Persoonia

Family: Proteaceae
Common Name: Geebung

There are around 60 species of these attractive, compact shrubs or small trees, all of which originate from Australia. Their leaves vary in shape and the short spikes or sprays of open, bell-shaped, usually yellow flowers are followed by edible, though rather astringent, berries containing a one- or two-celled nut. Persoonias are unlikely to be available outside Australia.

Species

P. acerosa, mossy geebung, is a small or prostrate shrub, to 2 m (6 ft), with yellow flowers crowded at the ends of the branches.

P. chamaepitys is an attractive, prostrate, spreading plant, with soft, needle-like, bright green leaves and clusters of showy, bright yellow flowers.

P. lanceolata, to 2 m (6 ft), has narrow leaves and small, yellow flowers.

P. levis, broad-leafed geebung, is a spreading shrub, to 4 m (13 ft), with thick, bright green, oval leaves and yellow flowers arising from the leaf bases. The fruits are edible but quite astringent.

P. pinifolia, pine-leafed geebung, is the most attractive of the species and the most commonly cultivated. Delicate, bright green, pine-like foliage appears all year round, and sprays of small, yellow flowers appear in spring or summer. The berries ripen to red or purple tones in late summer or autumn, persisting for many months. The foliage is used as a filler in floral arrangements.

P. subvelutina, velvety geebung, is an elegant, tall shrub, with downy foliage and red fruits, found in mountainous regions.

Cultivation

In frost-prone climates, grow in an airy, cool greenhouse or conservatory in pots of acid, soil-based potting compost. Shade from strong, direct sun. Outdoors, grow in acid, sandy soil with good drainage, in a sunny position. Provide adequate water during hot dry weather. Pruning is generally unnecessary. Cuttings are difficult to root.

Climate

Zone 9 if relatively frost-free.

 
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