It belongs to one of the ancient lineages of flowering plants. The whole genus includes just two other species, each endemic to widely separated locations in Australia.
The flowers have a sweet, fruity fragrance that is quite pervasive. Each flower lasts only one day and is pollinated by small brown weevils which are attracted by the perfume.
Fruits ripen in winter and are ready to eat when they are soft to squeeze. They can be used in jams and jellies, and are quite good to eat raw, although the seeds are a bit of a nuisance. The whole fruit can be dried, crushed and used to flavour foods such as ice cream.
It will add a subtropical feel to your garden and will grow in sun or shade in most soils. The fruit will also attract fruit-eating birds and animals. In dry periods, mulching and additional watering will keep it in peak condition. It is also successful as a container plant both indoors and outdoors.