Maroon Bush – Scaevola spinescens
Another great multi-purpose bush tucker plant ideal for the organic garden!
This hardy shrub features dark berries, spiny mature growth and the fan-shaped flowers typical of Scaevola species.
Maroon Bush (aka. Currant Bush) features in Indigenous Australian bush medicine, where it has been traditionally used in remedies for conditions like heart disease, intestinal conditions, kidney and urinary conditions, and as a general health tonic.
The leaves, flowers and berries can be simmered (covered) in water for up to 40 minutes, then left to cool overnight before straining and drinking. The berries can be eaten and taste best when ripened to a purple-black colour.
Growing Conditions and Garden Appeal
This species flowers most of the year and fruit follows flowering, so a healthy Maroon Bush will regularly provide a scattering of small berries. Harvest leaves and berries by hand but watch for prickly spikes.
Maroon Bush is an evergreen similar in appearance to rosemary and does well in similar conditions. Choose a sunny position with fertile soil that drains easily. Established plants will tolerate drought, sandy soils and some salinity.
Growing no bigger than two metres, this bushfood also attracts birds and insects and is ideal for an empty space, hedgerows or even an edible bonsai.
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