Common names

Ruby Saltbush, Barrier Saltbush, Plum Puddings

Scientific names

Enchylaena tomentosa

Family

Chenopodiaceae.

Genus

Enchylaena.

Presence in Australia

This specie has been identified in the following Australian states: Qld, NSW, ACT, Vic, Tas, SA, NT, WA.

Habitat

Grows in a wide range of soil types. Most often found in well drained sandy soils.

Habit

A sub-shrub (that is, a low-growing, semi-woody plant) with procumbent or ascending pubescent, trailing branches which may grow to 1 m long. A height of 1 m is occasionally attained, however, plants are often less than half this size and some forms are prostrate.

Characteristics

The berries are edible and the plant provides useful sheep-feed in dry periods.  It is an important food source for many bush birds and invertebrates including Parrots, honeyeaters,
wattlebirds.

Flowering

Mainly Dec-May.

Propagation

The species is propagated successfully from seed or cuttings.  Should germinate in 1-4 weeks.