Myrteola nummularia

Notes

Cultivation

Succeeds in any reasonably good soil^[8] including dry ones. Prefers a moderately fertile well-drained loam in a sunny position^[5][7]. Prefers a cool position according to another report. Tolerates maritime exposure^[9]. This species is not very hardy when grown outdoors in Britain, succeeding to the south and west of London^[5]. A group of plants in a sunny position on a rock garden at Kew Gardens seem to be perfectly happy and hardy, producing a reasonable crop of fruit in December 1996[K]. A good carpeting plant for moist stones etc in a rockery^[5]. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus^[7].

Propagation

Pre-soak the seed for 24 hours in warm water and then sow it in late winter in a greenhouse. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots as soon as they are large enough to handle and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts[K]. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 7 - 10cm with a heel, July/August in a frame. Pot up in the autumn and overwinter in a cold frame. Plant out in late spring. High percentage^[10]. Cuttings of mature wood of the current seasons growth, 7 - 12cm with a heel, November in a shaded and frost free frame. Plant out in late spring or early autumn. High percentage^[10]. Layering.

Range

S. America - S. Chile, Falklands.

Habitat

Raised parts of bogs, especially with sphagnum^[6].

Known hazards

None known

Edible uses

Fruit - raw or cooked. A sweet and agreeable flavour^[1][2]. The fruit is up to 1cm in diameter, it has a soft juicy flesh and a delicious slightly aromatic flavour[K]. It is produced in late autumn and early winter, and is a very valuable fruit at this time of the year[K]. The leaves are a tea substitute^[3].

Material uses

Suitable for ground cover when spaced about 45cm apart each way, the plants form a carpet of low branches that root as they spread^[4]. Plants are a bit slow to become established and will need weeding for their first few years after planting[K].

Medicinal uses

None known