Native cranberry, Cranberry heath, Tasmanian cranberry
Astroloma humifusum

Family: Ericaceae

What it is like

A small shrub which is close to the ground. It grows 10-30 cm tall and spread 60-100 cm wide. It has many branches. The leaves are narrow and stiff. They have a spine at the tip. Leaves are 5-12 mm long with hairy edges. The flowers are like tubes and are bright red. The fruit are greenish and 7-11 mm across. The fruit can often have purplish spots or stripes. There is one large stone inside. The fruit is edible.

There are about 20 Astroloma species.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. It grows naturally in heathlands and woodlands on sandy and stony soil. It can grow in moist well-drained or dry soils. It can stand heavy frosts. It suits shady understorey locations. Hobart Botanical Gardens. Tasmania Herbarium.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin), Tasmania (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The fruit are eaten. They can also be used for jam.

The fruit are enjoyed.

Edible parts

Fruit

How it is grown

It can be grown from cuttings but this is not easy. Tip cuttings are used.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Styphelia humifusa Pers.; Ventenatia humifusa Cav.;