An interesting medium sized shrub with leathery leaves, bearing clusters of small edible berries in summer to early autumn. The berries are red at mid ripening, and turn darker at full ripeness, which is when the birds will also help themselves to your fruit. They can be eaten raw or used in cooking. Grows in full sun to dappled shade. While it originates in tropical areas, it can withstand light frost, but will perform best in warmer climates and in full sun. Likes well drained but moist soil, added organic matter will help growth. New growth is an attractive red, can be used for informal hedging.
Antidesma erostre – Native Currant
Plant Information
Plant Type - Large shrub
Common Name - Native Currant
Scientific Name - Antidesma erostre
Family - Phyllanthaceae
Cultivar Name -
Other Common Name -
Minimum Height - 2
Maximum Height - 5
Minimum Width - 2
Maximum Width - 2.5
Flower Colour - Cream
Flowering Time - Spring
pH Level - Acid, Neutral
Soil Type - Loamy, Sandy loam, Clay loam
Plant Environment - Low maintenance garden, Container growing
Climate Zone - Tropical, Sub-tropical, Warm temperate
Light - Sunny, Light shade
Growth Habit - Evergreen
Life Span - Perennial
Soil Moisture - Well-drained, Moist moderate drainage
Propagation Method -
Frost Tolerance - Tolerates light frost
Plant Usage -
Special Uses - Edible, Decorative fruit
Attracts Wildlife - Bees, Seed eating birds, Other insects
Angus Cultivar -