Ruby saltbush can be found growing right across the arid and semi-arid climates of Australia, with fruits coming in to season all year round after rain. The berries vary in colour from yellow and orange to red and pink, with fleshy, cylindrical leaves in shades of light green and grey, resembling those of a succulent. The young leaves are also edible, best boiled to reduce their saltiness and used in recipes as you would a vegetable.

The tiny plump berries have a delicious sweet and salty flavour, making them suited to sweet applications in the kitchen. While they are commonly used to make sweetened tea, you can also add ruby saltbush berries to homemade lemonade or your favourite apple crumble recipe, use them to garnish a tart, make a sweet cordial, or try eating them fresh. Ruby saltbush berries are available to purchase from Outback Chef.

Image via The Landy.