Hortiforum

General Info – Muntries, Muntaberry, Emu Apples, Native Cranberries

A flavour bomb native to the semi-arid plains of Western Victoria, Muntries is an excellent low-maintenance native bush tucker. These plants produce clusters of small berries, up to 1 cm in diameter, that mature to a green, red, or purple hue. The crunchy fruits have a spicy-Apple flavour, reminiscent of a Granny Smith apple with Cinnamon, complemented by notes of Sultana and Juniper. Muntries can be enjoyed fresh or used in desserts such as fruit salads and pies. They are also great for chutneys, syrups, jams, and sauces. The berries can be frozen for storage and are incredibly rich in antioxidants, significantly surpassing Blueberries. Flowering occurs from late spring to early summer, with fruit developing on one-year-old wood. As a member of the Myrtaceae family, Muntries are related to Guava, Cherry Guava, Allspice, Feijoa, and Ceylon Hill Gooseberry, with ripe Muntries often displaying a purple tinge that gives them a particular resemblance to the latter.
Muntries are native to the semi-arid plains and sandy soils of Western Victoria, extending to the Mediterranean Yorke Peninsula in South Australia, and are commonly found in the Little Desert and Big Desert national parks. Average rainfall in their native range varies from 400 to 700 mm. These plants do not tolerate waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and fungal issues; therefore, well-draining soil is essential, with sandy soil being ideal. Fertile soils can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering. Like other Australian natives, Muntries are intolerant of phosphorus-rich soils and thrive in native soil mixes. They prefer a soil pH that ranges from neutral to alkaline. While they are adapted to semi-arid climates and benefit from a dry period to induce flowering in spring, prolonged drought can diminish fruit quality. Occasional watering once flowering has begun can be beneficial in dry periods. Muntries can tolerate frost and cool winter conditions; in their native range, winter mean minimum temperatures are often below 5 degrees Celsius, and frosts are relatively common. However, exposed and windy positions are not ideal, as they can reduce pollinator activity. Trellised plants require greater protection from strong winds, while prostrate shrubs are notably more tolerant. Once established, Muntries are very low-maintenance and well-suited to container cultivation, where excellent drainage and low-phosphorus soil can be provided.
Naturally a low-lying to semi-upright shrub below 1m tall, Muntries can be trained onto a trellis for easier maintenance, harvesting, and more efficient use of space. In spring, they produce an abundance of beautiful flowers featuring long white stamens typical of the Myrtaceae family. Their small but lush evergreen foliage has a distinctly native appearance, making them an excellent choice as ground cover in an ornamental native garden.

Plant Profile/Properties