Australian Blackthorn, Sweet Bursaria
Bursaria spinosa
Family: Pittosporaceae
What it is like
An erect shrub or small tree. It grows up to 3.5-10 m tall. There are many branches in the upper part. The small branches and shoots end in spines. The leaves occur in clusters. The leaves are oval or sword shaped and rather thin. They are 1-5 cm long. The flowers occur in branched flower clusters which form a cone shape. These are at the tips of branches. The flowers have 5 narrow oblong petals. They are white and star like. The fruit is a heart-shaped brittle capsule. These dry capsules tend to hang on the plant after the seed have fallen. There are both large leafed and small leafed kinds.
There are 6 Bursaria species. They grow in Australia.
Where it is found
It is a warm temperate plant. It grows in coastal sands and on dry hillsides. It will grow in most soils. It is best in an open sunny position. It is resistant to drought and frost. It suits hardiness zones 8-11. Melbourne Botanical gardens. Tasmania Herbarium. In Wittunga Botanical Gardens Adelaide. On Mt Roland. Arboretum Tasmania.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin), Tasmania (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
Edible parts
Nectar, seeds
How it is grown
It can be grown from seeds or cuttings. Cuttings are slow to grow.
They are fast growing but not very long lived. Flowers occur from November to January.
Its other names
Local names
Prickly Box, Tasmanian Christmas Bush