Myrtaceae

sieberi — after F.W. Sieber (1789-1844), botanist from collected extensively in Australia.

Common along major creeks and rivers throughout region.

Qld, NSW, Vic, SA.

Along watercourses, dried and rocky riverbeds and gullies.

Shrub or small tree 2-7 m high. Pinkish new growth and narrow leaves 2-5 cm long.

Moist soils. Tolerates severe seasonal waterlogging and inundation, poor and acidic soils, poor drainage, dry periods, frost, wind and fire.

Fast-growing, hardy and adaptable.

Cream or pale yellow, rarely pink, mostly Nov-Jan.

Dec-Jan, as seeds shed after maturity. Collect from older wood.

From seed (± 300 viable seeds per gram) using the Bog method, or cuttings taken from firm young growth. Cuttings often difficult to strike. Mist and bottom heat may enhance strike rate.

From seed, on sand and gravel banks after floods, and in absence of weed competition. After fire from seed, stem and coppice.

Useful low-level cover in windbreaks.

Useful for stabilising streambanks due to soil-binding fibrous roots. Branches produce roots when in contact with moist soil.

Important stream-side vegetation, for shade and insect source for fish. Flowers are a nectar source for honeyeaters and silvereyes, moths, butterflies and other insects. Foliage good refuge for small birds. Attracts seed-eating birds.

Drink made from nectar.

Useful for screening, hedges, pond edges and bog gardens. Absorbs moisture in boggy sites. Prune severely to prevent straggly growth. Remove old flowerheads to promote flowering and bushiness.

Nectar can be sucked from the flowers.