Flame heath
Astroloma conostephioides

Family: Ericaceae

What it is like

A stiff shrub. It grows to 1 m high and spreads to 60 cm wide. The stems are hairy. The leaves are very narrow and 1-2 cm long. The edges are rolled under. They end in a sharp point. They are grey. The flowers are bright red. They are like tubes and 2 cm long. They occur singly in the axils of leaves and hang down. The fruit are pulpy berries.

There are about 20 Astroloma species.

Where it is found

It can grow in subtropical, temperate and semiarid regions. It grows in heath and open forest. It can grow in moist well drained or dry soils. It can tolerate heavy frosts.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from cuttings. These are difficult to root. New growth cuttings grown under mist is suitable.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Styphelia behril J.Black;