Here in Australia, our native flora offers a chance to reconnect with Country, culture, and biodiversity. And many native plants are also used for culinary purposes and are described as bush tucker or bush foods. Whether in a school, home or workplace, creating a bush tucker garden is a fun, interactive way to learn.
An estimated 5,000 species of native food were used by Indigenous Australians. First Nations peoples learnt which ones were safe to eat raw, and which ones needed to be cooked. With research finding many of these bush tucker plants are packed with vitamins and antioxidants and many plants now being cultivated, we can appreciate the incredible bounty available to us. Additionally, bush tucker plants often require less maintenance than introduced species, and thrive in the environments they have evolved in. But the true magic lies in their connection to Aboriginal culture.
Bush tucker gardens are a wonderful gateway to understanding the deep connection Indigenous Australians have to Country, encompassing the land, plants, and animals. These gardens not only attract native wildlife and promote healthy ecosystems, but also serve as a bridge to ancient knowledge. We learn how to care for Country, appreciate the sacredness of plants, and understand their diverse uses.
Here are a few examples of delicious and culturally significant native Australian plants you can include in your garden, along with a taste of their culinary uses:
Bush Basil (Plectranthus graveolens): This fragrant herb adds a unique twist to Mediterranean dishes. Consider replacing your usual basil in a casserole or a tomato and bocconcini salad with a small amount of bush basil for a hint of eucalyptus and spice. Able to with stand dry climates, this low-growing shrub is suitable for both garden beds and pots on your balcony. Bush basil which is sometimes known as ‘hot basil’ is traditionally used for its medicinal properties, in ceremonies as well as insect repellant.
Pigface (Carpobrutus glaucescens): Don't be fooled by its name! Pigface is a succulent with edible leaves and fruits that taste like a salty strawberry. Indigenous Australians traditionally used the fruit as a food source, and the leaves can be eaten raw, cooked, or even used as a topical treatment on blue bottle stings. The leaves can be boiled or stir-fried like green beans, and the fruit can be enjoyed fresh in salads or desserts. For a taste of summer, try pickling the fruit or using it to make a zesty salsa.
Chocolate Lily (Dichopogon strictus): As the name suggests, this plant's flowers have a delightful chocolate scent. But the real treat lies underground – its tubers can be eaten raw or cooked. These versatile tubers can be roasted, boiled, or mashed, adding a subtle sweetness to any dish. Feeling adventurous? Try pickling the young tubers for a unique flavour sensation. The fragrant flowers are also edible, and can be used to add a touch of elegance to salads or desserts.
Finger Lime (Citrus australasica): This unique citrus fruit boasts vibrant colours and a caviar-like pulp that bursts with flavor. Indigenous Australians traditionally found finger limes in the rainforests of northern New South Wales and Queensland on Barunggam, Wakka Wakka, Gumbainggir and Bundjalung lands. Finger limes are a true conversation starter at any meal. Imagine the delightful pop of citrus pearls exploding in your mouth when you add them to fresh oysters, sashimi, or even a simple bowl of yogurt. These versatile fruits can also be used to create unique condiments like chutneys, jams, or marmalades.
Red Back Australian Ginger (Alpinia caerulea ‘Atherton’): Don't overlook the ginger family when it comes to bush tucker! This vibrant plant offers a spicy root and refreshing berries. The ginger-scented rhizome can be used just like regular ginger, adding a delicious kick to savory dishes, desserts, jams, and even teas. The bright blue berries have a pleasant lemony ginger flavour, just don’t eat the seeds. A shade-loving perennial that prefers a constantly moist soil. The beautiful red foliage adds a pop of colour to your balcony or garden bed. For more information and inspiration on the above please visit TuckerBush.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious and culturally significant native Australian plants available. By incorporating bush tucker into your garden, you can create a space that fosters learning, respect, and a deeper connection to the environment and its rich history. So, get your hands dirty this spring and explore the wonders of native Australian plants on your plate and in your garden!
Article by Amanda Paskin
Article header image by Shairi Infinite from Pixabay
All other images sourced from Indigigrow