Common Name: Wilga; Australian Willow
Scientific Name: Geijera parviflora
Family: Rutaceae
Identification
Habit: Height ranges from 20-30 ft (6-9 m), spread is usually about 20 ft or 6 m (Figures 1 and 2).Figure 1Figure 2
Leaves: Medium green, linear to spear-shaped, drooping, narrow leaves range from 3-6 in (7.5-15 cm) long, and give off a strong scent when crushed (Figure 3).Figure 3
Twigs & Bark: Twigs thin, green and very flexible. Smooth to shallowly cracked, brown/gray bark (Figure 4).Figure 4
Flowers & Fruits: Very small, greenish white, unpleasant to citrus-scented flowers, usually in clusters near the tip of the branch (Figure 5). Fruit a small green to brown capsule. No fruit or seed drops.Figure 5
Where It’s From
Native Range: found in parts of eastern Australia, from central-western New South Wales and Queensland and Victoria into South Australia. Not native in North America but grown mostly in the southern and western United States (Figure 6).Figure 6
Ecological Notes: Will grow best when there is full sun on moist but well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions. Attracts bees. No major problem with pests and diseases.
What We Use It For
Ornamental and useful for shade, usually found near decks and patios and along streets.
References
Biographer
Alyssa Lee, FYS 20: Plants in Our World, Fall 2017