The Davidson’s plum (DP) is a group of three rainforest trees (Davidsonia jerseyana, Davidsonia johnsonii and Davidsonia pruriens) living in Australia which produce fruit. Their growing location is highly specific being restricted, D. jerseyana grows in subtropical rainforest in the northern parts of New South Wales (Harden, 2001). Davidsonia pruriens mainly grows in north-east Queensland.

The fruit became known as a plum because it is so similar to a Victoria plum although it tastes slightly more sour. The fruits erupt from the bark of the tree.

DP fruit has a diameter of 3–6 cm with a brilliant burgundy-claret colour and is often used for making jams, sauces, wines and vinegars, dressings and sauces, ice cream, drinks and for stewing (Ahmed & Johnson, 2000).

The trees are considered to be endangered. They are propagated by seed and produce their crop in the fourth year. Cropping is heavy and must be protected from extreme sun and parrots who enjoy the sharpness.

References

Ahmed, A.K. & Johnson, K.A. (2000). Turner Review No. 3. Horticultural development of Australian native edible plants. Australian Journal of Botany, 48, 417–426

Harden, G. J. (2001). Davidsonia jerseyana – New South Wales Flora Online. PlantNET – The Plant Information Network System. 2.0. Sydney, Australia: The Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust. Retrieved: 01 June 2014.