Uses For Native Plants of The Mornington Peninsula

STATEMENT OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
This statement is written acknowledging the Boon Wurrung / Bunurong people, traditional
custodians of these lands and waters. We pay respect all traditional custodians and to their Elders,
past and present. Without their contributions and knowledge, creation of this document would not
be possible.
COLLECTING BUSH TUCKER

A permit is required to collect native plant material from public land. Native plant material includes
flowers, seeds, leaves, cuttings, and any other part of the plant.
Never eat plants that are growing in an area where they may have been sprayed with chemicals
(pest or weed control), or where the water supply to the area could be polluted, such as from urban
or industrial run-off.
Many plants are toxic and indigestible to humans. Never eat any part of any wild growing plant
unless you are absolutely certain you can identify it.
Bush tucker plants and produce are available for purchase at many nurseries and food retailers.
ABOUT THIS BOOK

The information in this book has been compiled during 2017 as part of a Work for the Dole research
project. This activity was funded by the Australian Government and hosted by Advance Community
College at the Hastings Community Hub.
The plants in this book are indigenous to the Mornington Peninsula and are listed in alphabetical
order according to their scientific name. Where possible we have included the indigenous language
name for the plant, from many different language groups. The language group (in brackets) follows
the indigenous name.
The height and width indicated are the expected maximum size of the plant, but environmental
conditions and other factors may limit or enhance growth.
The plant type indicated is a general description of the plant; some species may potentially fall into
two or more categories.
The stated flowering period may also vary depending on environmental conditions and other factors.
To help identify each plant a photograph has been sourced along with a written description of its
physical attributes.
Derivation of name explains the meaning and origin for the plant names and any other relevant
issues with regards to its common or indigenous name.
We have done our best to find what Indigenous Australians used each plant for, whether it is food,
tools medicinal or something more specific.
Propagation and maintenance notes have been written to assist if you decide to grow any of these
species yourself.
Uses for Native Plants of the Mornington Peninsula
Acacia dealbata ........................................... 6 Grey Saltbush, Coast Saltbush .............. 21

Silver Wattle ............................................ 6 Banksia integrifolia ................................... 22
Acacia longifolia .......................................... 7 Coast Banksia ........................................ 22
Acacia sophorae .......................................... 7 Banksia marginata .................................... 23
Coast Wattle............................................ 7 Silver Banksia ........................................ 23
Golden Rods ............................................ 7 Billardiera scandens .................................. 24
Acacia mearnsii ........................................... 8 Common Apple-berry ........................... 24
Black Wattle ............................................ 8 Bolboschoenus caldwellii .......................... 25
Acacia melanoxylon .................................... 9 Bolboschoenus medianus ......................... 25
Blackwood ............................................... 9 Sea Clubsedge ....................................... 25
Acacia verticillata ...................................... 10 Marsh Club-rush ................................... 25
Prickly Moses ........................................ 10 Bulbine bulbosa ........................................ 26
Acrotriche prostrata.................................. 11 Bulbine Lily ............................................ 26
Trailing Ground-berry ........................... 11 Burchardia umbellata ............................... 27
Acrotriche serrulata .................................. 12 Milkmaids.............................................. 27
Honey Pots ............................................ 12 Caladenia dilatata ..................................... 28
Alisma plantago-aquatica ......................... 13 Green-comb Spider-orchid ................... 28
Water Plantain ...................................... 13 Carex appressa .......................................... 29
Mad Dog Weed ..................................... 13 Carex breviculmis ...................................... 29
Allocasuarina littoralis............................... 14 Tall Sedge .............................................. 29
Black Sheoak ......................................... 14 Common Grass-sedge ........................... 29
Allocasuarina verticillata ........................... 15 Carpobrotus rossii ..................................... 30
Drooping Sheoak ................................... 15 Karkalla ................................................. 30
Alyxia buxifolia .......................................... 16 Pigface................................................... 30
Sea Box .................................................. 16 Centipeda cunninghamii ........................... 31
Apium prostratum..................................... 17 Sneezeweed .......................................... 31
Sea Celery.............................................. 17 Chamaescilla corymbosa .......................... 32
Arthropodium milleflorum........................ 18 Blue Stars .............................................. 32
Pale Vanilla-lily ...................................... 18 Clematis aristata ....................................... 33
Arthropodium strictum ............................. 19 Clematis microphylla ................................ 33
Chocolate Lily ........................................ 19 Mountain Clematis, Goats Beard .......... 33
Astroloma humifusum .............................. 20 Small-leaved Clematis ........................... 33
Cranberry Heath.................................... 20 Convolvulus arvensis................................. 34
Atriplex cinerea ......................................... 21 Convolvulus angustissimus ....................... 34
Page 3 of 86
Australian Bindweed ............................. 34 Burgan ................................................... 48

Pink Bindweed....................................... 34 Kunzea pomifera ....................................... 49
Coprosma quadrifida ................................ 35 Muntries................................................ 49
Prickly Currant Bush .............................. 35 Leptospermum lanigerum ........................ 50
Correa alba ................................................ 36 Woolly Tea-tree .................................... 50
White Correa ......................................... 36 Leptospermum petersonii ........................ 51
Dianella admixta ....................................... 37 Lemon Scented Tea Tree ...................... 51
Dianella laevis ........................................... 37 Leucopogon parviflorus ............................ 52
Dianella longifolia ..................................... 37 Coast beard-heath ................................ 52
Dianella revoluta ....................................... 37 Lomandra longifolia .................................. 53
Flax-lily .................................................. 37 Spiny-headed Mat-rush ........................ 53
Dicksonia antarctica .................................. 38 Melaleuca ericifolia................................... 54
Soft Tree-fern ........................................ 38 Swamp Paperbark ................................. 54
Dipodium punctatum ................................ 39 Microseris lanceolata ................................ 55
Hyacinth Orchid .................................... 39 Yam Daisy .............................................. 55
Dodonea viscosa ....................................... 40 Muehlenbeckia adpressa .......................... 56
Hop Bush ............................................... 40 Climbing Lignum ................................... 56
Enchylaena tomentose ............................. 41 Myoporum insulare .................................. 57
Ruby Saltbush........................................ 41 Boobiala ................................................ 57
Eucalyptus obliqua .................................... 42 Pelargonium australe ................................ 58
Messmate Stringybark .......................... 42 Austral Stork’s-bill ................................. 58
Eucalyptus viminalis subsp. pryoriana ...... 43 Persoonia juniperina ................................. 59
Coast Manna-gum ................................. 43 Prickly Geebung .................................... 59
Exocarpos cupressiformis ......................... 44 Phragmites australis ................................. 60
Cherry Ballart ........................................ 44 Common Reed ...................................... 60
Exocarpos strictus ..................................... 45 Poa labillardierei ....................................... 61
Pale-fruit Ballart .................................... 45 Common Tussock-grass ........................ 61
Geranium potentilloides ........................... 46 Podolepis jaceoides .................................. 62
Geranium sp. 2 .......................................... 46 Showy Podolepis ................................... 62
Soft Cranesbill ....................................... 46 Prostanthera rotundifolia ......................... 63
Variable Cranesbill ................................ 46 Native Round Leaf Mint ........................ 63
Kennedia prostrata ................................... 47 Pteridium esculentum .............................. 64
Running Postman .................................. 47 Bracken Fern ......................................... 64
Kunzea ericoides ....................................... 48 Rhagodia candolleana ............................... 65
Page 4 of 86
Sea-berry Salt Bush ............................... 65 Kangaroo Grass ..................................... 76

Rubus parvifolius....................................... 66 Thysanotus tuberosus............................... 77
Native Raspberry ................................... 66 Common Fringe-lily ............................... 77
Sambucus gaudichaudiana ....................... 67 Triglochin procera ..................................... 78
Native Elderberry .................................. 67 Water Ribbons ...................................... 78
Sarcocornia quinqueflora.......................... 68 Typha domingensis ................................... 79
Beaded Glasswort ................................. 68 Typhaceae domingensis............................ 79
Solanum aviculare ..................................... 69 Typhaceae orientalis ................................ 79
Kangaroo Apple ..................................... 69 Narrowleaf Cumbungi ........................... 79
Solanum laciniatum .................................. 70 Broadleaf Cumbungi ............................. 79
Large Kangaroo Apple ........................... 70 Bulrush .................................................. 79
Suaeda australis ........................................ 71 Viola Banksii .............................................. 80
Seablite.................................................. 71 Ivy-leaf Violet ........................................ 80
Syzygium australe ..................................... 72 Wahlenbergia stricta................................. 81
Lilly Pilly ................................................. 72 Sprawling Bluebell ................................ 81
Tasmannia lanceolata ............................... 73 Wurmbea dioica........................................ 82
Mountain Pepper .................................. 73 Early Nancy ........................................... 82
Tetragonia implexicoma ........................... 74 Xanthorrhoea australis ............................. 83
Bower Spinach ...................................... 74 Xanthorrhoea minor subsp. lutea ............. 83
Tetragonia tetragonioides ........................ 75 Austral Grass-tree ................................. 83
Warrigal Greens .................................... 75 Small Grass-tree .................................... 83
Themeda triandra ..................................... 76
Page 5 of 86
Acacia dealbata
Common name(s) Silver Wattle
Indigenous name(s) Muyan, Giigandul
(Wurundjeri)
Warrarak (Djadja
wurrung)
Height, Width To 30m high
Plant Type Canopy Tree photo by Eugene Zelenko
Flowering Period July to November
Description:
A perennial tree up to 30m with silvery leaves 1-12cm long by 1-11cm broad. The flowers are made
up of numerous smaller bright yellow flower heads and the fruit is a flattened pod 2-11.5cm long by
6-14mm broad.
Derivation of Name:
Acacia; Greek, a derivative from the name akakia referring to a thorny wattle on the Nile River in
Egypt. Dealbata; from Latin, meaning ‘covered with white powder’.
Uses:
The bark has lots of cracks, making it stringy and ideal for string and rope making. The bark is also
known to ooze resin which was prised by Aboriginal people who found it useful for waterproofing
and gluing tools together, such as stone axe heads to a wooden handle. The resin was also eaten
and could be mixed with ash from burnt bark and applied to wounds and sores. The wood was used
widely to make digging sticks while the gum was dissolved in water to make a mild sweet drink and
also mixed with ash for use as resin. The seed pods yield another important food source by grinding
the pods between two grinding stones to make flour, which could then be used to make bread.
Fallen wattle flowers were used to fish for eels, as they feed on a particular grub that lives in the
flowers.
Propagation and maintenance notes:

The plant is best grown in loamy types of soil and can be positioned in full sun to full shade, with
acidic or neutral soil pH. It is intolerant of any degree of salt.
Page 6 of 86
Acacia longifolia
Acacia sophorae
Common name(s) Coast Wattle
Golden Rods
Sallow Wattle
Indigenous name(s) Nal-a-wort (Buandig)
Height, Width 8m high x 4m wide
photo by: Donald Hobern
Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub
Flowering Period July to October
Description:
A perennial, prostrate shrub reaching up to 8m by 4m. The oval leaves are 50-100mm long with
prominent longitudinal veins. The bright yellow flowers occur as elongated spikes up to 50mm long
in the leaves.
Derivation of Name:
Egypt. Longifolia; from the Latin word meaning ‘long leaves,’ a reference to the generally long
foliage. Sophorae; derivation uncertain, possibly similar to some species in the genus Sophora.
Note: Acacia sophorae is regarded by some authorities as a subspecies of Acacia longifolia which is
usually much taller although the plants are very similar in other respects.
Uses:
Food (flowers, seeds and seed pods), yellow dye (from the flowers), green dye (pods) and wood.
The tree's bark had limited use in tanning, primarily for sheepskin. The seed was roasted and
ground, giving a brown mustard colour and a nutty coffee-like flavour.

The plant is best grown in well-drained, sandy types of soil and can be positioned in full sun to full
shade with adequate watering. It has some degree of salt tolerance.
Page 7 of 86
Acacia mearnsii
Common name(s) Black Wattle
Indigenous name(s) Garrong (Wurundjeri)
Warrarakk (Djab wurrung)
Currong (Lake Condah)
Garrong (Woi wurrung)
Height, Width 5-15m high
Plant Type Canopy Tree photo by: Forest and Kim Starr
Flowering Period October to December
Description:
An perennial tree that grows 5-15m high with dark green leaves to 4mm. Flowers are pale yellow or
cream with globular flower heads in large, fragrant sprays. Fruits are dark brown pods and finely
hairy.
Derivation of Name:
Egypt. Mearnsii; named after A.R Mearns, an American army surgeon who collected a specimen
from a cultivated tree in Kenya.
Uses:
The plant was an important source of gum, used as a glue to make and repair tools. A sweet drink
could also be made when the gum and flower nectar were dissolved in water.

The plant is best grown in a damp, well-drained, loamy type of soil and can be positioned in full sun
to full shade. It is intolerant of any degree of salt.
Page 8 of 86
Acacia melanoxylon
Common name(s) Blackwood
Indigenous name(s) Burn-Na-Look
(Wurundjeri)
Mootch-Ong (Jardwadjali)
Plant Type Canopy Tree
Flowering Period August to October photo by: Lachlan Knowles
Description:
A perennial dark brown tree growing around 6-30m in height with wood that is deeply furrowed. It
produces masses of pale yellow flowers in clusters.
Derivation of Name:
Egypt. Melanoxylon; from the Latin words melās meaning ‘black’ and ksulon meaning ‘wood.’
Uses:
The bark was used to treat aching joints by heating the bark over a fire and infusing in water. The
very hard wood was used to make shields, clubs and spear-throwers. The seeds were collected and
ground into flour for cooking while twigs and bark were also used to poison fish as a way of fishing.
Indigenous Australians derived an analgesic from the tree while other medicinal purposes included
a body wash to treat cuts and sores, as a mouthwash and to treat infection and stomach cramps.

The plant is best grown in damp, loam soils and can be positioned in full sun to full shade. It has a
moderate degree of salt tolerance.
Page 9 of 86
Acacia verticillata
Common name(s) Prickly Moses
Indigenous name(s) Berrigan (Wiradjuri)*
Height, Width Up to 6m
Fruiting Period November to January
photo by: A. Barra
Description:
A perennial shrub growing to around 6m, with an often rounded shape. The leaves are dark green,
spine-like, to 2cm, in whorls around the stem and pale yellow flowers appear on short spikes, up to
1cm long.
Derivation of Name:
Egypt. Verticillata; from the Latin word verticillus meaning ‘whorl’, referring to the leaves arranged
in whorls.
*This name is generally used for all Acacia sp.
Uses:
Aboriginal people ate the seeds, which are high in protein and carbohydrates, and hung the
blossoms near where they slept to help induce sleep.

The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained, clay or sandy soils and flourishes best in full shade. It
has some degree of salt tolerance and prefers alkaline soil pH.
Excellent bird habitat. Prune following flowering to keep bushy.
Page 10 of 86
Acrotriche prostrata
Common name(s) Trailing Ground-berry
Indigenous name(s) Unknown
Height, Width 15cm to 2m high
Plant Type Ground Cover
Flowering Period May to September
photo by: Laura Levens
Description:
An open, prostrate, perennial plant, growing from 15cm to 2m with the shorter branches being
hairy and triangular leaves around 4-16mm x 1-8mm. Dense spikes of small tubular flowers with
open lobes and succulent egg-shaped fruit.
Derivation of Name:
Acrotriche; from the Greek words akron meaning ‘summit’ and thrix meaning ‘hair’; alluding to the
tuft of hairs at the tip of the petal lobes. Prostrata; from Latin, meaning ‘prostrate’, referring to the
growing habits of the plant.
Uses:
The nectar from flowers could be drunk and the fruit was eaten raw.

The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained, soils and flourishes best in full sun or partial shade.
Page 11 of 86
Acrotriche serrulata
Common name(s) Honey Pots
Indigenous name(s) Burgil-burgil (Coranderrk,
Wurundjeri)
Height, Width 10-30cm x 0.5-1m
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period May to October
photo by: Lisette Mill
Description:
A dense, mounding shrub that grows from 10-30cm x 0.5-1m with small soft needle-like leaves 3.5-
11mm long. The leaves and branchlets are covered in fine hairs while translucent tubular flowers
are filled with nectar, clustered on old wood. Small round white fruit.
Derivation of Name:
Acrotriche; from the Greek words akron meaning ‘summit’ and thrix meaning ‘hair’; alluding to the
tuft of hairs at the tip of the petal lobes. Serrulata; from the Latin word serrulatus meaning ‘small-
toothed,’ referring to leaf margins.
Uses:
The nectar was sucked from directly flowers or they were soaked in water to make a sweet drink.

The plant is best grown in damp soils and flourishes best in partial shade.
Page 12 of 86
Alisma plantago-aquatica
Common name(s) Water Plantain
Mad Dog Weed
Height, Width Stems to 1m
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period June to August
photo by: Christian Fischer
Description:
A perennial plant that grows in shallow water, consisting of a fibrous root, several basal long
stemmed leaves 15-30cm long, and a triangular stem up to 1m tall. It has branched
inflorescence bearing numerous small flowers, 1cm across, with three round or slightly jagged,
white or pale purple petals. The flowers open in the afternoon. There are three blunt green sepals,
and six stamens per flower. The carpels often exist as a flat single whorl.
Derivation of Name:
Alisma; the ancient Greek name for a plantain-leaved plant. Plantago; from the Latin word planta
meaning ‘sole of a foot,’ referring to the flat leaves that are similar to leaves of the
genus Plantago. Aquatica; from the Latin aquaticus meaning ‘living in water,’ referring to the
plant’s habitat.
The plant is also known as mad-dog weed, alluding to its use as a cure for rabies.
Uses:
A powder prepared from dried roots is used in popular medicine as a cure for rabies and crushed
leaves are used against mammary congestion while fresh leaves are employed in homeopathy.
The roots have been used as a traditional medicine but may have serious side effects.

The plant can only grow in water free of salt, and flourishes best in full sun.
Page 13 of 86
Allocasuarina littoralis
Common name(s) Black Sheoak
Indigenous name(s) Wayetuck (Woi wurrung)
Gneering (Gunditjmara)
Flowering Period September to November
photo by: John Tann
Description:
A small, narrow tree between 6m and 15m high with dark grey bark and needle like foliage. The
fruit are 10-30mm in length and flat topped.
Derivation of Name:
Allocasuarina; from the neo-Latin word casuarius, meaning ‘cassowary,’ referring to the
resemblance of the drooping branchlets to the feathers of the cassowary bird. Allos; from Greek,
meaning ‘other,’ referring to the relationship with the genus Casuarina. Littoralis; from Latin,
meaning ‘of the shore, seashore or coast.’
Uses:
The wood was used to make boomerangs and other tools.

The plant is best grown in clay or sandy soils and flourishes best in partial shade. It has some degree
of salt tolerance and prefers alkaline or acidic soil pH.
Page 14 of 86
Allocasuarina verticillata
Common name(s) Drooping Sheoak
Indigenous name(s) Wayetuck (Woi wurrung)
Gneering (Gunditjmara)
Brakbrak (L.Hindmarsh)
Height, Width Up to 10m high
Flowering Period March to December photo by: John Tann
Description:
A small tree to 10m height with dark grey bark. The crown of the tree has drooping branchlets,
about 0.8cm thick, to 40cm long. Male flowers are yellowish-brown. Cones on female trees are 2-
3cm wide and barrel shaped.
Derivation of Name:
Allocasuarina; from the neo-Latin word casuarius, meaning ‘cassowary,’ referring to the
resemblance of the drooping branchlets to the feathers of the cassowary bird. Allos; from Greek,
meaning ‘other,’ referring to the relationship with the genus Casuarina. Verticillata; from the Latin
word verticillatus meaning ‘whorl,’ referring to the leaves arranged in whorls.
Uses:
The timber was used by Aboriginal people to make handles for stone axes, which were fixed using
string and resin from other plants. Wood was also used to make boomerangs and other
implements.
Young shoots and cones could be eaten. Toothache and other pains were relieved by a gargle made
from the sapwood and bark.

The plant is best grown in dry, well-drained soil types and full sun to full shade. It has some degree
of salt and lime tolerance.
photo by: Tindo2
Page 15 of 86
Alyxia buxifolia
Common name(s) Sea Box
Height, Width 50cm to 2m high
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period Spring to Autumn
Fruiting Period December to February
photo by: Melburnian
Description:
A perennial shrub growing to around 3m in height, but in sheltered positions (under eucalypts) can
grow taller. The branches are held upright, but with opposite oval leaves they can become quite
bushy, although in very dry exposed locations plants can also be short, open and sparse. The small
tubular orange and white flowers grow to around 1cm long.
Derivation of Name:
Alyxia; from the Greek word alysis meaning ‘a chain or an escape,’ which may refer to the chain
fruit or indicate the remote areas in which it was found. Buxifolia; from buxus, the genus of ancient
box tree and the Latin folium meaning ‘leaf,’ referring to the species having leaves like the
boxwood.
Uses:
The Aboriginal people used the bark to treat dysentery. The fruit is eaten by birds but is toxic to
humans.

The plant is best grown in sandy, loamy soil types and placed in partial shade. It has some degree of
salt and lime tolerance.
Page 16 of 86
Apium prostratum
Common name(s) Sea Celery
Height, Width To 70cm
Flowering Period October to May
photo by: Zaareo
Description:
A perennial ground covering plant with branches from 30-70cm long and leaves 2-40cm long. The
flowers are in small clusters 3.5-7cm wide on short stalks to 20mm long.
Sea Celery can be found growing wild along the southern coastline of Australia. A close relative of
European parsley, this drought-tolerant, frost-tolerant plant loves the sun, but can still thrive in
dappled shade. Small white flower clusters will provide ample seeds toward the end of summer.
Derivation of Name:
Apium; the ancient Latin name for celery or parsley. Prostratum; from Latin, meaning ‘flat, on the
ground or prostrate,’ referring to the growing habit.
Uses:
The young shoots were used as a flavoursome herb or vegetable which reportedly tastes of both
celery and parsley with a little saltiness and some residual bitterness.

The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained soil types and positioned in partial shade. It has some
degree of salt and prefers acidic or neutral soil pH.
Page 17 of 86
Arthropodium milleflorum
Common name(s) Pale Vanilla-lily
Indigenous name(s) Bo-an (Bunganditj-SA)
Height, Width 0.3-1.3m x 30cm
Plant Type Lily
Flowering Period September to February
photo by: Nathan Johnson
Description:
A tufted perennial herb growing between 0.3-1.3m x 30cm with small plump tubers at the end of
roots and narrow, flat, spreading, slightly fleshy leaves to 40cm x 1-25mm. When flowering, 2-9
pale pink, pale mauve or white flowers form at the nodes.
Derivation of Name:
Arthropodium; from the Greek words arthron meaning ‘a joint’ and podion meaning ‘a little foot,’
alluding to the jointed pedicels. Milleflorum; from the Latin words mille meaning ‘a thousand’ and
floris meaning ‘flowers.’
Uses:
The non-starchy crisp tubers were eaten either raw or cooked.

The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained soil types and positioned in full sun to full shade. It
prefers acidic or neutral soil pH and is salt intolerant.
Plants may be propagated from seed or by dividing the tubers.
Page 18 of 86
Arthropodium strictum
Common name(s) Chocolate Lily
Height, Width 0.2-1m x 0.2-0.8m
Plant Type Lily
Flowering Period September to December
Description:
A tufted perennial herb growing between 0.2-1m x 0.2-0.8m and having narrow, flat, leaves around
10-60cm x 1-10mm. The branched flowering stems have single fragrant flowers on erect stalks
around 35mm long and are a deep pink or mauve colour.
Derivation of Name:
Arthropodium; from the Greek words arthron meaning ‘a joint’ and podion meaning ‘a little foot,’
alluding to the jointed pedicels. Strictus; from Latin meaning ‘erect or upright,’ referring to the
species habit.
Uses:
The tubers were eaten either raw or roasted.

The plant is best grown in loam or sandy well-drained soil types and positioned in full sun or partial
shade and is salt intolerant.
Page 19 of 86
Astroloma humifusum
Common name(s) Cranberry Heath
Indigenous name(s) Bagud (Wergaia)
Height, Width 20-50cm x 50-150cm
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period February to June
Description:
A spreading perennial shrub up to 50cm high and 0.5-1.5m across with pine-like leaves 0.5-1.2cm
long. The tubular flowers are up to 2cm long and red in color. Flowers are followed by green
globular berries around 0.4-0.6cm across.
Derivation of Name:
Astroloma; from the Greek words astron meaning ‘star’ and loma meaning ‘fringe,’ alluding to the
tufts of hair inside the corolla tube. Humifusum; from the Latin humus meaning ‘low-growing,’
alluding to its prostrate habit.
Uses:
The edible berries can be used to make jams and preserves with a sweet flavour.

