Southern heath, Ground berry
Acrotriche serrulata

Family: Ericaceae

What it is like

An evergreen shrub. It grows to 0.3 m high and spreads to 0.5 m across. The stem lies along the ground and is like a creeper. The branches stick upwards 15-30 cm. The leaves and narrow and taper towards the ends. They are small (0.7 cm long). The leaves have hairy edges and the edges roll under. The leaf stalks are pressed close to the stem. The flowers are green and tube shaped. The fruit are berries and green. There are 5-6 seeds. The flowers grow on old season's growth.

There are 14 Acrotriche species. They are in Australia.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. A plant native to eastern Australia. It prefers light well drained soils. It suits an open sunny position or in light shade. It is drought and frost resistant. Tasmania Herbarium.

Countries/locations it is found in

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

How it is used for food

Nectar can be sucked from the lower parts of the flower. The flowers can be soaked in water to make a drink. The fruit can also be eaten.

Edible parts

Fruit, flowers, nectar

How it is grown

It can be grown from cuttings. This is somewhat difficult. They are usually slow to strike.

Its other names

Local names

Ant’s delight, Burgil-burgil, Honey-pots

Synonyms

Acrotriche affinis DC.; Acrotriche patula Hook.f. non R. Br. ;