Gardenia pyriformis (Turpentine Tree)

Gardenia pyriformis, commonly known as Turpentine Tree, is found on the Dampier Peninsula north of Broome. This small shrub or trees can grow to around 5 metres, has a smooth bark (sometimes with a slight orange tinge) and large, white flowers. Some Aboriginal people from the Dampier Peninsula are known to drink an infusion of the bark of the Turpentine Tree against ‘cold sick’ and also apply it to aches and sores. Gardenia pyriformis flowers around February/ March, the fruiting occurs between May- July.