasps to control fruit fly populations. Companion planting with marigolds can help repel nematodes. Neem oil and garlic sprays are effective organic solutions for managing scale insects.
Growth Timeline
Recipes Using This Plant
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