Exocarpus aphyllus
Family: Santalaceae
What it is like
Exocarpus aphyllus is an evergreen Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). It is in leaf all year. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.
Height (m): 3
Where it is found
Sandy soils in inland areas in all mainland states.
Australia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Fruit stalk - sweet and palatable when fully ripe, astringent otherwise.
Medicine
Rating: 1
Treats colds and sores.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in this country. It is likely to require a light well-drained soil and a sunny sheltered position. It is a root parasite, we do not know which species it parasitizes.
Propagating it: Seed - we have no information on this species but would recommend sowing the seed in the spring in a warm greenhouse in a pot that contains a suitable host. Sow a few seeds in each pot. Once the seeds have germinated, grow on the plants in the greenhouse for at least their first winter before planting them out by the roots of a mature suitable host.
Best place to grow: Woodland Garden Sunny Edge;
Habit: Shrub
Hardiness:
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist