Contents
Description
Astroloma Humifusum, also known as “Native Cranberry” or “Cranberry Heath,” is a low-growing shrub that belongs to the Ericaceae family. It is native to the southern part of Australia, where it grows in sandy and well-drained soil.This evergreen shrub can reach up to 30 cm in height and 1 meter in width. It has small, leathery, and dark-green leaves that are around 2-3 cm long. During the flowering season, which is from November to February, it produces small pink or white flowers that are bell-shaped and around 1 cm in diameter. The flowers are followed by edible red berries that resemble cranberries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ericaceae |
| Genus | Astroloma |
Appearance
Astroloma Humifusum is a low-growing shrub that has a spreading habit. It can reach up to 30 cm in height and 1 meter in width. It has small, leathery, and dark-green leaves that are around 2-3 cm long. During the flowering season, which is from November to February, it produces small pink or white flowers that are bell-shaped and around 1 cm in diameter. The flowers are followed by edible red berries that resemble cranberries.
Care Guide
Water
Astroloma Humifusum prefers well-drained soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist. During the winter, reduce watering to prevent the soil from becoming too wet.
Fertilization
Astroloma Humifusum does not require frequent fertilization. You can fertilize the plant once a year in the spring using a slow-release fertilizer that is high in phosphorus.
Soil
Astroloma Humifusum prefers sandy and well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy or clay-based, amend it with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
Sunlight
Astroloma Humifusum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not flower as profusely.
Hardiness Zones
Astroloma Humifusum is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Astroloma Humifusum is generally a hardy plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-drained.
Habitat
Astroloma Humifusum is native to the southern part of Australia, where it grows in sandy and well-drained soil. It is often found in heathlands, woodlands, and coastal areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Astroloma Humifusum a good plant for containers?
A: Yes, Astroloma Humifusum can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container has drainage holes.
Q: Can Astroloma Humifusum be grown indoors?
A: Astroloma Humifusum is not a good plant for indoor cultivation. It requires full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Q: Is Astroloma Humifusum drought-tolerant?
A: Astroloma Humifusum can tolerate some drought once established, but it prefers moist soil.
Q: Can Astroloma Humifusum be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Astroloma Humifusum can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.
Related Plants
- Astroloma Conostephioides
- Astroloma Pinifolium
- Astroloma Sieberi
References
- “Astroloma humifusum.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). https://anpsa.org.au/a-hum.html
- “Astroloma humifusum.” Florabank. https://www.florabank.org.au/lucid/key/species%20navigator/media/html/Astroloma_humifusum.htm
- “Astroloma humifusum.” Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria. https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/plants/plants-by-genus/astroloma/astroloma-humifusum
