One of our smallest and cutest local trees is simultaneously in flower and fruit right now. The Mock Olive, scientific name Notelaea venosa, has been flowering and fruiting almost continuously over the last 18 months, due to the extraordinary sequence of wet years. One of many local tree species that have benefited from the wet conditions, it's done extraordinarily well. 

I'm not sure how to do the Native Mock Olive justice. It's just not that showy. But it does provide absolutely outstanding habitat, via its spreading and shady branches, and due to the juicy, edible fruit. Here's an advanced specimen that's doing extremely well.

If you haven't previously made the Mock Olive's acquaintance, now is the time to do so.

This tiny and resilient tree could cope in almost any garden situation, and its spreading habit and extensive root system will allow rainfall to infiltrate the soil, reducing the challenges of flooding downstream. It deserves protection so it has the chance to thrive and reproduce. 

Are you one of the lucky people who have a Mock Olive in your garden or in your local Bushcare or Landcare area? Keep an eye out to see just how regularly it is in flower and fruit.

Emma Rooksby is the coordinator of Growing Illawarra Natives