The plant is best grown in well-drained, dry clay or sandy soils and positioned in full sun or partial
shade. It is salt intolerant.
Page 20 of 86
Atriplex cinerea
Common name(s) Grey Saltbush, Coast
Saltbush
Indigenous name(s) Tyulern (Vic)*
Height, Width To 1m x 2m
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period August to January
photo by: Lachlan Knowles
Description:
A perennial shrub up to 1m high and 2m wide, with silver-grey lance-shaped to oblong leaves, up to
10cm long with a blunt apex and a short stalk.
Derivation of Name:
Atriplex; from the Latin word atriplexum meaning ‘an orache,’ or saltbush, an Ancient Latin name
for this plant. Cinerea; from Latin meaning ‘ashy-grey,’ alluding to the grey appearance of the plant.
*Indigenous name is for Atriplex nummularia, a similar plant.
Uses:
The leaves were steeped in water to remove salt, rinsed thoroughly, and then eaten as greens.

The plant is best grown in free draining, sandy soils of an alkaline pH and positioned in full sun. It
has some degree of salt tolerance.
Easy to grow from cuttings. Plant layers itself producing adventitious roots off decumbent stems.
Seed and cuttings may be collected at any time. Cuttings establish well in river sand.
Page 21 of 86
Banksia integrifolia
Common name(s) Coast Banksia
Indigenous name(s) Birrna (Gunai/Kurnai)
War-rak (Wurundjeri)
Flowering Period February to July
photo by: John Tann
Description:
A perennial tree that grows between 4 and 20m high. The leaves are around 10cm x 2cm, smooth
and dark green on the upper face, with a white underside. The creamy yellow flowers are around
10cm x 4cm, arranged in tall spikes.
Derivation of Name:
Banksia; named after Sir Joseph Banks, the botanist who travelled with Captain Cook. Integrifolia;
from the Latin integer, meaning ‘entire,’ and folium, meaning ‘leaf.’
Uses:
The nectar was extracted from flower heads by brushing hands against the flower, and then licking
the fingers clean. Flowers were also soaked in water to make a sweet drink which was often mixed
with wattle gum.

The plant is best grown in acidic or neutral pH soils and positioned in full sun. It has some degree of
lime tolerance but is intolerant of salt.
Page 22 of 86
Banksia marginata
Common name(s) Silver Banksia
Indigenous name(s) War-Rak, Woorike
(Wurundjeri)
Height, Width 1-12m
Flowering Period February to July
Immature Mature photos by: JJ Harrison
Description:
A perennial shrub or tree between 1-12m tall with leaves up to 6cm x 1.3cm, smooth and dark
green on the upper face, with a white underside. The creamy yellow flowers are around 10cm x
4cm, arranged in tall spikes.
Derivation of Name:
Banksia; named after Sir Joseph Banks, the botanist who travelled with Captain Cook. Marginata;
from the Latin word marginatus meaning ‘bordered,’ referring to some forms in which the leaf
margins are rolled-under.
Uses:
The flowers were soaked in water to extract the nectar and make a sweet drink. Curved branches
were worked and shaped into boomerangs. As long as they were fresh the single flowers could be
removed from the flower head and used as brushes to apply ceremonial makeup or paint. Any of
the old, dry, flower heads were used as strainers and to carry fire from one campsite to the next.

The plant is best grown in well-drained soils and positioned in full sun. It has some degree of salt
and lime tolerance.
Use fresh seed for propagation. Sow just beneath the soil from winter to spring, with germination
taking place within 4-8 weeks. Cuttings can be taken from plants between August and October
using firm young growth.
Page 23 of 86
Billardiera scandens
Common name(s) Common Apple-berry
Indigenous name(s) Karrawang (Coranderrk)
Garawang (Wurundjeri)
Height, Width To 1.5m x 3m
Plant Type Shrub
photo by: John Tann
Description:
A perennial shrub growing up to 1.5m high and 3m in width. The leaves alternate and are narrowly
ovate, hairy and 1-4mm long. The fruits are oblong in shape, reddish green or yellow in color and
20-28mm long.
Derivation of Name:
Billardiera; named after Jacques Julien de La Billardiere, a 19th century French botanist who visited
Western Australia and Tasmania. Scandens; from Latin meaning ‘to climb or sprawl,’ alluding to its
growing habit.
Uses:
The ripe fruit could be eaten directly off the plant, while unripe fruit was roasted, reportedly with a
taste like kiwi fruit.

The plant is best grown in well-drained, dry soils and positioned in full sun to full shade. It has some
degree of salt and lime tolerance. Flowers may also appear all year round.
Propagation is more difficult for B. scandens than other Billardiera species. Summer sown seed may
take up to 12 weeks to germinate in autumn. Treatments such as washing dried seeds in detergent,
or straining seed after fermentation in water for two weeks may improve germination. Firm tip
cuttings may be taken in summer.
Page 24 of 86
Bolboschoenus caldwellii
Bolboschoenus medianus
Common name(s) Sea Clubsedge
Marsh Club-rush
Indigenous name(s) Belillah (Lower Murray R.)
Woorpert (Lake Boga)*
Plant Type Grass, Sedge, or Rush Bolboschoenus caldwellii photo by: Harry Rose
Flowering Period October to April
Description:
B. caldwellii; A perennial sedge with smooth stems from 30-90cm high and 1-3.5mm diameter with
leaves 2-7mm wide. The flowerheads are spikelet clusters on 1-4cm long branches with lens-shaped
fruit, brown and 3.5-4mm long by 2.5-3mm diameter.
B. medianus; A perennial, creeping sedge growing to 2m high bearing hard globose tubers and with
three-sided stems. Grass-like, the leaves grow to 50cm long and 11mm wide. The flowers are
formed in clusters of red brown spikes.
Derivation of Name:
Bolboschoenus; from the Greek words bolbos meaning ‘a bulb’ and schoenus, a genus of
Cyperaceae from which it was considered separable by the swellings on the stem. Caldwellii; named
after A. C. Caldwell, an enthusiastic collector and student of indigenous flora. Medianus; from Latin,
meaning ‘in the middle.’
*This name is reported for B. medianus only, but may have been generally used for both sp.
Uses:
The roots were roasted and then eaten.

B. caldwellii; The plant is best grown in damp sandy soils with an alkaline or neutral pH and
positioned in partial sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance.
B. medianus; The plant is best grown in damp loam soils and positioned in full sun. It has some
degree of salt tolerance.
Page 25 of 86
Bulbine bulbosa
Common name(s) Bulbine Lily
Indigenous name(s) Pike (Wurundjeri)
Parm (Gunditjmara)
Puewan (Djab wurrung)
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period September to January photo by: Velela
Description:
A densely tufted perennial herb that grows to 75cm high. The leaves are green-grey leaves and
succulent, reaching 40cm in length while the bright yellow star-like flowers are approximately 2cm
wide.
Derivation of Name:
Bulbine; from Latin, meaning ‘bulbous’, referring to the bulb-shaped tuber of many members of this
genus. Bulbosa; from the Latin word bulbus meaning ‘bulb.’
Uses:
The corm bulb was roasted, giving a sweet taste, as well as being highly nutritious.

The plant is best grown in damp soil and positioned in partial sun. It is salt intolerant. Propagation
can be performed by seed or division.
Page 26 of 86
Burchardia umbellata
Common name(s) Milkmaids
Indigenous name(s) Popoto (Lake Condah)
Height, Width 10-65cm
Plant Type Shrub
Description:
A perennial herb growing 10-65cm in height, with narrow, fleshy leaves around 10-30cm x 3-6mm.
The white, terminal clusters of honey-scented flowers are up to 30mm wide. The erect triangular
seed capsules are green with white tips.
Derivation of Name:
Burchardia; named for German botanist Johann Heinrich Burckhardt. Umbellata; the Latin word for
umbrella, referring to the umbels of flowers.
Uses:
The potato-like tubers and roots were eaten either raw or cooked, having a textured flesh with a
starchy flavour.

The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained loam or sandy soils and positioned in partial sun. It is
salt intolerant.
Plants can be propagated from seeds.
Page 27 of 86
Caladenia dilatata
Common name(s) Green-comb Spider-orchid
Indigenous name(s) Koolin (Coranderrk)
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period November to December
photo by: denisbin
Description:
A slender, erect, perennial shrub growing to 40cm high with hairy lance-shaped leaves to 13cm long
x 15mm wide and single green flowers that have petals to 50mm long.
Derivation of Name:
Caladenia; is derived from the Ancient Greek words kalos meaning ‘beautiful’ and aden meaning ‘a
gland,’ referring to the colourful lip of the flower. Dilatata; from the Latin dilatare meaning ‘widen,
dilated or expanded,’ referring to the spreading segments or the petals which have expanded
glandular tips.
Uses:
The round, paired tubers were eaten.

The plant is best grown in well-drained soils and positioned in partial sun. It is salt intolerant.
Use of orchids in gardens is not recommended, unless they already occur naturally, in which case
they need to be protected. Removing orchids from the bush usually results in their death and
further depletes remaining wild orchid populations.
Page 28 of 86
Carex appressa
Carex breviculmis
Common name(s) Tall Sedge
Common Grass-sedge
Indigenous name(s) Bungud (Wemba Wemba)
Height, Width Various
Plant Type Grass, Sedge, or Rush
Carex breviculmis photo by: Keisotyo
Flowering Period Various
Description:
C. appressa: A densely tufted perennial sedge growing between 0.5-1.2m x 0.5-1m. The bright
green leaves are 2-12mm wide with long, narrow, yellow-brown flowerheads, around 4-45cm long.
The fruit is egg shaped and long haired.
Flowering: August to January.
C. breviculmis: A densely tufted perennial sedge growing to around 10-35cm x 20-40cm with dark
green leaves to 35cm x 2-3mm wide. Fruit with long hairs, pale green to yellow-brown.
Flowering: August to December.
Derivation of Name:
Carex; the classical Latin name for sedge, perhaps from carere meaning ‘to be absent,’ as the upper
spikes do not produce seeds. Appressa; from Greek, meaning ‘lying close together.’ Breviculmis;
from the Latin words brevi meaning ‘short’ and culmus meaning ‘stem,’ usually describing a grass.
Uses:
The long stems were commonly split into separate fibres for twine and basket making.

The plant is best grown in damp soil and positioned in full sun or partial sun. It has some degree of
salt tolerance.
Trim back by half every 2 to 3 years and fertilize with slow release fertilizer after trimming.
Page 29 of 86
Carpobrotus rossii
Common name(s) Karkalla
Pigface
Indigenous name(s) Wenddar (Tasmania)
Katwort ( Gippsland)
Puuyuupkil (Gunditjmara)
Gadwud (Gunai/Kurnai)
Keeng-a (Bunganditj) photo by: Lachlan Knowles
Height, Width To 1m across

Description:
A prostrate, succulent perennial plant with stems to 1m long and 11mm diameter. The leaves are
up to 10cm long and 11mm and flowers are large purple and daisy-like while the fleshy, fat red fruit
grows to 25mm long.
Derivation of Name:
Carpobrotus; from the Greek words karpos meaning ‘fruit’ and brotos meaning ‘edible,’ referring to
the succulent fruits which was eaten traditionally by Aboriginal people. Rossii; named after William
Ross, a college lecturer, scientist and botanical collector, who first collected the plant.
Uses:
The most valued parts of the plant were the sweet red tasty fruit, with a flavour compared to
strawberries, figs, kiwi fruit and raspberries. The fleshy leaves were also eaten cooked, and the juice
from the leaves was used to soothe blisters, burns and pain from insect bites.

The plant is best grown in dry, well-drained soils and positioned in partial sun. It has some degree of
salt tolerance.
Page 30 of 86
Centipeda cunninghamii
Common name(s) Sneezeweed
Indigenous name(s) Gukwonderuk
(Wotjobaluk)
Fruiting Period October to June photo by: Tony Rodd
Description:
An erect perennial herb growing about 20cm high with oblong leaves around 15mm long and 3-
4mm wide. The tiny green globular flowers are 4-8mm across while the fruit is about 2mm long.
Derivation of Name:
Centipeda; from the Latin words centi meaning ‘hundred’ and ped meaning ‘foot,’ referring to the
creeping stems. Cunninghamii; named after Allan Cunningham, an English botanist and explorer.
Uses:
Traditional methods of use most commonly involved binding leaves of the plant directly to the
forehead or other parts of the body, so that body heat would release the plants oils which were
then absorbed into the skin. The leaves and stems were also boiled down and used for the
treatment of coughs, colds and skin irritations. It is believed to be a “cure-all” for a wide range of
health problems, including arthritis.

