Family: Amaranthaceae
Origin, Description & Uses
Enchylaena tomentosa, commonly known as ruby saltbush, is a small shrub native to Australia, where it occurs in dry inland regions and coastal areas. It typically grows as a low, spreading plant with soft gray-green leaves covered in fine hairs and small, fleshy red berries that give the plant its common name. Ruby saltbush is well adapted to harsh conditions such as drought, salty soils, and coastal environments. In its native range, the plant has been used as forage for livestock and wildlife, and the edible berries have been traditionally consumed by Aboriginal Australians. Because of its tolerance to difficult growing conditions, it is sometimes planted for land rehabilitation, erosion control, and as an ornamental in dry or coastal gardens.
Risks & Threats
Ruby saltbush has become naturalized on Maui, meaning it is able to reproduce and maintain populations in the wild without cultivation. However, it is currently considered a low-risk species in Hawaiʻi. While the plant is hardy and capable of spreading in dry or disturbed areas, there is little evidence that it aggressively invades native ecosystems or forms dense stands that displace other vegetation. At present, it has not been associated with significant environmental or agricultural impacts in the islands. Continued awareness and monitoring are still important, as introduced plants can sometimes expand their range over time, but ruby saltbush is not currently regarded as a major invasive threat in Hawaiʻi.
High Risk Traits:
- Naturalized in Hawaii (var. tomentosa)
- Bird-dispersed seeds with gut survival
- Persistent seed bank (>1 year)
- Resprouts after fire/damage (lignotuber)
- Wide soil tolerance (saline, alkaline, sandy, loamy)
- Shade tolerant
- Sold intentionally by seed vendors
Low Risk Traits:
- Not an agricultural or environmental weed
- Palatable to livestock (fodder)
- Non-toxic to animals and humans (edible fruit)
- No spines, thorns, or burrs
- Slow to mature (2-3 years)
- Fire-resistant
