Calandrinia remota

Physical Characteristics

Calandrinia remota is a ANNUAL/PERENNIAL growing to 0.1 m (0ft 4in). It is frost tender. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Australia.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Root Seed Edible Uses: Leaves - raw. The leaves contain oxalic acid and so some caution is advised, see the notes above on toxicity. Seed - raw or ground into a meal[144]. The seed is very small and fiddly to harvest, especially since it ripens intermittently over a period of several weeks[K]. Root - raw or cooked[144].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

The plant contains oxalic acid, so it should only be used in moderation[144]. Oxalic acid can lock up certain of the nutrients in food and, if eaten in excess, can lead to nutritional deficiencies. It is, however, perfectly safe in small amounts and its acid taste adds a nice flavour to salads. Cooking the plant will reduce the quantity of oxalic acid. People with a tendency to rheumatism, arthritis, gout, kidney stones and hyperacidity should take especial caution if including this plant in their diet since it can aggravate their condition[238].