The plant is best grown in damp soil and positioned in full sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance.
Easily grown from fresh seed and cuttings. Inclined to become invasive.
Page 31 of 86
Chamaescilla corymbosa
Common name(s) Blue Stars
Indigenous name(s) Mudrurt (Lake Condah)
Flowering Period August to November
Description:
A tufted perennial herb growing around 7-25cm x 10-20cm with slender tubers 2-3m long and dull
green grass-like leaves 5-20cm x 2-12mm. The upright branched terminal clusters of 2-10 bright
blue flowers are up to 15mm wide.
Derivation of Name:
Chamaescilla; from the Greek words chamai meaning ‘dwarf’ and skilla meaning ‘a squill or sea
onion,’ a liliaceous plant of the Mediterranean region. Corymbosa; from the Latin word corymbosus
meaning ‘a cluster of flowers.’
Uses:
The elongated were tubers eaten raw or cooked.

The plant is best grown in damp loam or sandy soils and positioned in partial sun. It is salt
intolerant.
Easily grown from seed. Fresh seed may produce best results. Seed has high viability, but it may be
difficult to collect enough, as plants tend to grow in low densities.
Page 32 of 86
Clematis aristata
Clematis microphylla
Common name(s) Mountain Clematis, Goats
Beard
Small-leaved Clematis
Indigenous name(s) Tarook (Gunditjmara,
Tjapwurong)*
Height, Width To 15m high photos by: Melburnian
Plant Type Creeper

Flowering Period August to March
Description:
C. arista; A woody climber up to 15m high with egg shaped leaves between 3-8cm x 1-5cm and
creamy white bunches of flowers.
C. microphylla; A dense climber reaching up to 5m with light green leaves to 30mm long and starry
clusters of cream coloured flowers.
Derivation of Name:
Clematis; from the Greek word klematis, the name of a plant (Clematis vitalba), itself derived from
klema, meaning ‘a twig,’ perhaps because of the twiggy branches. Aristata; from the Latin meaning
‘bearded,’ referring to the bristle-like appendage of the fruit. Microphylla; from the Greek words
micros meaning ‘small’ and phyllon meaning ‘leaf.’
*The name ‘Tarook’ was also given to the roots of the bindweed.
Uses:
The taproot was dug up and roasted.

C. arista; The plant is best grown in damp loam soil and positioned in partial sun or full shade. It is
salt intolerant.
C. microphylla; The plant is best grown in damp loam soil and positioned in partial sun or full shade.
It is salt intolerant.
Propagation can be carried out from fresh seed and from semi-hardened cuttings.
Page 33 of 86
Convolvulus arvensis
Convolvulus angustissimus
Common name(s) Australian Bindweed
Pink Bindweed
Indigenous name(s) Taaruuk (Gunditjmara,
Djab wurrung)*
Height, Width Up to 1.5m wide.
Plant Type Creeper Convolvulus angustissimus photo by: Harry Rose
Flowering Period September to April
Description:
A low, perennial creeper with thin, trailing or twining branches, spreading up to 1.5m. The leaves
are arrow-shaped and very narrow while flowers vary from white through to pink, 20mm wide and
funnel-shaped.
The two species are very similar with C. arvensis flowering two months earlier in the year.
Derivation of Name:
Convolvulus; from the Latin name for some types of bindweed, convolvere meaning ‘to roll together
or entwine.’ Angustissimus; from the Latin word angust meaning ‘narrow’ and the suffix issimus
meaning ‘to the greatest degree,’ possibly referring to the shape of the leaves.
*The name ‘Taaruuk’ was giving to the roots of the bindweed.
Uses:
The roots were boiled, kneaded into dough and then cooked to make a bread like food.

The plant is best grown in loam or sandy soils and positioned in full sun or full shade. It is salt
intolerant and prefers neutral or alkaline soil pH.
Page 34 of 86
Coprosma quadrifida
Common name(s) Prickly Currant Bush
Indigenous name(s) Morr (Coranderrk)
Height, Width 1-1.5m x 2-4m
Fruiting Period January to March
Description:
An erect, open shrub with fine spines on branches and growing to 1-1.5m x 2-4m in size. The dull
green elliptic leaves are around 5-15mm x 2-5mm. Edible red fruit are roughly spherical and up to
2cm across.
Derivation of Name:
Coprosma; from the Greek words kopros meaning ‘excrement,’ and osme meaning ‘smell,’ referring
to the fetid leaf smell on most species. Quadrifida; from the Latin words quadri meaning ‘four’ and
fida meaning ‘split into four parts.’
Uses:
The sweet currant-like fruits were eaten directly off the shrub when ripe.

The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained soils and positioned in full sun or full shade. It is salt
intolerant.
Page 35 of 86
Correa alba
Common name(s) White Correa
Height, Width Up to 1.5 high
Flowering Period June to October
photo by: WFTD Hastings
Description:
A perennial shrub growing to 1.5m in height with reddish-brown hairy new growth. The leaves are
near circular, have a rounded tip and are around 1.5 to 3.5 by 1 to 2.7cm. The white flowers have
four petals and are up to 5cm across.
Derivation of Name:
Correa; named after Jose Francisco Correa de Serra, a Portuguese botanist. Alba; from the Latin
word albus meaning ‘white,’ referring to the colour of its flowers.
Uses:
The leaves were used to make a drink similar to tea.

The plant is best grown in well-drained sandy soil and positioned in full sun to partial shade. It has
some degree of salt tolerance.
Can be pruned to maintain shape and used as a hedge plant.
Page 36 of 86
Dianella admixta
Dianella laevis
Dianella longifolia
Dianella revoluta
Common name(s) Flax-lily
Indigenous name(s) Murmbal (Gunditjmara)*
Height, Width Various Dianella revoluta photo by: Sam Genas
Flowering Period August to May
Description:
D. admixta; An open tufting perennial shrub growing between 0.3-0.8m x 0.5-1.5m. The dark green
leaves are paler on the lower surface and around 15-65cm x 0.5-1.2cm. Open, cone shaped flower
heads are blue to violet in colour.
D. laevis**; An upright tufted perennial shrub growing between 0.3-0.8m x 0.5m in height with
spreading bright green leaves around 20-80cm x 4-12mm and open pale blue flower heads.
D. longifolia; An upright, narrowly tufted perennial shrub around 0.3-0.8m x 0.5m with bright green
strap leaves, 20-80cm x 4-12mm, and open blue flower heads.
D. revoluta; A perennial shrub growing to about 1m in height and has a diameter of up to 1.5m. The
leaves are from 1.5-8.5cm by from 4-15mm. The flowers measure 7-12mm in length and fruit, 4-
10mm across, are blue to purple.
Derivation of Name:
Dianella; a diminutive of Diana, the Roman goddess of hunting and the moon. The original species
was found located in the French woods, thus the hunting association. Admixta; from the Latin word
admixtus meaning ‘mixed or contaminated.’ Laevis; from Latin meaning of comparatively little
physical weight or density. Longifolia; from the Latin word meaning ‘long leaves,’ a reference to the
generally long foliage. Revoluta; from the Latin word revolut, which means ‘rolled back,’ referring to
the petals which curl back.
*This name is for D. revoluta but may have been used for all Dianella sp.
** D.laevis has been renamed to D.longifolia in all states but Victoria.
Uses:
The ripe berries have a sweet flavour, which becomes nutty once seeds are chewed. Berries can
also be made into cordial. The leaves, split down the midrib can be rolled to make string. The blue
berries can be made into a dye.

D. admixta; Well drained dry clay soils.
D. laevis; Moist well drained soils.
D. longifolia; Moist soil for growth but tolerates dryness.
D. revolute; Moist well drained soils.
All species can tolerate some salt and any soil pH type.
The species is propagated successfully from seed or roots.
Page 37 of 86
Dicksonia antarctica
Common name(s) Soft Tree-fern
Indigenous name(s) Combadik (Coranderrk)
Garag (Gunai/Kurai)
Kum-ba-da (Woi
wurrung)
Wonon tulong (Djab
wurrung) photo by: fir0002

Flowering Period NA
Description:
A fern growing to 15m in height with large dark green roughly textured fronds in a spreading
canopy of up to 6m in diameter.
Derivation of Name:
Dicksonia; named in honour of James Dickson, a prominent British nurseryman. Antarctica; comes
from the species relative ‘southern’ location, or the relative proximity of the tree fern to the cooler
climates of Antarctic regions as opposed to many tree ferns from warmer climates, it does not grow
in Antarctica.
Uses:
The upper part of the trunk was split open and the soft pithy tissue, rich in starch, was eaten either
raw or cooked, reportedly tasting like a bitter turnip. The sap of the young fronds was placed onto
insect bites to relieve the itchiness and pain.

The plant is best grown in well-drained soil and positioned in partial sun to full shade. It prefers
acidic or neutral soil pH and is salt intolerant.
The species is propagated successfully from spores or cuttings.
Page 38 of 86
Dipodium punctatum
Common name(s) Hyacinth Orchid
Height, Width 0.3-0.9m high
Flowering Period December to February
Description:
An erect perennial herb with a leafless thick green to purplish-red stem around 0.3-0.9m high and
pale pink flowers about 20-25mm across.
Derivation of Name:
Dipodium; from the Greek words di meaning ‘double’ and podion meaning ‘little foot,’ in reference
to each flowers pollen mass being supported on two stipes, or stalks. Punctatum; from the Latin
word punctatus meaning ‘spotted.’
Uses:
The large, long, soft tubers were eaten.

The plant is best grown in sandy soil and positioned in partial shade. It is salt intolerant.
Page 39 of 86
Dodonea viscosa
Common name(s) Hop Bush
Indigenous name(s) Bururr (Wiradjuri)
Height, Width 1.5-4m high
photo by: J.M.Garg
Description:
An erect to spreading perennial shrub growing from 1.5 to 4m tall. The evergreen leaves are
leathery and around 4-7.5cm long by 1-1.5cm wide and usually spoon shaped. The flowers are
yellow to orange or red and produced in clusters about 2.5cm in length. The fruit is a capsule 1.5cm
across and red to brown in colour.
Derivation of Name:
Dodonaea; named after a Flemish botanist of the 16th century, Rembert Dodoens. Viscosa; from
the Latin term viscosus meaning ‘sticky.’
Uses:
The very durable and tough wood was used for making weapons and tools, as well as for house
building and firewood. The fruit was also used to make red dye.
Toothache cuts and stings were treated using a poultice made from this plant.

The plant is best grown in well-drained sandy soil and positioned in full sun. It has some degree of
salt and lime tolerance.
The species is propagated successfully from seed or cuttings.
Page 40 of 86
Enchylaena tomentose
Common name(s) Ruby Saltbush
Indigenous name(s) Gurgudj (Wemba Wemba)
Height, Width 1m x 1m
Plant Type Shrub
Description:
A small perennial shrub, up to a metre in diameter with slender, hairy leaves around 6-15mm long.
Fruits form as fleshy berries changing from bright green/yellow to bright red/orange when ripe.
Derivation of Name:
Enchylaena; from the Greek words egchlos meaning ‘fleshy or succulent’ and chlaena meaning
‘cloak or lined cloak,’ referring to the outer part of the flower. Tomentosa; from botanical Latin,
meaning ‘covered with dense short curled or curved hairs.’
Uses:
The tiny red flattened fruits, which have a salty, sweet flavour, were shaken off the bush and eaten
raw. They have a small black stone inside, which was also eaten. The fruit was also soaked in water
to make a sweet tea, while the leaves could be boiled and eaten as a vegetable. The small berry can
vary in colour when ripe, from deep purple, through bright pink and red, to a golden yellow and
orange. Because of the wide range of colours the berries were sometimes used to make dye.

The plant is best grown in damp well-drained soil and positioned in full sun to full shade. It has
Page 41 of 86
Eucalyptus obliqua
Common name(s) Messmate Stringybark
Indigenous name(s) Wangnarra (Woi wurrung)
Warngar (Djab wurrung)
Height, Width To 13-70m high
Flowering Period December to March
photo by: Kim Starr
Description:
A tall tree with a dense canopy, between 13-70m in height. Leaves can be glossy green to 10-13cm
x 3-4cm. Flowers appear in clusters of 7-15 and are either white or cream in colour. The fruit is
barrel shaped and around 0.6-1.2cm long by 0.5-1.1cm wide.
Derivation of Name:
Eucalyptus; from the Greek roots eu and calyptos, meaning 'well' and 'covered', in reference to the
flower bud. Obliqua; derived from the Latin obliquus meaning ‘oblique’ and describing a leaf base
where the two sides of the leaf blade are of unequal length.
Uses:
The outer bark was powdered and used as tinder for fire making while inner bark was used to make
coarse string for bags and fishing nets.

