Scientific Name: Acmena Ingens
Common Name: Red Apple
Indigenous Use
Ripe fruit eaten.
When in Use
Fruit is ripe Summer to Autumn.
Description
Acmena ingens, commonly known as Red Apple, is a prominent rainforest tree that can reach heights of up to 30 metres. It has a dense, rounded crown, making it a striking component of the rainforest canopy (Australian National Botanic Gardens, 2023).
Identification
Leaves: The leaves of Acmena ingens are arranged oppositely, elliptical in shape, and measure 6-15 cm in length and 3-6 cm in width. They are glossy green and aromatic when crushed (Myrtaceae Information Network, 2023).
Bark: The tree features a straight trunk with smooth, greyish bark that flakes off in patches (Australian National Botanic Gardens, 2023).
Flowers: The small, white flowers are arranged in clusters called panicles and typically bloom from late spring to early summer (Myrtaceae Information Network, 2023).
Fruit: The fruit is globular, 2-3 cm in diameter, and red in colour. It is edible, with a crisp and slightly tart flavour. The fruiting period occurs from late summer to autumn (Australian Rainforest Plants, 2023).
Ecosystems
Found in the below ecosystem/s.
Rainforests: Sub-tropical rainforests usually consist of three strata of trees with up to 60 species making up the canopy, many with large leaves. Palms and strangler figs are common and the undergrowth Is luxuriant with mayn epiphytic or terrestrial ferns and orchids and abundant large climbers of many species. In Queensland, rainforests can be found in well-known locations like the Daintree Rainforest, Lamington National Park, and Mary Caincross Park.
References
“Australian National Botanic Gardens, 2023. Acmena ingens. [online] Available at: https://www.anbg.gov.au/acmena-ingens [Accessed 3 June 2024].
Australian Rainforest Plants, 2023. Acmena ingens. [online] Available at: https://www.rainforestplants.com.au/acmena-ingens [Accessed 3 June 2024].
Myrtaceae Information Network, 2023. Acmena ingens. [online] Available at: https://www.myrtaceaeinfo.net/acmena-ingens [Accessed 3 June 2024].”
Young, P., Rainforest Guide. Brisbane Forest Park Administration Authority, 1988.
Leiper, G., Glazebrook, J., Cox, D., & Rathie, K., 2008. Mountain to Mangroves: A Field Guide to the Native Plants of South-east Queensland. Logan River Branch, Society for Growing Australian Plants.