Doublegee, Southern threecornerjack

Emex australis

Physical Characteristics

Emex australis is a ANNUAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in). It is in flower all year. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S. Africa. Introduced and naturalized in all mainland states of Australia.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Young leaves cooked[144, 177]. The leaves contain oxalates and are laxative in large quantities[144, 177].

Medicinal Uses

When eaten in quantity, the leaves have a laxative effect upon the body[144, 177].

Known Hazards

None known