The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained, loamy soil and positioned in full sun to partial shade.
Page 42 of 86
Eucalyptus viminalis subsp. pryoriana

Common name(s) Coast Manna-gum
Indigenous name(s) Binnap (Yarra)
Yulong (Djab wurrung)
Wurun (Wurundjeri)
Height, Width 10-50m x 8-16m
Flowering Period March to May
photo by: HelloMojo
Description:
A tree with peeling coarse bark growing to around 5-12m in height with a canopy spread of 8-16m.
The leaves are dark green and slender while the white flowers appear in groups of three.
Derivation of Name:
Eucalyptus; from the Greek roots eu and calyptos, meaning 'well' and 'covered', in reference to the
flower bud. Viminalis; from the Latin viminalis meaning ‘viminous or osier-bearing,’ referring to the
resemblance of the adult foliage to that of the osier willow. Pryoriana; meaning unknown.
Uses:
The sugary white extrusions on leaves (manna) were gathered from the ground and eaten while the
wood was often used to make shields and water containers. The smoke produced from burning the
long, thin older leaves was believed to reduce fever.

The plant is best grown in sandy soil and positioned in full sun. It prefers acidic soil and is somewhat
salt tolerant.
Page 43 of 86
Exocarpos cupressiformis
Common name(s) Cherry Ballart
Indigenous name(s) Nyora (Boon wurrung)*
Palatt, Ballot (Lake
Condah)
Pul-loitch (Jajowerong)
Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub photo by: WFTD Hastings
Flowering Period September to May
Description:
A bright yellowish-green shrub growing around 3-10m x 3-6m. The leaves are reduced to tiny
triangular scales 0.5mm long along with tiny spikes to 8mm of minute yellow-green flowers. Hard
round green fruit on edible fleshy orange to red stalk.
Derivation of Name:
Exocarpos; from the Greek words exo meaning ‘outside’ and caryon meaning ‘nut’ referring to the
succulent flower stalk. Cupressiformis; meaning ‘shaped like the genus Cupressus,’ the classic Latin
name for Italian Cypress.
*This name applies to both Exocarpos sp.
Uses:
The ripe succulent red nut was picked from the stems and eaten as a springtime snack. The wood
was used to make spear throwers, small clubs and digging sticks.

The plant is best grown in clay or loam soil and positioned in full sun to partial shade. It is salt
intolerant.
Page 44 of 86
Exocarpos strictus
Common name(s) Pale-fruit Ballart
Indigenous name(s) Nyora (Boon wurrung)*
Ballat (Gippsland)
Pallert (Lake Condah)
Bulliyang, Bullyang
(Barababaraba-VIC)
Height, Width 1-3m x 1-3m photo by: John Tann
Plant Type Shrub

Description:
Erect light to grey green shrub growing 1-3m x 1-3m in size with tiny scale like leaves and dense
clusters of tiny yellow flowers. The shiny green fruit appear on fleshy white stalks.
Derivation of Name:
Exocarpos; from the Greek words exo meaning ‘outside’ and caryon meaning ‘nut’ referring to the
succulent flower stalk. Strictus; from the Latin meaning ‘tight or close,’ referring to the dense
flower clusters.
*This name applies to both Exocarpos sp.
Uses:
The whitish fruits of the plant were eaten.

The plant is best grown in well-drained soil and positioned in full sun to partial shade. It is
somewhat salt tolerant.
photo by: Donald Hobern
Page 45 of 86
Geranium potentilloides
Geranium sp. 2
Common name(s) Soft Cranesbill
Variable Cranesbill
Indigenous name(s) Terrat (Woi wurrung,
Coranderrk)
Kullumkulkeeteech (Djab
wurrung) photo by: Robert Steers NPS
Kawurn-Kallumbarrant
(Gunditjmara)
Height, Width Varies
Flowering Period September to March
Description:
Potentilloides: A prostrate, hairy, perennial herb with stems to 1m long, with leaves around 0.5-
4.5cm. The single, pale pink flowers are 10-15mm wide and on primary stalks 0-35mm long.
Sp. 2: A prostrate, scrambling, perennial herb with stems to 80cm long and kidney-shaped leaves to
4cm long. The pale pink to white flowers are single or paired, 12mm wide, and on primary stalks 7-
36mm long.
Derivation of Name:
Geranium; the Greek word for crane, perhaps referring to the flower being shaped like a crane’s
bill. Potentilloides; resembling plants of the genus Potentilla.
Uses:
The tuberous roots were pounded before being cooked and eaten while the leaves and flower
petals were also used as a food source.
The plant also has medicinal purposes with the squashed leaves can be applied to burns and
blisters, while the raw tuber could also be used as medicine for internal complaints such as
diarrhoea.

The plant is best grown in damp loam soil and positioned in full sun to partial shade. It is salt
intolerant.
Page 46 of 86
Kennedia prostrata
Common name(s) Running Postman
Indigenous name(s) Nall (Gunditjmara)
Kabin (Coranderrk)
Height, Width To 2.5m across
Flowering Period April to November
photo by: gnangarra
Description:
A prostrate perennial shrub growing around 1-2.5m wide with leaves divided into three crinkly,
roundish blue-green leaflets 6-35mm x 6-35mm. The small, scarlet flowers appear in groups of 1-2.
Derivation of Name:
Kennedia; named for John Kennedy, a nurseryman from London. Prostrata; from the Latin word
prostratus meaning ‘prostrate,’ referring to the plant lying along the ground.
Uses:
The nectar was sucked from red pea flowers as a source of fluid. Any trailing stems could be used as
ties and twine, while the leaves were commonly used to make a drink similar to tea.

The plant is best grown in loam soil and positioned in full sun. It is somewhat salt and lime tolerant.
Page 47 of 86
Kunzea ericoides
Common name(s) Burgan
Indigenous name(s) Burgan (Wurundjeri)
photo by: Steve Burrows
Description:
A spreading perennial shrub or tree that grows to 18m with variable shaped leaves up to 25mm
long and 5mm wide. The white flowers appear in clusters with petals about 2mm long. The fruits
are capsules 2.0-4.5mm across with seeds 1.0-1.5mm across.
Derivation of Name:
Kunzea; named for Dr Gustav Kunze, professor of medicine and botany from Germany. Ericoides;
referring to the similarity to Erica arborea.
Uses:
Kangaroo spears, fighting sticks, waddies and fighting boomerangs were made from the wood

The plant is best grown in loam soil and positioned in full sun to full shade. It is salt intolerant.
Page 48 of 86
Kunzea pomifera
Common name(s) Muntries
Indigenous name(s) Munter, Monterry, Ngurp
(Bunganditj, Western Vic
& SA)
Height, Width 0.3-05m x 2-5m
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period September to November photo by: Nadiatalent
Description:
A small perennial shrub or ground cover growing between 0.3-0.5m high and 2-5m across. The
leaves are ovoid and green, to 5mm across, with reddish stems and clusters of creamy flowers. The
edible fruit is fleshy and purple, up to 15mm long containing small brown seeds.
Derivation of Name:
Kunzea; named for Dr Gustav Kunze, professor of medicine and botany from Germany. Pomifera;
from the Latin words pomum meaning apple and ferre meaning ‘to bear,’ referring to the small
apple shape fruit the plant produces.
Uses:
The berries of Muntries have a spicy, stewed apple flavour. The berries or products made from
Kunzea pomifera are becoming more popular and are seen often in Australian bushfood markets.
Muntries hold significance in the traditional diet of the Narrindjeri people of the Coorong in the
south-east of South Australia where they were eaten as fresh fruit and made into a paste.
Early European settlers also incorporated the berries of Muntries in pies, jellies, preserves, chutneys
and relishes. Interestingly, Kunzea pomifera was one of the earliest species from Australia to be
introduced into cultivation in England in the late 1800s.

The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained soils of a neutral pH and positioned in full sun to
partial shade. It is somewhat salt tolerant.
Page 49 of 86
Leptospermum lanigerum
Common name(s) Woolly Tea-tree
Indigenous name(s) Balung (Gunai/Kurnai)
Woolerp (Wurundjeri)
Flowering Period September to January
Description:
A dense perennial shrub around 2-6m x 1-3m in size with silvery leaves between 4-20mm x 1.5-
4mm and masses of open white flowers up to 15mm wide. The hairy fruit are capsule shaped and
around 5-10mm across.
Derivation of Name:
Leptospermum; from the Greek words leptos meaning ‘slender,’ and perma meaning ‘seed.’
Lanigerum; from the Latin word for wool-bearing, referring to the hairy leaves and hairy buds.
Uses:
The twigs and branches were used for spears and digging sticks while leaves could be used as a
treatment for scabies and medicine for breathing difficulties. A drink similar to tea was also made
from the leaves and historical records indicate that it was used by early settlers in the belief that it
would help prevent scurvy.

The plant is best grown in damp alkaline soils and positioned in partial sun. It has some degree of
salt tolerance.
Page 50 of 86
Leptospermum petersonii
Common name(s) Lemon Scented Tea Tree
Indigenous name(s) Baruna (Wiradjuri-Vic)*
Flowering Period October to February
photo by: Raffi Kojian
Description:
A perennial shrub growing around 3-7 by 2-5m in size with tan or grey bark, lemon scented leaves
up to 4cm long and clusters of small white flowers.
Derivation of Name:
Leptospermum; from the Greek words leptos meaning ‘slender,’ and perma meaning ‘seed.’
Petersonii; named after WJ Peterson, who collected the first specimen.
*This name is generally used for all Leptospermum sp.
Uses:
The leaves were gathered from the wild for use as a tea and to extract an essential oil, with both
having antibacterial properties. Captain Cook and early explorers used the tips to make a tea to
prevent scurvy.

The plant is best grown in well-drained soil types of a neutral pH and positioned in full sun. It has
some degree of salt tolerance and can be kept to shrub height by pruning.
The plant is sometimes grown as an ornamental.
photo by: Raffi Kojian
Page 51 of 86
Leucopogon parviflorus
Common name(s) Coast beard-heath
Indigenous name(s) Ngoor-le (Buandig)
Height, Width 1.2-5m high
photo by: Stephen Bain
Description:
An erect perennial shrub growing up to 1.2-5m high with elliptic leaves around 11-29mm long and
2.4-7.5mm wide. The white flowers appear in clusters of 7-13 with white fruit 4.3-5mm long while
the fruit is a globular white berry around 4-5mm across.
Derivation of Name:
Leucopogon; from the Greek leukoni meaning ‘white’ and pogon meaning ‘beard,’ alluding to the
white-bearded petal lobes. Parviflorus; from the Latin parvi meaning ‘small’ and floris meaning
‘flower.’
Uses:
The white fruit was eaten when sweet and ripe, being high in nutrients and fluids.

The plant is best grown in well-drained loam or sandy soils with a neutral pH and positioned in
partial sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance.
Page 52 of 86
Lomandra longifolia
Common name(s) Spiny-headed Mat-rush
Indigenous name(s) Karawun (Woi wurrung)
photo by: WFTD Hastings
Description:
A perennial tussock grass between 0.5-1m x 0.5-1.2m with green leaves around 0.5-1m x 4-10mm.
The scented yellow flowers appear in rings on flower spikes 12-50cm long, with the male flowers
being branched.
Derivation of Name:
Lomandra; from the Greek words loma meaning ‘edge,’ and aner meaning ‘male,’ because of the
bordered anthers of some species. Longifolia; from the Latin words longi meaning ‘long’ and folia
meaning ‘leaf.’
Uses:
The leaves were woven into bags, baskets and mats while the leaf base, containing starch and
water, was chewed to avoid dehydration. Edible flowers could be soaked to extract the nectar and
are said to have a taste like green fresh peas. The seeds would be ground for use in damper.

The plant is best grown in moist soil types of a neutral pH and positioned in partial sun. It has some
degree of salt.
The species is propagated successfully from seed or clump division.
Page 53 of 86
Melaleuca ericifolia
Common name(s) Swamp Paperbark
Indigenous name(s) Barlan (Ganai)
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period October to November
photo by: John Tann
Description:
A tall, dense shrub with brownish papery bark growing to 9m high. The dark green leaves are
alternately arranged and around 5-18mm by 0.5-1.7mm in size. Creamy white flowers appear in
spikes on the end of branches, with petals up to 2.2mm long. Following the flowers, the fruits are
woody capsules 2.5-3.6mm by 3-5mm, arranged along the stems.
Derivation of Name:
Melaleuca; from the Greek words melas meaning ‘black’ and leukos meaning ‘white,’
referring to black fire scars on white trunks. Ericifolia; a reference to the similarity of the leaves of
this species to those of Erica in the family Ericaceae.
Uses:
Aborigines used the flowers for a sweet drink whilst the soft papery bark was used to swaddle
babies. The harder bark was used to make fishing floats while the wood was suitable for spears,
clubs and digging sticks.

