Common name: Broad-leaved Native Cherry
Exocarpos latifolius R.Br. APNI*
Description: Erect to spreading shrub or small tree 2–10 m high; young growth ± hoary; branchlets terete.
Leaves broad-ovate, elliptic or obovate, mostly 3–7 cm long, 20–40 mm wide, apex obtuse, ± emarginate, mucronate, palmately veined, dull yellowish green; petiole 5–20 mm long.
Flowers in slender, clustered or branched spikes mostly 0.5–2 cm long. Tepals 5, ± triangular, 0.5–1 mm long, green. Fruiting pedicel obovoid, 4–8 mm long, red, succulent, edible and palatable when ripe.
Drupe ellipsoid, 6–9 mm long, scurfy, reddish; tepals ± persistent.
Flowering: spring–summer.
Distribution and occurrence: Widespread in a range of habitats; coastal districts, north from Evans Head.
NSW subdivisions: NC
Other Australian states: Qld W.A. N.T.
The timber is fragrant and dark-coloured and is used for cabinet making. An infusion of seeds and bark was used as a contraceptive by Aborigines.
Text by B. Wiecek Taxon concept: Flora of NSW 3 (1992)
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