Currant Bush
Antidesma parvifolium
Family: Phyllanthaceae
What it is like
A spreading shrub or small tree. It grows 1.5-3 m high and spreads 1-2 m wide. Young shoots are slightly hairy. The leaves are 1.5-2.5 cm long by 0.5 cm wide. They are oval and blunt. It has a dense foliage. It loses its leaves during winter. Male and female flowers occur on separate plants. The male spike is 1-2.5 cm long and in the axils of leaves. The female stalk is 0.5-1.5 cm long. The fruit are 0.4 cm long and red.
There are about 100-170 Antidesma species.
Where it is found
It is a tropical plant. It grows in coastal scrubs. In north Queensland it grows from sea level to 900 m altitude. It also occurs on sandstone escarpments. It needs good drainage and regular watering. It occurs in southern Papua New Guinea.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin), Papua New Guinea, Torres Strait
How it is used for food
The ripe fruit can be eaten raw. The fruit are used for jams and jellies.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings.
Its other names
Local names
Anyuku, Mergey