The Temperate Database is in the process of being updated, with new records being added and old ones being checked and brought up to date where necessary. This record has not yet been checked and updated.

Common Name: Sugar Wood

General Information

Myoporum platycarpum is a Evergreen Shrub
It is harvested from the wild for local use as a food, medicine and source of materials.

Known Hazards

Although no records of toxicity have been found for this species, the fruits of at least some members of this genus are known to contain liver toxins and can be harmful in large quantities[].

Botanical References

Range

Australia - New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, Western Australia.

Habitat

Dry areas[] on loamy and clayey soils[]. Usually found in poor limey soils[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Medicinal Rating
Habit	Evergreen Shrub
Height	0.00 m
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus.
Easily grown in most soils[]. Succeeds in dry soils[].

Edible Uses

Fruit - raw or cooked[, ]. Caution is advised, see the notes above on possible toxicity.
A sweet manna exudes from the stems[, , , ]. It is a popular local delicacy[, ]. The manna cannot be induced to flow by wounding the stem[].

Medicinal

Laxative[].

Other Uses

The manna obtained from the stems can be used as an adhesive cement[].
The plant yields a resin[, ]. No more details are given, though these reports could be referring to the manna.
Wood - perfumed. Used for veneers and cabinet making, it is a sandalwood substitute[, , ].

Propagation

Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Consider giving the plants some protection from the cold for their first few winters outdoors.
Cuttings of half-ripe wood, 5 - 10cm with a heel, mid summer in a frame. Pot up in the autumn. Good percentage[].