Wombat Berry

(Eustrephus latifolius)

Wombat Berry (Eustrephus latifolius)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Eustrephus latifolius, commonly known as Wombat Berry, is an evergreen vine that is native to a variety of habitats including sclerophyll forests, woodlands, heathlands, shrublands, gallery forests, and rainforests across Malesia, the Pacific Islands, and eastern Australia. It typically exhibits a twining growth habit and can reach lengths of several meters. The leaves of Wombat Berry are variable, often lanceolate to ovate, and can be up to 10 cm long. The plant produces small, bell-shaped flowers that range in color from pink to mauve, and occasionally white, which are generally considered modestly showy. Flowering occurs from spring to early summer. The fruit is a distinctive yellow-orange capsule that splits open to reveal numerous black seeds, which adds to its ornamental value.

Wombat Berry is valued for its versatility and resilience, making it suitable for a range of garden settings, including as a ground cover or for trellising on fences and arbors. It is also appreciated for its edible tubers, which are sweet when baked, adding a culinary use to its profile. In cultivation, it prefers well-drained soils, moderate watering, and can tolerate a range of light conditions from full sun to part shade. While it is not typically prone to serious diseases or pests, it can become invasive if not managed properly, especially outside its native range. Gardeners should be aware of its potential to spread via its tuberous root system.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Vine
  • Height: 3-6 feet
  • Width: 3-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to sclerophyll forests, woodlands, heathlands, shrublands, gallery forests, and rainforests across Malesia, the Pacific Islands, and eastern Australia

Other Names

Common Names: Wombat Berry, Wombat Creeper

Scientific Names: , Eustrephus latifolius, Eustrephus amplexifolius, Eustrephus angustifolius, Eustrephus brownii, Eustrephus brownii var. angustifolius, Eustrephus latifolius f. leucanthus, Eustrephus latifolius f. rubens, Eustrephus latifolius subsp. angustifolius, Eustrephus latifolius subsp. fimbriatus

GBIF Accepted Name: