Nature conservation

Threatened species

Gympie Stinger - profile

Indicative distribution

Key:
known
predicted
The areas shown in pink and/purple are the sub-regions where the species or community is known or predicted to occur. They may not occur thoughout the sub-region but may be restricted to certain areas. ( click here to see geographic restrictions). The information presented in this map is only indicative and may contain errors and omissions.
Scientific name: Dendrocnide moroides
Conservation status in NSW: Endangeredexternal link
Commonwealth status: Not listedexternal link
Profile last updated: 11 Oct 2022

Description

Gympie Stinger is a shrub to 4 m tall in the nettle family. The large, heart-shaped leaves are toothed and densely covered in stinging hairs that cause intense and persistent pain when they contact the skin. Small, insignificant flowers are arranged in bunches. The flower-stalks swell and develop into fleshy purplish fruit-like structures, clustered in a shiny mass. The single seed is contained in a small warty fruit at the end of each flower stalk.

Distribution

From north Queensland, where it is fairly common, south to the Clarence River in north-east NSW. It is very rare in the southern-most part of its range.

Habitat and ecology

  • Occurs in lowland rainforest, especially in gaps or other disturbed sites.

Regional distribution and habitat

Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.
Hide section details

Threats

Recovery strategies

Activities to assist this species

Information sources