Common Fringe myrtle
Calytrix tetragona
Family: Myrtaceae
What it is like
A shrub. It grows about 1-2 m tall. It can spread 0.8-2 m wide. It has a smell. It has many stems from the base. The branches are slender and often arch over. The leaves are narrow and about 1 cm long by 1 mm wide. They often have finely fringed edges. The flowers are white or pink and star-like. They are 1.5 cm across. They occur in dense clusters. These are in the axils of upper leaves. The fruit is bristly and deep purple-brown. The plant turns purplish-red after petals drop.
There are about 70-75 Calytrix species.
Where it is found
It grows in heathlands near the coast. It is a temperate plant. They require well drained, light textured soil. Soils of low nutrient content are best. It can grow in semiarid places. It suits hardiness zones 8-10. 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
Fruit
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seeds or cuttings. Seeds are difficult to germinate. Cuttings root easily.