Indicative distribution
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: Prostanthera densa
Profile last updated:
22 Aug 2023
Description
Villous Mintbush is an erect mint-smelling shrub to 2 m tall, though in the southern part of its range it is rarely more than 1 m tall. Branches and leaves are covered with long, spreading hairs. The leaves are in pairs and almost triangular in shape, to 15 mm long and 12 mm wide. They are dark green above and paler below, with curled-under edges. The tubular flowers are mauve with orange markings and grow in the angles where the leaves meet the stems. Flowering has been observed throughout the year, but occurs chiefly in spring or from May - December.
Distribution
This species has been recorded from the Currarong area in Jervis Bay, Royal National Park (Marley), Cronulla, Helensburgh and Port Stephens (Nelson Bay). The Sydney and Royal National Park populations were thought possibly extinct, but the species is now known to occur at Bass and Flinders Point in Cronulla.
Habitat and ecology
- Prostanthera densa generally grows in sclerophyll forest and shrubland on coastal headlands and near coastal ranges, chiefly on sandstone, and rocky slopes near the sea.
- Plants regenerate from rootstock after fire and flower within the first year or two.
Regional distribution and habitat
Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.
Threats
- Prostanthera densa is found within areas likely to be cleared for urban development.
- The root pathogen Phytophthora cinnamomi has affected vegetation near populations and is present in areas where the Prostanthera densa occurred in Royal National Park, and may be a threat to the species.
- This species can probably tolerate fire at reasonably high frequencies, however the optimum fire frequency is unknown.
- The species is susceptible to extinction via stochastic processes due to its small known population size and restricted distribution.
- Destructive activities by recreational users and potentially inappropriate bush regeneration activity that has not considered the species' requirements
- Dumping of garden refuge from adjacent landholders
- Lack of knowledge of full distribution of the species. Prostanthera densa has been seen growing on flanks of volcanic peaks.
- Weed invasion from surrounding properties.
Recovery strategies
A targeted strategy for managing this species has been developed under the Saving Our Species program; click
here
for details. For more information on the Saving Our Species program click
here
Activities to assist this species
- DNA testing to be conducted for P.densa and P.marifolia
- Monitor response to fire (and lack of fire) and adjust fire management accordingly if data suggests an impact.
- Conduct susceptibility trials and monitor populations for the impact of Phytophthora cinnamomi.
- Translocation for Bass and Flinders site
- Translocation for Tomaree National Park
- Searches should be conducted in suitable habitat in proposed development areas.
Information sources
- Fairley, A. and Moore, P. (2000) Native plants of the Sydney district: an identification guide. 2nd Edition. (Kangaroo Press, East Roseville)
- Harden, G.J. (ed.) (1992) Flora of New South Wales Vol. 3. UNSW Press, Kensington, NSW.
- Robinson, L. (2003) Field guide to the native plants of Sydney. 3rd Edition. (Kangaroo Press, East Roseville)