Wiry ground-berry facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Wiry ground-berry |
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Native currant (Acrotriche depressa). Beyeria Conservation Park, Kangaroo Island, South Australia | |
Scientific classification | |
Genus: |
Acrotriche
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Species: |
depressa
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Occurrence data from Australasian Virtual Herbarium |
The native currant (Acrotriche depressa), also called wiry ground-berry, is a small plant that stays green all year. It's a type of shrub that grows naturally in southern Australia. You can find it in wet soils, whether they are sandy or heavy clay.
What Does the Native Currant Look Like?
This plant has olive green leaves that are about 0.5 cm (0.2 inches) long. Its flowers are small and greenish, shaped like tubes, and about 0.3 cm (0.1 inches) long. These flowers grow tightly together in groups called spikes, which are usually 2 to 3 cm (0.8 to 1.2 inches) long.
The plant also produces berries. These berries are juicy and can be pink or dark purple. They are safe to eat!
How People Use Native Currants
Native currants are quite tasty! People often eat the fresh berries right off the plant. They are also popular for making delicious jams and jellies.