The Quandong, also known as quondong is a common name for the Wild Peach species. It grows on a small desert tree up to 4 metres high that has with rough dark bark and pale green elongated hanging leaves.
Quandong trees borrows the root system of other trees, shrubs and grasses to supplement their own supply of nutrients and water. Hence they are usually found growing from the base of another tree. The cream flowers are small and cup shaped, in clusters at the ends of the outer branch-lets. The flowers form in late summer and forms fruit which is ready for harvest in early spring.
The shiny, bright scarlet fruit is about 2cm in diameter and contains one large nut or kernel which is only marginally smaller than the fruit.
Quandongs although somewhat tart are highly nutritious and contains twice the vitamin C of an orange. The kernel is also very nutritious but indigenous Australians tended to use this mainly for medicinal purposes.
There is nothing more scrumptious than Quandong Pie with cream and ice cream, or Quandong Sauce glazed all over Roast Lamb or Pork. Scones with Quandong jam and cream are delightful, or try serving a Quandong and Chilli dipping sauce with spring rolls or chicken wings.