Common names

Urn Heath, Honey-gland Heath.

Scientific names

Melichrus urceolatus, Styphelia urceolatus.

Family

Epacridaceae.

Genus

Melichrus.

Rainfall

400mm.

Growth height

0.2-1.5m.

Presence in Australia

Common predominantly east of the Olympic Highway.

This specie has been identified in the following Australian states: Qld, NSW, ACT, Vic.

Habitat

Dry sclerophyll forest, Cypress Pine woodland and wattle scrub on skeletal sandy or loamy soils.

Habit

Upright, stiffly-branched shrub 20-150cm high with prickly leaves and downy branches.

Flowering

Crowded white, cream or yellow-green urn-shaped flowers, Mar-Nov.

Seed collection

Collect fruit when ripe. Wash off or eat fruit pulp and store or sow seed.

Propagation

From cuttings of relatively soft young growth. May be difficult to strike. Very difficult from seed.

Regeneration

Regenerates from a lignotuber.

Wildlife

Good habitat.

Ornamental

Attractive in gardens. Prune moderately.

Other

Edible fruit.