Microseris lanceolata is a perennial herb is one of three plants known as murnong or yam daisy along with Microseris scapigera and Microseris walteri
It is found in many forms in southern and eastern Australia
A variable species, it has the form of a tufted rosette of toothed lanceolate leaves The flower is a yellow head of florets, reminiscent of a dandelion
This species of Murnong was the main staple food for the Wurundjeri Aboriginals until the mid 1840s, when the introduction of sheep rendered the yam virtually extinct Though they re rare in the wild, you may still spot them growing in bushlands in Victoria, NSW and the ACT
Tubers start forming in mid summer beneath clumps of dandelion like flowers When the plant flowers in Autumn, the tuber roots are ready for harvest
The plant is quick growing, and likes full sun to part shade Will do well in most soil types, and is drought and frost tolerant, but good care will ensure better growth
Bush food : Murnong was prepared by roasting or pit baking; the taste is described as sweet with a flavour of coconut
May be eaten raw or baked, in salads, mixed with other vegetables, or turned into a paste for desserts The slightly bitter leaves are also edible
Germination: Sow in autumn to early winter, as hot weather limits germination, and sow on the soil surface, a small sprinkle of sand or seed raising mix over the top of the seed will help it not be blown away Germinates in a couple of weeks
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