Common names

Long-leaf Waxflower, Native Daphne, Broad-leaf Waxflower.

Scientific names

Philotheca myoporoides subsp. acuta, Eriostemon myoporoides subsp. acutus.

Family

Rutaceae.

Genus

Philotheca.

Name origin

Eriostemon, from Greek erion, wool, and stemon, stamen, referring to hairy stamens. Myoporoides, resembling Myoporum.

Rainfall

900mm.

Growth rate

Moderate.

Growth height

Up to 2m.

Presence in Australia

Noted in the areas Narrandera-Morundah-Galore-Collingullie, and Upper Gilmore. Found in rocky outcrops and mountainous country.

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

Habitat

Hilly areas with sandstone and quartzite. Chiefly in dry sclerophyll forest and heath.

Habit

Shrub to 2m high with densely warty stems and aromatic leaves, 25-40 mm long.

Site preference

Well-drained neutral to acid soils in dappled shade or partial sun. Tolerates frost, extended dry periods, semi-shade and full sun.

Characteristics

Highly aromatic when crushed. Moderate growth rate and longevity.

Flowering

White with pinkish tinge, mainly spring. Star-like.

Seed collection

Jan-Mar. Cut off mature fruiting capsules and dry in warm area to allow seeds to fall out. Seeds are short-lived.

Propagation

From cuttings of firm new growth. May be slow and erratic to root. Bottom heat and overhead misting enhance or hasten rooting. Germination difficult. Seeds require nicking and leaching for 10-14 days before sowing.

Ornamental

Popular in cultivation for shrubberies or mass plantings. Very hardy and adaptable. Light or heavy pruning promotes bushiness and mulching benefits plants. Scale and sooty mould may be a problem.

Other

Cut flowers or foliage.