Native Currant

Coprosma billardieri

Physical Characteristics

Coprosma billardieri is an evergreen Shrub growing to 3 m (9ft 10in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9. It is in leaf all year. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Australia - New South Wales, Tasmania, Victoria.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; Dappled Shade; Cultivated Beds; South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Edible Uses: Coffee Fruit - raw or cooked. Sweet and juicy[144, 157, 173], but with little flavour[225]. The red fruit is about 7mm in diameter[200, 225]. The roasted seed is an excellent coffee substitute[153].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known