Local Distribution: Uncommon, occasional around Oak woodland edges.​

Locations: Teschio Woodland, Calcareous Macchia.

Habitat: Quercus Forest, Arborescent Macchia Calcarea.

Status: Native, IUCN Red List - Least Concern.

Taxonomic Notes: Family - Ericaceae.

Valle Species Action Plan: To be added.

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Ecological Aspects: The flowers provide high levels of nectar & pollen for Bees who act as pollinators. The fruit is food for Birds & Mammals who disperse the seed. Invertebrates may hibernate throughout winter in the tree bark.

 

Ethnobotanical Uses: The fruits may be eaten (best when fresh) and are used in jams, marmalades, yoghurt & to make an alcoholic beverage (common in Corsica, Portugal & Albania). The bitter honey is considered a delicacy. The name Unedo is attributed to Pliny the Elder who allegedly claimed "unum tanto edo", meaning I only eat 1. If many area eaten fresh this can result in a stomach ache.  They are composed of a high sugar content (approx. 40%) and antioxidants - Vitamin C, Beta-Carotene, Niacin, Tocopherols & Organic Acids that are pre-cursors to Omega 3 & 6 Fatty Acids. The leaves are used in folk medicine as a decoction and contain high levels of flavonol antioxidants & have anti-inflammatory  properties. Other reported properties include: astringent, diuretic, urinary anti-septic, used as a tonic & intoxicant, for rheumatism &  more recently hypertension & diabetes. The wood is quite hard & ornamental & used to make items like pipes or for good firewood. Not widely used in construction as it does not grow straight, but can make a good stick. Used in permaculture and ornamentally in gardens & planters. Also in ecological restoration for preventing  desertification as a pioneer plant growing in an array of soils (nutrient poor with variable pH). It is also quite fire-resistant, shooting back well, so is useful in areas where natural fires occur.

Valle Habitat Action Plan: To be added.

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General Notes:

links: Wikipedia. 

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