Description
Common names
Common Fringe-myrtle, Fringe-myrtle, White Fringe-myrtle, Fringe Myrtle, Grampians Fringe-myrtle, Heath Myrtle, White Fringe Myrtle.
Scientific names
Calytrix tetragona.
Family
Myrtaceae.
Genus
Calytrix.
Name origin
Calytrix, from Greek kalyx, cup and thrix, hair, referring to divisions of calyx ending in long bristly hairs. Tetragona, from Greek tetra, four, and gonia, angle, referring to leaves (when dried).
Rainfall
400mm.
Growth rate
Moderate.
Growth height
0.5-2m.
Presence in Australia
In most areas across region on rises and hills.
This specie has been identified in the following Australian states: Qld, NSW, ACT, Vic, Tas, SA, WA.
Habitat
Heath, woodland and dry sclerophyll forest on skeletal and sandy soils.
Habit
Bushy shrub 50cm to 2m high. Small aromatic green leaves 1-12 mm long and soft dark bark.
Site preference
Well-drained soils in full sun or semi-shade. Tolerates periodic inundation, frost and extended dry periods.
Characteristics
Moderate growth-rate and longevity. Flammable. Highly variable in flower, leaf and habit.
Flowering
White to pink, all year but chiefly spring.
Seed collection
Late Sep to mid-Mar, when capsules turn bronze and begin to fall.
Propagation
From cuttings 4-5cm long, taken about 3 months after flowering from young growth low down on plant. Use well-drained and aerated mix. Strike in open shade with low humidity rather than on hot bed. Unreliable from seed.
Regeneration
From seed after light fires or when soil is bare.
Shade and shelter
Useful low-level cover in windbreaks.
Land protection
Colonises bare sites.
Wildlife
Flowers are a food source for moths, butterflies and other insects. Foliage good refuge for small birds.
Ornamental
Excellent in parks, gardens, containers, and for screens and rockeries. Particularly attractive when flowering prolifically. Prune lightly after flowering to encourage flowering and promote bushiness. Avoid planting too close to house in fire-prone areas.