Emu berry, Dysentery Plant
Grewia latifolia
Family: Malvaceae
What it is like
A medium sized shrub. It grows 4-6 m high and spreads 1-2 m wide. The young growth is hairy. The leaves are 3-15 cm long and 2.5-13 cm wide. They can be broadly oval or have 3 lobes. There are coarse teeth along the edges. Leaves are dark green above and paler underneath. They are slightly hairy on top and woolly underneath. The leaf stalks are 0.5-2 cm long. The flowers are about 0.7 cm across. They are greenish. The fruit are 1.2-1.5 cm across and have 4 lobes.
There are about 200 Grewia species. They are mostly tropical. The fruit of most may be edible. These were in the Sparrmanniaceae and the Tiliaceae.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. It grows in rainforests and moist locations in warm temperate climates. They need to be in a shady position.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, Malaysia, SE Asia, Singapore
How it is used for food
The fruit are acid and can be used in curries and chutneys.
Edible parts
Fruit, nuts
How it is grown
Plants are grown from fresh seed. The flesh is removed before sowing. The germination can be improved by pouring boiling water over them and allowing to soak for 24 hours.
Its other names
Local names
Chenderai gajah, Damak-damak bulu, Dog’s Balls, Tajam damak