Muntries
Kunzea pomifera (Myrtaceae Family)
The Muntries, or
Muntharis, are a ground hugging native plant of south eastern South
Australia. It has radial branches spreading over sandy ground for
up to 3 metres in all directions. It's small round leaves are about
3 to 4 mm in diameter and the plant displays profuse cream feathery
flowers in spring. The fruit form in clusters and ripen in February
to March.
Muntries hold a significant place in the historical diet of the
Narrindjeri people of the Coorong in the south-east of South
Australia. These fruit played a major part in the diet, not only
when fresh, but also after being dried and stored for the winter
months. They were often traded with other tribes, usually after
being pounded into a paste which was then dried - the original
fruit bar.
The fruit, which tastes
like apple with a juniper essence, are now cultivated extensively
on low trellises. There are many clones which have been selected
for heavy fruit production, colour and flavour. The harvested fruit
are sold fresh, frozen or dried and make a wonderful addition to
sweet or savoury dishes, jams, chutney or simply as a dessert with
ice cream.
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