Epacris breviflora

Family:

Epacridaceae

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.