The plant is best grown in damp, loam or sandy soils and positioned in full to partial sun. It has
Page 54 of 86
Microseris lanceolata
Common name(s) Yam Daisy
Indigenous name(s) Murnong (Wurundjeri)
Pun’yin (Djab wurrung)
Muurang (Gunditjmara)
Flowering Period October to April photo by: Lorraine Oliver
Description:
A perennial herb growing around 15-50cm x 15-25cm with tufts of leaves 5-30cm x 2-15mm in size
and single, bright yellow daisy flower heads to 20mm wide on stalks up to 50cm long.
Derivation of Name:
Microseris; from the Greek words micros meaning ‘small’ and seris, the word for chicory. This is a
reference to the tuberous roots, like small chicory roots. Lanceolata; from Latin word meaning
‘lance shaped,’ referring to the leaves.
Uses:
The tubers were eaten either cooked or raw and in the latter case they tasted crisp and bland. They
were mostly cooked overnight in rush baskets placed in ground ovens and when cooked this way,
produced a sweet syrup with a coconut flavour.

The plant is best grown in dry, well-drained soils and positioned in partial sun. It has some degree of
salt tolerance.
The species is propagated successfully from seeds, which germinate in a couple of weeks.
photo by: Grassy Ecosystems
Page 55 of 86
Muehlenbeckia adpressa
Common name(s) Climbing Lignum
Indigenous name(s) Karren (Wemba Wemba)
Height, Width Stems to 1m long
Plant Type Creeper
Flowering Period All Year
Description:
A prostrate or climbing plant with red-brown stems up to 1m long and bright green leaves around
1.5-6cm by 1.5-3.5cm. The green-yellow flowers occur in clusters spread evenly along the branches.
Derivation of Name:
Muehlenbeckia; named after H. G. Muehlenbeck, a 19th century French physician. Adpressa; from
the Latin word adpressus meaning ‘pressed against or lying flat against.’
Uses:
The fruit was ground into flour and the stem extract was drunk for stomach problems.

The plant is best grown in dry, loam or sandy soils and positioned in full sun. It has some degree of
salt tolerance.
Page 56 of 86
Myoporum insulare
Common name(s) Boobiala
Indigenous name(s) Bubiala (SE-Tasmania)
Description:
A prostrate perennial shrub growing to 6m high with smooth green leaves, around 30-90mm long
and 7-22mm wide. White flowers with purple spots appear in clusters of 3-8 and are 6-8mm across
while round purple fruit is 4.5-9mm across.
Derivation of Name:
Myoporum; from the Greek words myo meaning ‘shut’ and poros meaning ‘a pore,’ which refers to
the glands on the leaf. Insulare; a Latin word meaning ‘from an island,’ referring to the coastal or
island habitat.
Uses:
The salty fruit was eaten, having a sweet and sometimes bitter taste.

The plant is best grown in well-drained, alkaline, sandy soils and positioned in full sun to full shade.
It has some degree of salt tolerance.
This species is easily propagated from cuttings.
Page 57 of 86
Pelargonium australe
Common name(s) Austral Stork’s-bill
Indigenous name(s) Terrat (Wurundjeri)
Height, Width 0.3-0.6m x 0.3-1m
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period October to March
photo by: Magnus Manske
Description:
A perennial herb growing up to about 0.5m with hairy stems and leaves that are oval and 30-40mm
long. The flowers are usually white with red streaks and occur on long stalks in groups of up to 12
flowers.
Derivation of Name:
Pelargonium; from the Greek word pelargos meaning ‘a stork,’ referring to the awned petal
resembling a stork's bill. Australe; from the Latin word meaning ‘southern,’ referring to the species
distribution in the southern part of Australia.
Uses:
Aborigines roasted the slender tap root which is high in starch but bitter to taste.

The plant is best grown in well-drained, alkaline, sandy soils and positioned in partial sun. It has
The species is easily propagated from cuttings and can tolerate dry conditions once established.
Page 58 of 86
Persoonia juniperina
Common name(s) Prickly Geebung
Indigenous name(s) Geebung (Dharug), *
Jibbong (Wirandjru)*
Height, Width 0.3-1.5m x 0.6-0.8m
Plant Type Shrub
Description:
An erect prickly shrub around 0.3-1.5m by 0.6-0.8m with bright green leaves 8-30mm by 0.7-1.5mm
in size. The single hairy, yellow, tubular flowers occur in leaf axils, followed by yellow-green to
purplish succulent fruit.
Derivation of Name:
Persoonia; named after Christiaan Hendrik Persoon, a South African born Dutch botanist.
Juniperina; meaning ‘juniper-like’ referring to the species resembling plants from the genus
Juniperus.
*This name is generally used for all Persoonia sp.
Uses:
The fruits were an important Aboriginal food and would be eaten either raw or cooked.

The plant is best grown in well-drained, sandy soils with an acidic or neutral pH and positioned in
full sun to partial sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance.
Propagation has been successful from cuttings of very young growth, which can be very slow to
form roots. The plant can be pruned, making it suitable for hedges.
Page 59 of 86
Phragmites australis
Common name(s) Common Reed
Indigenous name(s) Djarg (Wemba Wemba,
Wergaia)
Jaark (Lake Boga)
Kaerk (Djab wurrung)
Taark, Taerk
(Gunditjmara) photo by: Darkone
Tark, Tark-korn
(Wathaurong)
Kowat (Gunai/Kurnai)
Charr-ak (Jajowerong)
Height, Width 3.6m x 3m
Flowering Period July to September
Description:
A perennial grass growing to 3.6m x 3m, with stems to 4m and blue-green leaves about 4cm across.
The purple or golden clusters of flowers are around 5mm in size.
Derivation of Name:
Phragmites; from the Greek word phragma meaning ‘a fence or screen,’ referring to the plant’s
habit of growing in dense colonies and forming a screen of plants. Australis; from the Latin word
meaning ‘southern,’ referring to the species distribution in the southern part of Australia.
Uses:
The underground shoots were eaten while roots could be dug up and roasted until crisp, with a
non-starchy flavour. Tubers were also used as a medicine for arthritis, jaundice and food poisoning.
Sections of reed were strung into necklaces and used as nose ornaments while the straight stems
also used as spear shafts. Leaves were twisted into rope for making baskets. In Gippsland, sharp
edges of cane were used as knives for skinning animals.

The plant is best grown in damp, neutral or alkaline soils and positioned in full sun to partial sun. It
has some degree of salt tolerance.
Page 60 of 86
Poa labillardierei
Common name(s) Common Tussock-grass
Indigenous name(s) Bobat (Woi wurrung)
Bowat (Wurundjeri)
Height, Width 30-80cm high
photo by: Macleay Grass Man
Description:
A dense perennial tussock grass growing between 30-80cm tall slender, greyish-green leaves. The
plume like flower heads extend above the foliage up to 1.2m and are green with cream seed heads.
Derivation of Name:
Poa; from the Greek word ‘meaning grass or fodder,’ perhaps referring to the grass being livestock
food. Labillardierei; named after the French botanist and explorer, J.J.H. de Labillardière.
Uses:
Poa grass was used to make string for nets, bags, baskets and mats.

The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained, alkaline soils and positioned in full sun to partial sun.
It has some degree of salt tolerance. Tolerates frost and cold to about -7C.
Page 61 of 86
Podolepis jaceoides
Common name(s) Showy Podolepis
Height, Width 0.3-0.8m
Plant Type Shrub
photo by: Paul Asman and Jill Lenoble
Description:
A woolly perennial subshrub growing to 0.8m high with leaves up to 20cm and daisy-like yellow
flowers around 4cm across.
Derivation of Name:
Podolepis; from the Greek words podos meaning ‘foot,’ and lepis meaning ‘scale.’ Jaceoides; from
the Latin word jaceo meaning ‘to lying down or to be situate.’
Uses:
The thick taproot was eaten. Alpine Podolepis, P. robusta and Long Podolepis, P. hieracioides were
probably also eaten.

The plant can be grown in almost any soil type and from full sun to full shade and is able to tolerate
extended dry periods but responds very well to extra watering. It has some degree of salt tolerance.
Page 62 of 86
Prostanthera rotundifolia
Common name(s) Native Round Leaf Mint
Height, Width 2m x 1.5m
Plant Type Shrub
photo by: Kevin Sparrow
Description:
A rounded perennial shrub growing to 2m by 1.5m with rounded dull green leaves up to 1cm. The
flowers occur in large clusters and are usually purple or lilac in colour.
Derivation of Name:
Prostanthera; from the Greek words prostheke meaning ‘an appendix’ and anthera meaning ‘an
anther,’ referring to the appendage on the stamens. Rotundifolia; from the Latin words rotundus
meaning ‘round or circular’ and folia meaning ‘leaves,’ referring to the shape of the leaves.
Uses:
This plant can be, and was, used as a substitute for many traditional herbs such as mint, sage,
thyme and oregano. Essential oils can also be extracted from the leaves. The scented foliage can
also be used to flavour jam, jellies and biscuits or as potpourri.

The plant is best grown in damp alkaline loam soils and positioned in partial sun. It is salt intolerant.
Propagation has been successful from cuttings.
Page 63 of 86
Pteridium esculentum
Common name(s) Bracken Fern
Indigenous name(s) Gurgi (Eora),
Makkitch (Gunditjmara)
Muulaa (Djab wurrung)
Geewan (Gippsland)
Mukine, Mawkum (Lake
Condah) photo by: Aaron Walker

Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period NA
Description:
A perennial fern growing between 0.3-2.5m high with triangular dark green fronds up to 1m wide.
Non-flowering and with spore cases in narrow bands along frond margins.
Derivation of Name:
Pteridium; from the Greek word pteris which means ‘fern.’ Esculentum; from the Latin word
esculentus meaning ‘edible,’ referring to its edible tubers.
Uses:
Bracken starch was an important food to Aboriginals; the roasted rhizomes were staple foods that
could be eaten in huge quantities. The young, undeveloped fronds would be boiled prior to eating
and had a bitter, asparagus-like taste while the roots could be pounded into a paste and roasted.
They should only be eaten as emergency foods as the fronds are known to contain toxins.

The plant is best grown in loam soils and positioned in full sun to partial sun. It has some degree of
salt tolerance.
A vigorous fern which is both hard to establish and difficult to remove.
Page 64 of 86
Rhagodia candolleana
Common name(s) Sea-berry Salt Bush
Indigenous name(s) Bullagai (Wiradjuri)*
Height, Width 01-1m x 1.5-2m
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period December to April
Description:
A spreading perennial shrub up to 1.2m high with glossy green leaves around 20-35mm long and
small red berries. The flowers occur in sprays of green clusters while the fleshy fruit has a single
seed 1.5-2.5mm across.
Derivation of Name:
Rhagodia; from the Greek word rhagodes meaning ‘berry-like,’ in reference to the fruit.
Candolleana; the word is named after Swiss botanist Augustin Pyramus de Candolle.
*This name is generally used for all Rhagodia sp.
Uses:
The leaves were cooked and eaten, along with the berries, despite these being quite bitter.
Squashed berries also gave a dye, used by the settlers as a substitute for red ink.

The plant is best grown in well-drained soils with a neutral or alkaline pH and positioned in full sun.
It has some degree of salt tolerance.
Page 65 of 86
Rubus parvifolius
Common name(s) Native Raspberry
Indigenous name(s) Eepaeep (Coranderrk)
Barring-gootch (Djab
wurrung)
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period October to December photo by: Nadiatalent
Description:
A perennial shrub up to 2m high with arching, prickled branches and broad leaves around 3-15cm
long. The red or pink flowers, with petals 7-20mm long, are in clumps at the end of stems, while the
red fruit is 1cm wide.
Derivation of Name:
Rubus; from the Latin word ruber meaning ‘red,’ referring to the red immature berries. Parvifolia;
from Latin, meaning ‘with small leaves.’
Uses:
The red fruit is pleasantly flavoured and can be eaten raw or used in sauces and jams. Raspberry
leaf tea was used as a gargle for sore throats, for diarrhoea treatment and to ease pain. It has
shown antioxidant activities in studies on mice.

The plant is best grown in well-drained loam soil and positioned in full sun. It is salt intolerant.
Page 66 of 86
Sambucus gaudichaudiana
Common name(s) Native Elderberry
Indigenous name(s) Burne-burne (Lake
Condah)
Plant Type Shrub
photo by: Colleen Miller
Description:
An upright perennial shrub growing around 0.6-2m x 0.5-1.5m with pairs of stalkless light green
leaves 10-35cm long and terminal clusters, to 20cm, of small white flowers. The white, shiny berries
are 3-6mm across.
Derivation of Name:
Sambucus; from the Greek word sambuca, the name of a stringed instrument, traditionally made
from Elder trees. Gaudichaudiana; named for Charles Gaudichaud-Baupr, 19th century French
botanist and physician.
Uses:
Some sources state that the leaves and stems of plants in this genus are poisonous. When cooked,
the berries are sweet and edible.

