• The Quandongs are trees that produce mainly blue fruits usually with a single largish seed, and the leaves often have fine serrations.

• There are about 60 species in many parts of the tropics of the world, with about half found in Australia.

•  However, they are not at all related to the 'quandongs' of drier parts of southern and central Australia.

• The most commonly seen species in the Daintree is the Blue Quandong, Elaeocarpus angustifolius.

• The tree often has many dropped red leaves underneath it as well as it's marble sized blue fruits (left) that have a distinctive seed that looks like a brain.

• The tart flesh is edible, but best when older and soft.

• This species can grow into a huge rainforest tree with well-developed buttress roots, but is more commonly encountered as a pioneer species on the edge of rainforests all along the east coast of Australia.

• They are found along the Cape Tribulation road and there are some good big examples at the Jindalba carpark, as well as on the side of roads towards Bartle Frere.

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• Another common Quandong species is the Kuranda Quandong, Elaeocarpus bancroftii.

• The fruit on this tree is larger and duller (left), and older fruits often have dull flaky, cracked skin.

• The fruit has a persistent stalk and a distinctive football shaped, pitted seed. It is an obvious plant along Dubuji boardwalk when fruiting.

Script and Photos: Courtesy of  Damon Ramsey BSc.(Zool) Biologist Guide