Family:
Epacridaceae
Epacris breviflora
Drumstick Heath
Other Names:
First Nations Name(s):
Name Origin:
Epacris — from Greek epi, upon, and acris, a hilltop, referring to preferred location of many Epacris.
breviflora — from Latin brevis, short, and flora, flower, referring to flowers.
Regional Subspecies:
Occurrence:
Regional:
Noted in the districts of Munderoo and Bringenbrong-Khancoban.
Australia:
Qld, NSW, Vic.
Habitat:
Swamps and damp places at 350-1500 m altitude.
Habit:
Erect shrub, 50-100 cm high and sometimes 2 m. Hairy branchlets and erect leaves.
Site Preference:
Moist, well-drained light to medium, fertile soil. Tolerates frost.
Flowering:
White, mostly summer, and sporadically. Conspicuous and fragrant.
Seed Collection:
Collect seed-bearing capsules when flowers wither. Dry flower-heads in paper bag and sieve dust-like seed to extract.
Propagation:
From cuttings of firm young growth (although may be difficult to strike). The bog method and/or smoke treatment may enhance germination. Sprinkle fine seeds over acid potting mix in late spring, and place under mist.
VALUES:
Land Protection:
Stabilises soils in damp areas.
Ornamental:
Excellent in containers and rockeries. Prune regularly to maintain bushiness.