The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained loam soil and positioned in partial sun. It is salt
intolerant.
Page 67 of 86
Sarcocornia quinqueflora
Common name(s) Beaded Glasswort
Samphire
Height, Width To 30cm high
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period October to March
photo by: Liese Coulter
Description:
A decumbent perennial shrub growing to 30cm high with branches to 5mm with. The flowers occur
in clusters of between 5-9 flowers.
Derivation of Name:
Sarcocornia; from the Latin words sarco referring to flesh, possibly referring to the fleshy leaves,
and perhaps cornea tela meaning ‘horny web or sheath.’ Quinqueflora; from Latin, meaning five-
flowered.
Uses:
The foliage is edible and can be pickled, steamed or blanched, and tastes salty and slightly peppery,
with the fresh green leaves being a source of calcium, iron and vitamin A.

The plant is best grown in dry, well-drained soils with an acidic or neutral pH and positioned in full
sun to partial sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance.
Page 68 of 86
Solanum aviculare
Common name(s) Kangaroo Apple
Indigenous name(s) Mookitch, Mayakitch
(Gunditjmara)
Plant Type Shrub
photo by: Peter Woodard
Description:
An erect perennial shrub growing up to 4m high with dark green leaves around 8-30cm long. The
flower clusters are blue-violet in colour and 25-40mm wide, followed by berries 10-15mm wide that
are poisonous while green, but edible once orange.
Derivation of Name:
Solanum; from the Latin word solamen meaning ‘solace or comfort,’ referring to the narcotic
properties of some species. Aviculare; from the Latin word avis meaning ‘bird,’ referring to the
pointed leaves, like a bird’s beak.
Uses:
The fruits of many species of Kangaroo Apple were an important food for Aboriginal people, but
needed to be eaten when they are completely ripe or it is poisonous. The fruit would sometimes be
placed in sand to ripen before being eaten.

The plant is best grown in damp well-drained soils and positioned in partial sun. It has some degree
of salt tolerance.
photo by: Tatters
Page 69 of 86
Solanum laciniatum
Common name(s) Large Kangaroo Apple
Indigenous name(s) Mookitch, Mayakitch
(Gunditjmara)
Meakitch (Lake Condah)
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period September to March photo by: Muriel Bendel
Description:
An open perennial shrub around 1-3m x 1-3m with lance-shaped leaves between 5-20cm x 10-
40mm. The flowers are flat and purple, up to 50mm across with an egg-shaped, yellow berry.
Derivation of Name:
Solanum; from the Latin word solamen meaning ‘solace or comfort,’ referring to the narcotic
properties of some species. Laciniatum; from the Latin word lacinia meaning ‘a lappet or flap of a
garment,’ referring to the lobed leaves.
Uses:
The dark orange fruit was only eaten when very ripe. It is poisonous at other times.

The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained soils and positioned in partial sun. It has some degree
of salt tolerance.
Page 70 of 86
Suaeda australis
Common name(s) Seablite
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period February to April
photo by: Lorraine Phelan
Description:
A spreading perennial shrub growing between 0.1-0.9m high with succulent green leaves up to
40mm long. The reddish flower clusters occur on short, slender, leafy spikes, followed by succulent
fruit up to 2mm across.
Derivation of Name:
Suaeda; the word comes from an Arabic name for the Suaeda species and it was assigned as the
genus name by the taxonomist Peter Forsskal in the 1760s. Australis; from Latin, meaning ‘South
Land.’
Uses:
The more tender end tips or sprigs are cut approximately 10cm long and cooked, having a lightly
salted asparagus character.

The plant is best grown in clay soils and positioned in full sun to full shade. It has some degree of
salt tolerance.
Page 71 of 86
Syzygium australe
Common name(s) Lilly Pilly
Indigenous name(s) Galangara (Dhurga-NSW)
Height, Width To 8m high
Plant Type Shrub
photo by: Pseudopanax
Description:
A perennial shrub growing to 8m high with elliptic leaves around 3-10cm long and 1-3cm wide. The
spreading white flowers, 8-12mm across, occur in terminal clusters on stamens around 15-20mm
long and the red, obovoid fruit is 15-25mm in size.
Derivation of Name:
Syzygium; from the Greek words syn meaning ‘together,’ and zygon, meaning ‘yoke, or yoked
together.’ Australe; from Latin, meaning ‘from the south,’ referring to the habitat.
Uses:
The fruits of all Lilly Pilly were eaten either raw or cooked when ripe. Early settlers used the berry
for summer drinks and jams.

The plant is best grown in well-drained soils and positioned in full sun to partial sun. It has some
degree of salt tolerance.
Page 72 of 86
Tasmannia lanceolata
Common name(s) Mountain Pepper
Height, Width 3-7m x 1-2.5m
Plant Type Shrub
Fruiting Period March to June
photo by: Iain Harrison
Description:
A large perennial shrub that can grow between 3-7m high and up to 2.5m across, with glossy dark
green leaves around 3-13cm long and 0.5-4cm wide on short stalks. The creamy white flowers are
grouped in clusters with curled petals. These are followed by black, two-lobed berries 5-8mm wide.
Derivation of Name:
Tasmannia; neo-Latin, referring to the place of origin, Tasmania. Lanceolata; from Latin, meaning
‘lance shaped,’ referring to the leaves.
Uses:
The leaf and berries can be dried, and used as a spice, with a distinctly peppery taste. The berries
themselves have a much sweeter flavour with a pepper aftertaste. Both parts can be added to
curries, cheese and even alcoholic beverages. As a medicine, it can be used to treat scurvy. It has
also been used as an effective fish poison.

The plant is best grown in damp loam soils with an acidic or neutral pH and positioned in partial
sun. It is salt intolerant.
Page 73 of 86
Tetragonia implexicoma
Common name(s) Bower Spinach
Plant Type Shrub
photo by: Kevin Sparrow
Description:
A scrambling perennial subshrub that forms dense leafy patches of up to 4m. The stems are long
and trailing, often succulent and coloured red or pink when young, maturing to dark green and
becoming woody. The leaves are alternate, clustered and fleshy. The yellow flowers are solitary.
The fruits are succulent berries 5-8mm long and pink to dark red in colour.
Derivation of Name:
Tetragonia; from the Greek words tetra meaning ‘four’ and gonia meaning ‘angle,’ referring to the
4-angled fruit of some species. Implexicoma; from the Latin words implexus meaning ‘intertwined’
and kome meaning ‘hair,’ alluding to the hairs on the plant.
Uses:
The berries, which darken to near-black when ripe, were valued as a source of red dye, or as a
sweet tasting snack.
The leaves were highly valued as food by both Aboriginal people and by early Europeans who found
them a valuable counter to scurvy. As its common name indicates, it has a similar flavour and
texture to spinach.

The plant is best grown in damp, sandy or loam soil with an alkaline pH and positioned in full sun to
partial sun. It is somewhat salt tolerant.
Page 74 of 86
Tetragonia tetragonioides
Common name(s) Warrigal Greens
Indigenous name(s) Warrigal (Dharug)
Height, Width 2m across
Flowering Period All Year
photo by: Brian Walters
Description:
A prostrate, sprawling, perennial plant that can grow to around 2m with oval leaves around 75-
100mm long and small greenish yellow flowers. The fruit are around 10-12mm across.
Derivation of Name:
Tetragonia; from the Greek words tetra meaning ‘four’ and gonia meaning ‘angle,’ referring to the
4-angled fruit of some species. Tetragonioides; meaning ‘similar to the genus Tetragonia.’
Uses:
The leaves are useable in most of the ways things like spinach is, blanched or cooked before eating.
They can also be steamed, or used in soups and stir fries. The plant is low in protein but has very
high vitamin C as well as some calcium and phosphorus.

The plant is best grown in damp sandy soil and positioned in partial sun to full shade. It is
Propagation can be carried out easily from both seed and cuttings.
Page 75 of 86
Themeda triandra
Common name(s) Kangaroo Grass
Indigenous name(s) Wuulot (Gunditjmara)
Wuuloitc (Djab wurrung)
Height, Width 1.5m x 0.5m
Flowering Period December to February
photo by: John Morgan
Description:
A tufted perennial grass that can grow up to 1.5m tall and 0.5m across, with stems 0.7-1m high and
green-grey leaves around 10-50cm by 2-5mm in size. The leafy flower heads grow to around 10-
25cm long, with clusters of shiny brown flowered spikelets.
Derivation of Name:
Themeda; from the Arabic word thaemed meaning ‘a depression in which water lies after rain.’
Triandra; from the Greek words treis and aner meaning ‘three’ and ‘man.’
Uses:
In summer, Aborigines would gather seeds and grind them into flour which, when mixed with
water, was cooked to make damper. The stems were used to make twine for fishing nets.

The plant is best grown in well-drained, damp soils and positioned in full sun to partial sun. It is
The species is propagated successfully from seed or by division of older clumps. Seed may be sown
straight away with some success in mid-summer to autumn.
Page 76 of 86
Thysanotus tuberosus
Common name(s) Common Fringe-lily
Indigenous name(s) Tjunguri (Noongar)*
Flowering Period November to January
Description:
A tufted perennial herb growing to 15-60cm by 15-20cm with narrow greyish leaves up to 50cm by
4mm. The erect, umbrella like flower heads usually contain 1-8 mauve flowers, growing up to
35mm wide.
Derivation of Name:
Thysanotus; from the Greek word thysanotos meaning ‘fringed,’ in reference to the flowers.
Tuberosus; from the Latin word tuberculum meaning ‘a swelling,’ referring to the tubers on the
roots.
*Name information with regard to Thysanotus patersonii (Twining Fringe Lily), similar flower, but a
climber.
Uses:
The white, watery tubers were cooked before being eaten.

The plant can be grown in dry or moist, sandy or loam soils and positioned in full sun to full shade.
Seed should be sown thinly in spring in sandy compost in a greenhouse. Grow the seedlings in the
pot for their first growing season and pot them on into individual pots in early spring of the
following year. Grow them on for at least another year in a greenhouse before trying them
outdoors.
Page 77 of 86
Triglochin procera
Common name(s) Water Ribbons
Indigenous name(s) Ngareli (Wemba Wemba)
Pol-an-go (Wathaurong)
Height, Width 20-50cm high
Flowering Period August to April
photo by: Tony Rodd
Description:
A tufted perennial plant with stems between 20-50cm high and long glossy erect to floating leaves
3.5m by 40mm in size. The dense terminal flower spike reaches to 50cm long and 4cm across, with
masses of small greenish flowers. Fruits are globular in shape and 6.8-14.4mm long.
Derivation of Name:
Triglochin; from the New Latin tri meaning ‘three’ and the Greek glōchin meaning ‘projecting point’
referring to the pronged look of the fruit. Procera; from the Latin word meaning ‘tall, slender or
long,’ possibly referring to the growth habit of the plant.
Uses:
The sweet tubers were eaten either raw or cooked.
The green leaves of plants can contain a toxic cyanogenic glycoside, which is especially present
during and just after a drought and is particularly toxic to ruminants.

The plant is grown in aquatic areas and positioned in full sun to partial sun. It is somewhat salt
tolerant.
Page 78 of 86
Typha domingensis
Typhaceae domingensis
Typhaceae orientalis
Common name(s) Narrowleaf Cumbungi
Broadleaf Cumbungi
Bulrush
Indigenous name(s) Baaliyan (Wiradjuri)
Typha domingenis photo by: Richard Boyd
Height, Width Various
Flowering Period November to January
Description:
T. domingensis; A perennial herb growing between 2-4m with leaves about 6-18mm wide and
flowering stems consisting of a spike 13-26mm with brown flower clusters.
T. domingensis; A rigid perennial rush between 1-2m high with a flowering stem, 10-30mm across,
that is a brown fluffy spike of dense flowers, with the male flowers being on the upper part. The
female area of the flower spike is cinnamon brown with green leaves 4-10mm wide.
T. orientalis; A rigid perennial rush between 2-3m high with a flowering stem, 10-30mm across, that
is a brown fluffy spike of dense flowers, with the male flowers being on the upper part. The female
area of the flower spike is chestnut brown with blueish-green leaves 6-20mm wide.
Derivation of Name:
Thphaceae; from the Greek words typhos meaning ‘marshes or swamps,’ referring to the location
near streams, and aceae, given to families of plants. Domingensis; meaning ‘from Dominica,’
referring to the plants native habitat. Orientalis; refers to the orient or east where it was originally
found.
Uses:
The floury rhizomes were steamed in earth ovens or roasted in fires, the edible portions consumed
or made into bread, and then the tough fibres that remained were scraped with mussel shells and
made into twine. Leaves were used by the local people to make eel traps and baskets and more
recently for chair caning. The pollen has been used as an absorbent in surgery and a dressing for
wounds.

