Microcachrys tetragona

Common Name: Creeping Strawberry Pine

Description:
Microcachrys tetragona, or Creeping Strawberry Pine, is a rare, low-growing, mat-forming conifer native to Tasmania. This unique evergreen shrub features fine, scale-like foliage that turns from bright green to bronze in colder months, adding seasonal interest. In late spring to summer, it produces small, cone-like fruits that resemble tiny strawberries, enhancing its ornamental appeal. Thriving in cool, moist, well-drained soils, this slow-growing species prefers part shade but can tolerate full sun in temperate conditions. It is highly suited to rockeries, alpine gardens, and shaded understory plantings, making it a valuable addition to collectors and native plant enthusiasts.

Form:

• Ground Cover
• Shrub - Small

Mature Size:

• Height: 20–50 cm
• Width: 1–2 m

Aspect:

• Part Shade
• Full Sun (in cooler conditions)

Flowering:

• Does not flower (produces cone-like fruit)

Flower Colour:

• N/A

Key Attributes:

• Australian Native
• Suitable for Ground Cover
• Cold Hardy
• Low Maintenance
• Unique Strawberry-like Fruit

Toxicity:

• Non-toxic to humans
• Non-toxic to pets

Companion Plants:

• Richea pandanifolia (Pandani)
• Tasmannia lanceolata (Mountain Pepper)
• Athrotaxis cupressoides (Pencil Pine)
• Lomatia tinctoria (Guitar Plant)
• Olearia phlogopappa (Daisy Bush)