Currant Bush
Scaevola spinescens
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Pl. 1152 — Scaevola spinescens
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IOverview
Overview
The Currant Bush (Scaevola spinescens) is a shrub native to the eastern and western coasts of Australia, thriving in habitats such as New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and Western Australia. This plant is known for its edible fruit, which can be enjoyed directly or incorporated into various culinary dishes. The Currant Bush prefers full sun to partial shade, grows best in moist soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils, and reaches a height of about 1.5 meters. One distinctive feature is its ability to adapt to diverse environmental conditions, making it a resilient choice for gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Currant Bush?
The Currant Bush (Scaevola spinescens) is a shrub native to the eastern and western coasts of Australia, thriving in habitats such as New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and Western Australia.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Currant Bush thrives in full to partial sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows up to 1.5 meters tall and is native to regions including New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and Western Australia. Propagation can occur through seeds or cuttings. While hardiness isn't specified, it is generally hardy in temperate regions. Fruit from the Currant Bush is edible.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Mature size
1.5 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Currant Bush for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple planting of Currant Bush in a sunny spot, and you'll have a low-maintenance plant that will thrive.
- 1
What you'll need
A few Currant Bush plants or seeds, a trowel, and some mulch.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or autumn when the weather is mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure your soil is well-draining. Amend with compost if necessary.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants or sow seeds directly into the ground, spacing them about 1 meter apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid direct sunlight for a few days after planting.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun or partial shade and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune lightly in spring to encourage growth.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of the Currant Bush (Scaevola spinescens) is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. It is commonly consumed fresh but can also be dried for later use. The fruit adds a tart flavor to jams, jellies, and desserts.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 6 native
Broader regions
native:New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, Western Australia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 1152e5c0-26a5-422a-9d14-399223fdfca5
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