Height:
10–20 cm (groundcover layer)
Ecological Functions:
- Living mulch + soil cooling
- Excellent weed suppression
- Protects soil from erosion on slopes
- Pollinator support
- Produces a small edible yield
- Stabilises topsoil and organic matter
Best Placement:
- Under small fruit trees (plum, peach, nectarine, apricot)
- In sunny patches between tree rows
- Along lower-slope areas where moisture collects
- At the front of guild edges
Pairs Best With:
- Plum
- Peach
- Nectarine
- Apricot
- Apple
- Pear
- Feijoa
- Citrus
- Persimmon
Suitability:
Excellent for cool temperate zones; thrives in high rainfall if drainage is good.