Austromyrtus dulcis (it’s botanical name) is in the family Myrtaceae that includes Eucalyptus, Leptospermum, Melaleuca, Syzygium and others.

Usually growing as a groundcover under 1m height, it is commonly seen in coastal forest and heathland from Third Headland near Urunga, northwards into Queensland. A good place to see it growing naturally is at Hungry Head and as a cultivated plant in front of the court house in Bellingen.

The acceptance of a wide range of planting conditions makes Midyim a reliable landscaping plant. It will take full sun or light shade and will tolerate most soil conditions, except for boggy situations. Try it as a groundcover underneath trees, or as a low formal hedge; the possibilities are endless.

During summer, small speckled grey berries, about the size of peas are ripe and ready to be eaten. Try some, as they are one of the tastier bush foods available in our local area.

Roly Poly or Apple Berry is another local plant that shows great versatility. Botanically known as Billardiera scandens, it is seen growing as a light climber through shrubs and small trees, or as a groundcover / low shrub on bare ground.

Roly Poly produces a long succession of attractive green tinged white flowers during the warmer months. These are followed by small sausage shaped fruits, which when ripe will soften and fall to the ground. These soft fruits have a slight lemon tang and a jelly consistency. They can be eaten raw or used in jams or other dishes limited only by your imagination.

Try Roly Poly as a ground cover on steep banks or as a climber along fences. Plant in sun or part shade and in all but poorly drained soils. Watch out for honeyeaters visiting the plant in summer!

These and many other bush foods will be available from the large range of Australian native plants offered by ‘Boggy Creek Natives’ at the plant fair.