Pebble Bush / Nut Bush - Stylobasium spathulatum (Kuparta) seed

Stylobasium spathulatum - Kuparta
A distinctive shrub with spoon-shaped leaves, valued for its edible seeds and traditional medicinal uses.

Quick Facts

• Height: Erect shrub, typically 0.5–2.5 meters tall.
• Flowers: Green-yellow to brown blooms from May to October.
• Foliage: Spoon-shaped leaves, giving the plant its species name.
• Habitat: Found across a wide range of environments in the Northern Territory, Queensland, and Western Australia.

Why Grow Stylobasium spathulatum?

Kuparta is a unique and hardy native shrub, perfect for bush food and medicinal gardens. Its distinctive foliage, adaptability to diverse habitats, and cultural significance make it a valuable addition to any landscape. With its edible seeds and traditional smoke therapy uses, Kuparta connects gardeners to Australia’s rich Indigenous heritage.

Bush Food Note

The seeds of Stylobasium spathulatum are edible and have been traditionally used as a bush food:

• Preparation: Seeds are consumed raw or prepared as a snack.
• Harvesting: Collect seeds once fully mature for optimal flavor and quality.

Bush Medicine

Kuparta has traditional medicinal applications, particularly in smoke therapy:

• Leaves: Used in smoke therapy for treating various ailments.

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

How to Grow

1. Sowing Instructions:

   • Germination occurs best in cooler weather, typically in late April.
   • Treat fresh seeds with dry heat at 100°C for 3 hours to improve germination rates.

2. Position:

   • Plant in a sunny or partially shaded location.
   • Suitable for a variety of soil types, reflecting its wide natural habitat.

3. Care Tips:

   • Water regularly during establishment; drought-tolerant once mature.
   • Minimal pruning required; shape lightly if desired.
   • Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds.

Uses in Your Garden

• Bush Food Garden: Provides edible seeds with a traditional culinary connection.
• Medicinal Garden: A perfect choice for those exploring native plants with traditional uses.
• Ornamental Value: Unique spoon-shaped leaves and hardy growth habit add character to native landscapes.
• Wildlife Habitat: Supports local biodiversity by attracting insects and other fauna.

Germination Tips

• Timeframe: Seeds germinate in cooler weather, typically in late autumn.
• Pre-Treatment: Treat seeds with dry heat (100°C) for 3 hours before sowing.
• Moisture: Keep soil moist but avoid waterlogging.
• Light: Ensure seeds are placed in a sunny or partially shaded location.

Order Now

Experience the resilience and cultural significance of Stylobasium spathulatum. With its edible seeds, medicinal applications, and striking foliage, Kuparta is a versatile and rewarding plant for Australian gardens.

Order your Kuparta seeds today and grow a unique piece of Australia’s natural heritage!