Purple Apple-berry, Climbing Blueberry, Blue Bell Climber
Billardiera longiflora
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
The fruit is edible and has a sweet, apple-like flavor. It can be eaten fresh or used in jams and preserves. The plant is attractive and can be used as an ornamental climber to cover fences, walls, or trellises. It attracts pollinators, benefitting the garden ecosystem. There are no widely known subspecies or cultivars significantly impacting permaculture use.
Permapeople description
Native Australian vine with edible berries
Botanical description
Billardiera longiflora is a twining climber native to southeastern Australia. It features slender, wiry stems and alternate, lance-shaped leaves that are typically 2-5 cm long. The flowers are bell-shaped, approximately 1-2 cm long, and range in color from creamy-white to pale green, often tinged with purple. The fruit is a cylindrical berry, initially green, ripening to a distinctive deep purple or blue color. It is generally 1-2 cm long and contains numerous small seeds.
Companion planting
Limited information is available on specific companion planting relationships. However, as a climber, it benefits from support structures like trees or shrubs. Consider planting it near plants that prefer similar growing conditions (well-drained soil and partial shade). Avoid planting near aggressive species that could outcompete it for resources.
Propagation methods
Propagation is typically achieved through seeds or cuttings. Seed propagation requires scarification and can be slow. Cuttings, taken from semi-hardwood growth in late spring or early summer, offer a more reliable and faster method of propagation. Layering is also possible.
History and traditions
Indigenous Australians traditionally consumed the berries as a food source. Early European settlers also recognized the edibility of the fruit, incorporating it into their diets. While not extensively documented, the plant likely held some cultural significance for Aboriginal communities in the regions where it grew.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs primarily in spring and summer (September to January in the Southern Hemisphere). Fruit ripens from late summer to autumn (February to May in the Southern Hemisphere). Planting is best undertaken in spring or autumn. Pruning can be carried out after fruiting to maintain shape and promote new growth.