Typha domingensis; The plants are best grown in damp soils and positioned in full sun to partial
shade. It has some degree of salt tolerance. Seed-surface sow in a pot and stand it in 3cm of water.
Pot up the young seedlings as soon as possible and, as the plants develop, increase the depth of
water.
Typhaceae sp; The plants are best grown in damp loam soils and positioned in full sun to full shade.
They have some degree of salt tolerance. The plant grows in wet areas, requiring long periods of
flooding each year. The depth of the water is crucial to how well the plant will grow.
Page 79 of 86
Viola Banksii
Common name(s) Ivy-leaf Violet
Height, Width 17cm x 1-2m
Flowering Period June to March
Description:
A prostrate perennial herb growing around 17cm by 1-2m with rosettes of green leaves 15-20mm
long and 20-30mm wide. The single flowers are on stalks 6-17cm high and white with violet centres
followed by brownish fruit 9x4mm in size.
Derivation of Name:
Viola; from Latin word for Violet, referring to the violet genus. Banksii; named after Sir Joseph
Banks.
Uses:
The flowers can be eaten from the plants or used in salads.

The plant is best grown in well-drained, alkaline, loam soils and positioned in partial sun to full
shade. It is somewhat salt tolerant.
Page 80 of 86
Wahlenbergia stricta
Common name(s) Sprawling Bluebell
Indigenous name(s) Cooerwell (Lithgow-NSW)
Height, Width 0.4-0.9m x 0.3-0.4m
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period August to January
photo by: Harry Rose
Description:
An erect, clumping, perennial herb growing to 0.9m by 0.4m, with pairs of hairy oblong leaves 5-
70mm long and 1-13mm wide. The bell shaped flowers appear on long stems and are light to deep
blue in colour.
Derivation of Name:
Wahlenbergia; named after Göran Wahlenberg, a Swedish botanist. Stricta; the Latin word for
‘straight or rigid,’ referring to the long, upright stems.
Uses:
The flowers can be eaten from the plants or used in salads.

The plant is best grown in well-drained loam soils and positioned in full sun to partial sun. It is salt
intolerant.
The species is propagated easily by division or root cutting.
Page 81 of 86
Wurmbea dioica
Common name(s) Early Nancy
Height, Width 5-20cm x 10cm
Plant Type Shrub
Flowering Period July to October
photo by: F.Muell
Description:
A perennial herb growing around 5-20cm by 10cm, with fine green leaves up to 7cm by 2mm in size.
The flower spikes consist of 2-7 stalkless white flowers, followed by a capsule shaped fruit
containing 1-50 seeds.
Derivation of Name:
Wurmbea; named after Friedrick Wilhelm von Wurmb, a botanist in 18th century Jakarta. Dioica;
from the Latin word meaning ‘two houses,’ referring to the species having male and female flowers
on separate plants.
Uses:
The small, starchy underground stems were eaten.

The plant is best grown in loam soils and positioned in full sun to partial sun. It is somewhat salt
tolerant.
Page 82 of 86
Xanthorrhoea australis
Xanthorrhoea minor subsp. lutea
Common name(s) Austral Grass-tree
Small Grass-tree
Indigenous name(s) Bowat, Baggup
(Wurundjeri)
Bukkup (Gunditjmara)
Kawee (Djab wurrung) photos by: Papphase and Melburnian
Baggup (Woi wurrung)

Height, Width Varies
Flowering Period Varies
Description:
Australis: A perennial tree up to 3m high with a spreading grass tuft, 1m by 1-3mm, at the top of
the trunk. The flowering spike forms from the tuft, 110-180cm long with small cream white flowers.
Flowering: July to December.
Lutea: A perennial tree around 0.6m x 1m with foliage in an erect grassy tuft, 1m by 3mm and
terminal spike of dense yellow flowers followed by dark brown woody capsules along the spikes.
Flowering: November to February.
Derivation of Name:
Xanthorrhoea; from the Greek words xanthos meaning ‘yellow,’ and rheo meaning ‘to flow,’ a
reference to the resin that is obtained from these plants. Australis; from the Latin word meaning
‘southern,’ referring to the distribution of the species. Lutea; from the Latin word lūteus meaning
‘yellow,’ referring to the yellow flowers.
Uses:
Copious amounts of nectar were harvested from the numerous flowers in the flower stalk. Seeds
were crushed to make flour while the soft white leaf bases (containing 5% sugar) were eaten and
have a sweet nutty taste. Trunk resin was used to attach spearheads to shafts, etc. Fire could be
made by rubbing the dried flower stalk with a piece of hard timber, igniting the fine wood dust
inside. Flower spikes were also used as a spear shaft. The hard, firm leaves could also be used to
cut meat and other things.

The plant is best grown in well-drained loam soils and positioned in full sun to partial sun. It is
Page 83 of 86
REFERENCES
ONLINE RESOURCES
 The Bush Tucker Survival Guide
https://www.survival.org.au/bush_tucker_survival_guide.php
 Australian National Botanic Gardens - Aboriginal Plant Use Trail
http://www.anbg.gov.au/gardens/visiting/exploring/aboriginal-trail/index.html
 Aboriginal Plant Use
http://cpbr.gov.au/aboriginal-resources/index.html
http://cpbr.gov.au/apu/index.html
 Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bush_tucker
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Indigenous_Australian_group_names
 Australian Plants Online - Our Wild Foods to the World
http://anpsa.org.au/APOL25/mar02-5.html
 Walking Tours Of Melbourne - Aboriginal Plants For Food, Tools And Medicine In Melbourne
http://melbournewalks.com.au/aboriginal-food-plants/
 Australian Seed - Bush food & medicines
https://australianseed.com/shop/category/bush-food-medicines
 Australian Succulents - Edible Succulent Plants
http://australiansucculents.com/edible-succulents
 Taste Australia - Bushfood
http://tasteaustralia.biz/bushfood/
 Wildseed Tasmania - Bush Foods
http://www.wildseedtasmania.com.au/bush_food.php
 Goldfields Revegetation - Plant Catalogue
http://www.goldfieldsrevegetation.com.au/PlantCatalogue.asp
 UniServe Science - Aboriginal Use of Native Plants
http://science.uniserve.edu.au/school/curric/stage4_5/nativeplants/gallery/index.html
 Sustainable Gardening Australia - Some Useful Bushfoods
http://www.sgaonline.org.au/bushfoods-info/
 Southern Gipplsand Conservation Society - Field Notes
http://www.sgcs.org.au/fieldnotes.html
 Traditional Aboriginal Uses for Plants Of The Eurobodalla
http://www.goldrushcolony.com.au/australian-gold-history-culture-info/indigenous-
australian-aboriginal-and-koorie-culture/traditional
 Southern Peninsula Indigenous Flora & Fauna Assoc. - Indigenous Gardens
http://www.spiffa.org/gardens.html
 Victorian Aboriginal Corporation for Languages
http://www.vaclang.org.au/
 Melbourne Museum - Milarri Garden
https://museumsvictoria.com.au/website/bunjilaka/visiting/milarri-garden/
 Virtual Library - Aboriginal Languages of Australia
http://www.dnathan.com/VL/index.php
 Australian Plants Society
https://apsvic.org.au/
 Florabank - List of Fact Sheets
http://www.florabank.org.au/lucid/key/species%20navigator/media/html/index.htm#A
 Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria - Flora of Victoria
https://vicflora.rbg.vic.gov.au/
Page 84 of 86
ONLINE RESOURCES (continued)

 Gardening With Angus
http://www.gardeningwithangus.com.au/browse-by-botanic-name/
 Yarra Ranges - Local Plant Directory
http://fe.yarraranges.vic.gov.au/Residents/Trees_Vegetation/Yarra_Ranges_Plant_Direc
tory/Yarra_Ranges_Local_Plant_Directory
 Australian Native Plants Society - Plant Profiles
http://anpsa.org.au/gallery.html
 The Seed Site - The Meaning of Latin Plant Names
http://theseedsite.co.uk/latin.html
 Mornington Peninsula Shire - Flora, Fauna & Biodiversity
https://www.mornpen.vic.gov.au/Your-Property/Environment/Flora-Fauna-Biodiversity
 Atlas of Living Australia
https://www.ala.org.au/
PDF FILES
 Wiradjuri Plant Use in the Murrumbidgee Catchment
Alice Williams and Tim Sides
 The vegetation of the Nepean Peninsula, Victoria - an historical perspective
Claire Moxham, Steve Sinclair, Gidja Walker and Imelda Douglas
 Useful Indigenous Plants of the South East
City of Mount Gambier
 Point Nepean Flora and Fauna Survey
Glenn Ehmke, Andrew Picone, Malcolm Legg, Paul Bertuch,
Gidja Walker, Imelda Douglas and Claire Moxham
 Nyoongar Food Plant Species
Peter Coppin
 Mornington Peninsula Biodiversity: Survey and Research Highlights
Mornington Peninsula Shire
 Mornington Peninsula Ecological Vegetation Class Profiles
Jeff Biosis
 Live Local Plant Local
Nillumbik The Green Wedge Shire
 Aboriginal Plants in the grounds of Monash University - A Guide
Monash University
 Frankston Vegetation Study 2006
Ecology Australia
 Food Safety of Australian Plant Bushfoods
Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation
 Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne Connecting to Country Teachers’ Kit
Royal Botanic Gardens
 Suggested Plants used by Aboriginal People for use in a Bush Tucker Theme Garden
Botanic Gardens Trust, Sydney
 Traditional Bush Tucker Plant Fact Sheets
South East Regional Centre for Urban Landcare
 Bush Tucker in Kidney Failure and Diabetes
Lesley Salem, Elizabeth Thompson, Herbert Leslie Elvin
 Bush Foods and Biodiversity
Landlearn - Department of Primary Industries
Page 85 of 86
PDF FILES (continued)

 Aboriginal Plant Use in south-eastern Australia
Australian National Botanic Gardens
 Aboriginal Use Plants of the Greater Melbourne Area
David De Angelis
 Bush Food Plants of the South East
Natural Resources South East
 Aboriginal Flora and Fauna Names of Victoria
Sue Wesson
BOOKS
 Koorie Plants Koorie People
Nelly Zola and Beth Gott
 Bush Foods of New South Wales
Kathy Stewart
 Coastal Guide to Nature and History 2
Graham Patterson
 Medicinal Plants in Australia
Cheryll Williams
 Aboriginal Plant Collectors
Philip A. Clarke
 Aboriginal People and Their Plants
Philip A. Clarke
 Native trees and Shrubs of South-Eastern Australia 6th Edition (2013)
Leon Costermans
 Peninsula Plants (1995)
Kathie and Peter Strickland
CONTRIBUTORS
 Lachlan Knowles
 Ray Lothian
 James Hampshire
 Greg Smith
 Dhal Schroeder
 Liana Taylor
Page 86 of 86

Uses For Native Plants of The Mornington Peninsula

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STATEMENT OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

COLLECTING BUSH TUCKER

ABOUT THIS BOOK

Acacia dealbata ........................................... 6 Grey Saltbush, Coast Saltbush .............. 21

Australian Bindweed ............................. 34 Burgan ................................................... 48

Sea-berry Salt Bush ............................... 65 Kangaroo Grass ..................................... 76

Flowering Period July to November

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Flowering Period October to December

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Excellent bird habitat. Prune following flowering to keep bushy.

photo by: Laura Levens

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Propagation and maintenance notes:

photo by: Tindo2

Propagation and maintenance notes:

photo by: Zaareo

Propagation and maintenance notes:

photo by: Nathan Johnson

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Plants may be propagated from seed or by dividing the tubers.

photo by: Melburnian

Propagation and maintenance notes:

photo by: Melburnian

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Propagation and maintenance notes:

photo by: Melburnian

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Flowering Period October to April

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Propagation and maintenance notes:

photo by: Lachlan Knowles

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Plants can be propagated from seeds.

photo by: denisbin

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Height, Width To 1m across

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Propagation and maintenance notes:

photo by: Melburnian

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Plant Type Creeper

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Flowering Period September to April

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Propagation and maintenance notes:

photo by: WFTD Hastings

Propagation and maintenance notes:

Can be pruned to maintain shape and used as a hedge plant.