Leptospermum scoparium var. incanum

Leptospermum scoparium var. incanum

Key Features

  • Small, erect prickly shrub or small tree with flaky bark, and bearing masses of oval pointed leaves.
  • Silky hairy new growth on leaves and stems.
  • Leaves rigid, 10-15 mm long by 1-2 mm wide.
  • Flowers dark pink or pink flushed and up to 20 mm wide.
  • Fruit a large (7-8 mm wide), dry capsule which scarcely opens except after fire or the death of the plant.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Abundant on the upper Northland Peninsula from Te Paki to Ahipara, and down the eastern coastline to Whangaroa. Locally present south of this, with an uncertain southern distributional limit.
  • Abundant in coastal dunefield, associated shrublands, gumland, and on the margins of peatbogs.

Threats

  • Clearance for farmland.
  • Felling for firewood.
  • Myrtle rust (Austropuccinia psidii) may pose the greatest threat.

Management Opportunities

  • Survey for new locations.
  • Mark known sites.
  • Protect habitat.
  • Collect seed, propagate, and reintroduce to appropriate sites.
  • Ensure that forest owners are aware of potential habitats and can recognise the species.

Monitoring Options

  • Check existing populations annually.
  • Report new locations to DOC.

References