Antidesma erostre – Native Currant

Antidesma erostre - native currant
Antidesma erostre - Wild Currant
Antidesma erostre - Wild Currant

An interesting medium sized shrub with leathery leaves, bearing clusters of small edible berries in summer to early autumn. The berries are red at mid ripening, and turn darker at full ripeness, which is when the birds will also help themselves to your fruit. They can be eaten raw or used in cooking. Grows in full sun to dappled shade. While it originates in tropical areas, it can withstand light frost, but will perform best in warmer climates and in full sun. Likes well drained but moist soil, added organic matter will help growth. New growth is an attractive red, can be used for informal hedging.

Family : Phyllanthaceae

Cultivar Name:

Plant Type : Large shrub

Width : 2.5

Flowering Time : Spring

Soil Type : Loamy, Sandy loam, Clay loam

Climate Zone : Tropical, Sub-tropical, Warm temperate

Growth Habit : Evergreen

Soil Moisture : Well-drained, Moist moderate drainage

Special Uses : Edible, Decorative fruit

Scientific Name: Antidesma erostre

Common Name : Native Currant

Height : 5

Flower Color : Cream

pH Level : Acid, Neutral

Plant Environment : Low maintenance garden, Container growing

Light : Sunny, Light shade

Lifespan : Perennial

Frost Tolerance : Tolerates light frost

Attracts Wildlife : Bees, Seed eating birds, Other insects