Phyllanthus gunnii

Shrubby Spurge

A medium shrub with upright branches. Male and female flowers separate, occurring on the same plant.

FamilyPhyllanthaceae (syn. Euphorbiaceae)
StoreyLower storey
Size1-3 m x 0.6-2 m
Plant groupingShrubs to 2m
LeavesRound to elliptic yellow-green to grey-green leaves, paler below, 9-33 mm x 4-20 mm, distinctly veined, tip blunt, often notched. Pair of red-brown leaf-like stipules at the base of leaves, to 4.5 mm long.
Flower colourGreenish-yellow
Flowering timeMainly September to January
FlowersA profusion of tiny flowers with 6 sepals in 2 rings, hanging on stalks to 7 mm long in leaf axils; male flowers in groups of 1-21, female in groups of 1-4. Flattened fruit to 3 mm, becoming reddish.
Bird attractingNo
Butterfly attractingNo
Frog habitatNo
Growing conditionsWell drained soil in sheltered gullies of open forests. Semi shade to dappled shade. Grows densely after fires and other disturbance.
Garden useAn attractive foliage plant which responds well to pruning.
Commercially availableNever
Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Last known collection from a single site in 1924.