Muntries, Native apple, Muntari, Pink Buttons
Kunzea pomifera
Family: Myrtaceae
What it is like
A spreading, ground covering plant. It spreads 2-3 m wide. Young growth is hairy. The branches lie along the ground and often form roots. They can be trained to climb up a trellis. The leaves are 0.4-0.8 cm long by 0.5 cm wide. The leaves are crisp and curled and have a smell. The flowers occur in masses. The flower heads are 2 cm across. The flowers are 1.2 cm across. They are fluffy and white or cream. The fruit are bluish berries. They are 0.5-1.5 cm wide. They are edible.
There are about 35 Kunzea species. They grow in Australia. They are rich in antioxidants.
Where it is found
It grows in temperate, semiarid regions. It grows naturally in dry sandy desert areas and along the coast. It requires a sunny, very well drained position. It is damaged by waterlogging. It can grow in light shade. It can stand heavy frosts. It needs a pH of 6-8. It can grow in arid places. It suits hardiness zones 9-11.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin), Britain, Europe, New Zealand, Tasmania
How it is used for food
The fruit are eaten. They can be eaten raw or used in pies. They can be pickled or used for wine. They can be used in chutneys, pickles, relishes, sauces, and muffins. The fruit can be pounded, dried and stored.
It has been an important food for aboriginal people. It is now cultivated.
Edible parts
Fruit
How it is grown
Plants are grown from seed. They can also be grown from cuttings or rooted stems. Fruit are formed on new season's growth. Pruning stem tips can increase branching and more fruiting shoots. A spacing of 1-2 m is suitable. They can be grow up a trellis.
It grows reasonably fast. Seedlings can start fruiting after 3-4 years and cuttings after 2 years. There can be up to 2 kg of fruit per bush.
Its other names
Local names
Monterry, Munter, Ngurp