Ruby Saltbush Plant

Ruby Saltbush Plant (Enchylaena tomentosa) produces tiny edible fruits with a surprising botanical twist: their colourful flesh develops from the flower’s outer covering. In turn, these jewel-like morsels bring colour, flavour and a connection to Australian bush foods into your garden.

The Western Australian Museum records eating the berries raw or soaking them in water to make a sweet tea. It also documents their use as a source of red dye. Together, these uses give this modest shrub a story extending beyond its ornamental appeal.

Tiny Fruits, Changing Colours

The berry-like fruits measure approximately 5–8 mm across. As they develop, green, yellow and red stages can appear together, creating a miniature display among the silvery foliage. Before this colourful transformation, small, inconspicuous flowers appear.

Fine white hairs cover the narrow, fleshy leaves, giving them their soft grey appearance. These hairs help reflect heat, while the succulent leaves suit the plant’s dry native environments. Therefore, a closer look reveals practical adaptations behind its delicate appearance.

Common names include Ruby Saltbush, Ruby Salt Bush, Barrier Saltbush, Plum Puddings, Berry Cottonbush and Gurgudj.

Growing Your Ruby Saltbush Plant

Native across mainland Australia, this evergreen shrub grows widely in arid and semi-arid regions. However, its natural habitats also include coastal sands and saline ground.

Plants often remain below 50 cm tall, although some forms reach approximately one metre. Similarly, their branching habit varies from low and spreading to more upright.

Choose full sun and well-drained soil. During establishment, water regularly, then adjust watering to rainfall and soil conditions. Once established, plants tolerate dry periods, moderate frost and some soil salinity. However, in humid climates, prioritise drainage and avoid persistently wet roots.

Ruby Saltbush Plant in an Edible Garden

Use this small shrub along a sunny border or within a dedicated native food garden. In either setting, its silver foliage offers contrast between greener plants.

For another Australian native food plant, explore Old Man Saltbush from our range. Together, they offer a starting point for discovering the diversity of Australian edible plants.