Barrier Saltbush, Ruby Saltbush, Berry Saltbush
Enchylaena tomentosa
Family: Amaranthaceae
What it is like
A small spreading shrub. It grows 0.3-1 m tall and spreads 0.5-1.5 m wide. The branches are slender and woody. They are hairy and straggling. The leaves are 0.8-2 cm long by 0.1-0.2 cm wide. They are thin and cylindrical. They are succulent and bluish-green. They are hairy. The flowers are small and occur singly in the axils of leaves. The fruit berries are 0.5 cm across. They change colour as they mature. Some varieties occur.
There are a few Enchylaena species. Also put in the family Chenopodiaceae.
Where it is found
A tropical to warm temperate plant. It grows in semi-desert and arid regions. It is on sandy or calcareous soils. They can grow on slightly salty coastal soils. It is drought and frost tolerant. It can grow in arid places.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin), Hawaii, Pacific
How it is used for food
The young leaves can be cooked and used as a vegetable. The fruit are sweet and edible. They can also be dried and then soaked and eaten.
It is eaten especially by children.
Edible parts
Fruit, leaves
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings.
Its other names
Local names
Burra, Gurgudj, Iwati-wati, Mulili, Nyerilyi