Silky Bluebush
Maireana villosa

Family: Amaranthaceae

What it is like

A small shrub. The young growth is hairy. The branches are slender and spreading. The leaves are 0.5-1.2 cm long by 0.1-0.2 cm wide. They are narrowly oval and flattened. They are covered with soft hairs. The tip is pointed. The flowers occur singly or in pairs. The flower envelope or fruit is 0.7-1 cm long. It is creamy-green and becomes brown. It has papery wings.

There are 57 Maireana species. They grow in Australia. Also put in the family Chenopodiaceae.

Where it is found

It grows in inland Australia. It grows on gravelly red earths and shallow soils. It suits arid and semi-arid regions. It is hardy to frosts and can tolerate drought.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The plant is used as a herb during cooking.

Edible parts

Plant - herb

How it is grown

It is grown from seed. Seed germinate in 10-20 days. It can also be grown from cuttings.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Kochia villosa Lindley;