Acrothamnus maccraei

Subalpine Beard-heath

Dense spreading shrub with hairy branchlets and bright green new growth.

SynonymLeucopogon maccraei
FamilyEricaceae
StoreyMiddle storey
Size1-3 m x 1-3 m
Plant groupingShrubs 1.5-10 m
LeavesShiny dark green horizontally spreading, egg-shaped to almost triangular leaves, 4-8 mm x 2-4 mm, 3 longitudinal veins on lower side, broad base.
Flower colourWhite
Flowering timeOctober to December
FlowersTerminal and upper axillary spikes to 10 mm long of 2-5 tiny tubular flowers. Shortly bearded inside. Fleshy, roundish bright red fruit.
Bird attractingFruit
Butterfly attractingNo
Frog habitatNo
Growing conditionsWell drained moist rocky slopes, in subalpine forests, usually above 900 m. Frost and snow tolerant. Dappled to semi shade.
Garden useAttractive dense shrub which would be worth trying in a garden or container. Slow growing.
Commercially availableUnlikely to be available within the Shire of Yarra Ranges
Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known from very few local sites but locally common. More common outside the Shire boundary.
Aboriginal Use Food - fruit