Winter Apple

Myoporum debile

Physical Characteristics

Myoporum debile is an evergreen Shrub growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 1 m (3ft 3in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Australia and New Zealand.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Fruit - raw or cooked[46, 61]. Slightly bitter[144]. A pleasantly salty-sweet flavour[193]. The fruits are 6 - 8mm long[193]. Caution is advised since the fruit probably contains a liver toxin[173].

Medicinal Uses

VD Used in the treatment of V.D. by the Australian Aborigines[152].

Known Hazards

The fruit of this plant probably contains a liver toxin[173].