Quandong (Santalum acuminatum) – Native Australian Fruit with Tart, Refreshing Flavor

Quandong (Santalum acuminatum), also known as the Desert Peach or Wild Peach, is a unique and nutritious native Australian fruit. This small, bright red drupe is prized for its tangy, slightly sour flavor and high antioxidant content. Quandong has been a staple in Indigenous Australian cuisine and medicine for centuries. It grows naturally in arid and semi-arid regions, making it an excellent choice for drought-resistant gardening.

Key Features

• Scientific Name: Santalum acuminatum
• Common Names: Quandong, Desert Peach, Wild Peach
• Flavor Profile: Tart, tangy, and slightly sweet with a refreshing aftertaste
• Fruit Size & Color: Small (2–3 cm in diameter), bright red drupe with a large, hard seed
• Edibility: Edible raw or dried; often used in jams, chutneys, and desserts
• Nutritional Benefits:
  • High in vitamin C (higher than oranges)
  • Rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber
  • Contains essential fatty acids from the kernel

Growing Conditions

Quandong is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant that thrives in dry, well-drained soils. It requires a host plant to grow successfully, as it is a semi-parasitic species that extracts nutrients from neighboring plants.

Ideal USDA Zones for Growth (USA)

• Best suited for USDA Zones 9-11
• Can be grown in Zone 8 with winter protection
• Prefers hot, dry climates similar to its native Australian habitat

Global Climate Adaptability

• Australia: Naturally thrives in arid and semi-arid regions
• USA: Suitable for desert and Mediterranean-like regions (California, Arizona, Texas, Florida)
• South Africa: Grows well in dry, rocky areas
• Middle East: Can be cultivated in arid conditions with proper host plants
• Southern Europe: Suitable for Mediterranean regions with dry summers

Planting & Care Instructions

• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Watering: Minimal; drought-resistant once established
• Temperature Tolerance: Prefers warm temperatures; can tolerate mild frost
• Fertilization: Minimal fertilization needed; benefits from organic compost
• Host Plant Requirement: Best grown alongside a nitrogen-fixing host plant (e.g., Acacia species)

Uses & Benefits

• Culinary Uses:
  • Fresh or dried in desserts, jams, sauces, and chutneys
  • Pairs well with meat dishes, chocolates, and cheese
  • Used in bush tucker cuisine for its unique tangy taste
• Medicinal & Skincare Uses:
  • Traditionally used for wound healing and digestive health
  • Rich in antioxidants for anti-aging and skin benefits
  • Quandong seed oil is used in skincare products
• Environmental Benefits:
  • Drought-resistant and requires low water input
  • Helps prevent soil erosion in arid landscapes
  • Supports native ecosystems and biodiversity

Why Choose Dhara Seeds?

At Dhara Seeds, we are committed to providing high-quality, naturally grown, and non-GMO seeds. Our Quandong seeds are carefully sourced from naturally thriving plants, ensuring optimal germination and growth.

• 100% Non-GMO & Naturally Grown
• Handpicked & Sustainably Sourced
• Ideal for Home Gardens, Orchards, and Sustainable Farming
• Fast & Reliable Shipping Across the USA & Global

Bring the exotic and nutrient-rich Quandong to your garden with Dhara Seeds!