Red Bidibid / Hooked Burr - Acaena novae-zelandiae (Bidgee widgee) seeds

Perennial Ground Cover – Versatile and Resilient

Quick Facts

• Type: Perennial spreading plant
• Height/Spread: Ground-cover, spreads via rooting leaf nodes
• Soil: Ordinary, well-drained; tolerates poorly-drained soils
• Light: Sun to semi-shade
• Drought Tolerance: Thrives in extended dry conditions but grows best with regular moisture
• Flowering: Globular greenish-white flowers in spring
• Fruit: Burr-like seed heads that attach to clothing and animal fur
• Wildlife Value: Seeds provide food for rosellas

Why Grow This Plant?

This perennial ground cover is an excellent choice for soil stabilization, especially on banks and roadsides within its native range. Its vigorous growth habit allows it to tolerate some treading, making it a practical and aesthetic addition to gardens and landscapes. The plant’s adaptability to various soil conditions and extended dry periods ensures resilience in challenging climates.

Bush Food Note

• Edible Parts:
  • Green seeds (burrs) and young leaves can be brewed into a medicinal tea.
• Culinary Applications:
  • Enjoyed as a tonic tea, traditionally appreciated for its therapeutic benefits.

Bush Medicine

• Internal Uses:
  • An infusion of leaves is used to treat kidney problems, bladder and stomach complaints, gallstones, and rheumatism.
  • Decoction serves as a tonic for overall health and a remedy for specific ailments, including kidney troubles and venereal diseases.
• External Uses:
  • A leaf infusion is applied as a wash to open wounds for antiseptic treatment.

Disclaimer: Information about traditional bush medicine is provided for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before use

How to Grow

1. Planting Instructions:

   • Surface sow seeds and cover lightly with a thin layer of gravel.
   • Ensure seeds are exposed to light to stimulate germination.

2. Soil and Position:

   • Adaptable to a variety of soils but prefers well-drained conditions.
   • Thrives in sunny to semi-shaded locations.

3. Watering and Maintenance:

   • Regular watering promotes vigorous growth, though the plant is drought-tolerant once established.

Uses in Your Garden

• Soil Stabilization: Perfect for banks and roadsides.
• Ground Cover: Fills bare spots quickly with vigorous growth.
• Wildlife Habitat: Attracts and feeds rosellas with its seed heads.

Germination Tips

• Timing: Germination occurs in 3–6 weeks under optimal conditions.
• Light Requirement: Light exposure is essential for successful germination.
• Care: Keep soil moist until seedlings establish.

Order Now

This versatile perennial ground cover is perfect for gardens, landscapes, and practical applications like soil stabilization. Add it to your collection for beauty, resilience, and a touch of bush tucker tradition!