Family:
CHENOPODIACEAE
Enchylaena tomentosa
Ruby Saltbush
Other Names: Barrier Saltbush, Plum Puddings, Berry Cottonbush, Gurgudj
Regional Subspecies:
n/a
HABIT:
Prostrate, spreading, or erect shrub to about 1.5 m high. Shallowly grooved branchlets with green to bluish-green, hairy, succulent leaves.
HABITAT & SITE PREFERENCE:
Very widespread in all vegetation communities and soil types. Prefers well-drained soils. Tolerates drought, frost, and some salinity. Prefers 300 to 500 mm rainfall in the Riverina region.
SEED COLLECTION & PROPAGATION:
Collect seeds late Oct-late Apr. Monitor closely as mature seeds shed in 3-14 days. Propagate from seed (germinates readily) or from cuttings. Fast growth rate. Available from specialist nurseries.
VALUES & USES:
Attractive plant, excellent for containers. Succulent red berries eaten by First Nations People. Berries can be soaked in water to make a drink. Responds well to pruning.