Around the World in 40 Fruits – Volume 33 – By Dr. Marli Botha – Article 33 of 40
By Dr. Marli Botha
Yes, the Riberry (Syzygium luehmannii), also known as small-leaved Lilly Pilly, is often considered Australia’s national fruit, used by Indigenous Australians for centuries for food and medicine.
Let’s step into the Australian bush and discover why this vibrant native berry remains one of the continent’s hidden culinary gems:
- The riberry is prized for its tart, spicy flavour with notes of clove and cinnamon, making it popular in jams, sauces, and drinks.
- The beautiful Lilly Pilly, and its similar yet different cousin the Riberry, are native Australian fruits, small, round berries on both grow in large clusters and ripen to a deep crimson hue, with Lilly Pilly’s also ranging in violet, pink, purple, blue and white.
- Lilly Pilly sauce or chutney is a delightful accompaniment to meats like chicken, pork, or lamb, adding a deliciously tart and fruity flavor to savory dishes.
- The riberry plant is also very popular as a garden ornamental and street tree.
- Riberry also has high levels of folate, otherwise known as vitamin B9.
- The Aboriginal people on the east coast, in the hinterland and rainforest regions relied upon Riberries as a core food source. Adults commonly referred to them as “medicine berries”, they provided essential vitamins and minerals to fight against colds and keep the immune system healthy and strong. The pulp was also used to treat ear infections.
