Plant Profile Native Currant - Antidesma erostre

Plant Profile Native Currant - Antidesma erostre

Common Names: Native Currant, Herbert River Cherry, Wild Currant
Scientific Name: Antidesma erostre
Family: Phyllanthaceae
Plant Type: Small tree or shrub

Physical Description

• Height: 2–5 metres, occasionally taller under ideal conditions.
• Spread: 1–3 metres, forming a dense canopy.
• Leaves: Oval, glossy, and dark green with a leathery texture.
• Flowers: Small, inconspicuous, cream or greenish-yellow flowers growing in clusters, often appearing in spring.
• Fruit: Small, round, dark purple to black berries that ripen in summer and are edible when fully ripe.

Habitat and Distribution

• Native Range: Tropical and subtropical rainforests of northern Queensland, Australia.
• Habitat: Found in lowland and upland rainforests, often near watercourses.
• Climate Zones: Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates.

Growing Conditions

• Light: Prefers partial shade but tolerates full sun in humid environments. Makes a great understory planting.
• Soil: Well-draining, fertile soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5–7.5).
• Water: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. Prefers moist but not waterlogged soils.
• Temperature: Grows best in temperatures between 20–30°C. Sensitive to frost.
• Fertiliser: Benefits from the addition of organic matter or compost during planting. Being a native plant, it thrives at many of my clients properties without continuous fertilisers added. Avoid phosphorus-rich fertilisers.

Uses in Permaculture

• Edible Berries: Fruits are a bush tucker food, eaten fresh, dried, or processed into jams, sauces, and desserts.
• Wildlife Habitat: Provides food for birds and other native wildlife, enhancing biodiversity.
• Shade Plant: Its dense foliage offers shade for understory plants in food forests or permaculture gardens.
• Erosion Control: The root system helps stabilise soil, particularly in riparian zones.

Edible and Other Uses

• Berries: Ripe berries are sweet and tangy, used in Indigenous diets. Unripe berries are sour and astringent.
• Traditional Uses: Indigenous Australians have used the plant for food and traditional medicine, although specific uses vary by region.

Propagation

• Seeds: Sow fresh seeds in a well-draining seed-raising mix. Germination can take several weeks to months.
• Cuttings: Semi-hardwood cuttings taken in early spring root more reliably than seeds.
  

Seasonal Care in the southern hemisphere 

• Spring (September–November): Plant new specimens and fertilise with organic compost.
• Summer (December–February): Harvest ripe berries and water during dry spells.
• Autumn (March–May): Propagate via seeds or cuttings. Mulch to retain soil moisture.
• Winter (June–August): Protect from frost in cooler regions.

Pests and Diseases

• Common Pests: Rarely affected by pests, though fruit flies may target ripening berries in some areas.
• Diseases: Generally disease-resistant, but ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.

Harvesting and Maintenance

• Fruit Harvest: Pick berries when they are fully ripe (dark purple to black) for the best flavour.
• Pruning: Prune lightly to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.

Special Considerations

• Wildlife Interaction: The berries are a valuable food source for native birds, which may compete with humans for the harvest.
• Slow Growth: A slow-growing plant, particularly in its early stages, so patience is required.

Antidesma erostre is an excellent addition to tropical and subtropical gardens, offering edible fruits, wildlife support, and aesthetic appeal.

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About the Author

Doreen Jachmann from Nourished Landscapes has been providing permaculture services for over 10 years.

Doreen is passionate about helping people create sustainable and resilient landscapes.

Nourished Landscapes offer a variety of services, including:

* Permaculture design and installation

* Permaculture education, presentations and workshops

* Permaculture consulting

If you are interested in learning more about permaculture, please contact us today!