Description
Common names
Mint Bush, Victorian Christmas Bush, Christmas Bush, Mint Tree, Mountain Lilac.
Scientific names
Prostanthera lasianthos.
Family
Lamiaceae.
Genus
Prostanthera.
Name origin
Prostanthera, from Greek prostheke, appendage, and enthera, anther, alluding to spur-like anther appendage. Lasianthos, from Greek lasios, woolly, and anthera, anther, referring to woolly anthers.
Rainfall
800mm+.
Growth rate
Fast.
Growth height
1-6m.
Presence in Australia
Noted in the areas Bowna-Jindera; Yambla and Upper Gilmore. Probably also in similar country in surrounding areas.
This specie has been identified in the following Australian states: Qld, NSW, ACT, Vic, Tas, WA.
Habitat
Rainforest, sclerophyll forest and subalpine woodland, mainly along watercourses and moist gullies.
Habit
Shrub to small tree, usually 1-6m high. Bushy crown of aromatic leaves 4-12cm long.
Site preference
Moist, well-drained soil in shady areas. Tolerates frost.
Characteristics
Fast-growing.
Flowering
White to pale-mauve with purple spots, Nov-Mar.
Seed collection
Early to late Jan. Monitor closely as seeds shed immediately or 1-2 days after maturity.
Propagation
From cuttings of short laterals with heels, Feb to July, or from fresh seed which may give erratic results. Cuttings may be slow to strike. Mist may rot cuttings.
Regeneration
From seed.
Timber
Hard and tough. Saplings used for fishing rods.
Wildlife
Flowers food for native bees and wasps.
Ornamental
Attractive ornamental. Spectacular in flower. Useful screen, although requires protection from strong wind. Benefits from mulching, summer watering and pruning after flowering.