EPACRIDACEAE

South Esk Heath

Vulnerable 

0.6m - 1.0m (60-100cm) 

White, tubular, rather large with short spikes of flowerson main and many lateral branches. 

Capsule 

Much-branched, erect shrub. 

Central Highlands; Georgetown; Latrobe; Launceston; Northern Midlands; West Tamar 

Riparian 

Tas. endemic. Local in north on banks of several rivers including the South Esk. 

Moist 

 

Fertile; Loam; Phosphorous intolerant; Well-drained 

Has had limited cultivation but plants appear to grow well. It requires moist, well drained soil with dappled shade and partial sun.Seed of some species exhibits a dormancy which is reportedly overcome by storage in a dark place for 3- 6 months. If using bog method seed should be spread over surface of propagation mixture . If the medium is then kept constantly moist, germination should occur within 10-20 weeks. Suitable below powerlines. 

When the lower capsule on the stem has opened the capsules higher on the stem are ready for collection. collect open capsules carefully so seeds are not dropped. dry until capsules have opened then lightly thresh 

 

 

 

Difficult to grow from seed. Smoke treatment has been found to significantly improve results for species with smaller seeds. Species with woody fruits and larger seeds are not responsive. The bog method and older seed may improve results.* See gen. notes. 

10-20 weeks 

No 

 

 

No 

Grown from tip cuttings, best taken in March and placed into individual tubes. This avoids problems in the growing on process due to the very fine root systems. Cuttings from cultivated plants or nursery stock can probably be taken at anytime of year, depending on suitable material.