I am reminded each year at this time to celebrate that quiet achiever, the Tree Violet.  This shrub is found in many situations around Melbourne from harsh escarpments and exposed Grasslands to sheltered river valleys where it may reach the size of a small tree (eg. along the Yarra at Ivanhoe).  It recently had a name change from Hymenanthera dentata to Melicytus dentatus, placing it firmly within the generic fold of a cluster of New Zealandish rainforest cousins. 

Unlikely as it seems, the Tree Violet is in the same family as the familiar Violet.  One of the few family resemblances is the strong, sweet odour of the flowers.  These are all the more welcome for perfuming the frigid late winter/early spring  air.  

A beaut little bush under established trees, even if a trifle slow to begin with.  It is among the most shade tolerant species around but is equally hardy in full sun. 

The pretty bluish berries are relished by small birds such as Silver-eyes, which ensure the plant pops up all over the place, even in the gardens of those who wouldn't dream of planting an 'indigenous'  plant.