Threlkeldia diffusa
coast bonefruit
Overview
Threlkeldia diffusa is a prostrate to low-spreading perennial herb or subshrub of the family Amaranthaceae, growing 4–12 inches (10–30 cm) tall and spreading 12–32 inches (30–80 cm) across. The trailing, much-branched stems carry fleshy, cylindrical leaves 0.2–0.6 inch (5–15 mm) long that are bright green, often flushed red in sun and dry conditions. Small, inconspicuous flowers form in the leaf axils through spring and summer. The fruit is small and succulent at first, then dries to a hard, bony case, the source of the name coast bonefruit. T. diffusa grows on coastal dunes, cliff tops, saltmarsh margins, and saline flats around southern Australia. It tolerates salt spray, drought, and sandy or saline soils, binding loose ground with its spreading stems, but it is short-lived and intolerant of heavy shade and waterlogged soils. Growth becomes sparse and leggy away from open, sunny positions.
Native Range
Native to southern Australia, on coastal dunes, cliff tops, saltmarsh margins, and saline flats around the southern and western coasts.Suggested Uses
Used as a groundcover for coastal dunes, saline sites, and erosion control on exposed banks. Suited to sandy, salt-affected, low-water positions in full sun. Spaced 12–20 inches (30–50 cm) apart for cover.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height4" - 1'
Width/Spread1' - 2'8"
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
bright green, red-flushed in sunGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight