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: Tasmannia purpurascens
Gazetted date:
27 Feb 2026
Profile last updated:
02 Mar 2026
Description
Broad-leaved Pepperbush is a medium to tall shrub with purplish buds and stems. The leathery leaves are aromatic, broad and waxy, 8 - 18 cm long and 3 - 5 cm wide. Male and female flowers are borne on different plants and are followed by oblong purple-black fruits, 10 - 15 mm long, on the female plants.
Distribution
Restricted to Barrington Tops, Gloucester Tops and Ben Halls Gap in NSW.
Habitat and ecology
- Broad-leaved Pepperbush grows in tall, moist eucalypt forest, sub-alpine woodland and cool temperate rainforest.
Regional distribution and habitat
Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.
Threats
- Invasion of introduced weeds, particularly Scotch Broom (Cytisus scoparius) and blackberry.
- Disturbance of habitat by feral pigs.
- Logging operations.
- Road construction and maintenance.
- Clearing of habitat.
- Highly susceptible to infection by the root pathogen Phytophthora cinnamomi, which may threaten the local persistence of the species. Phytophthora is present in the Barrington Tops area.
- Feral horses disperse weeds and diseases (like Phytophthora), leave manure piles, browse, and trample on plants.
- Hybridisation between T. stipitata and T. purpurascens
Recovery strategies
Priority actions are the specific, practical things that must be done to recover a threatened species, population or ecological
community. The Office of Environment and Heritage has identified
0 priority actions
to help recover the Broad-leaved Pepperbush in New South Wales.
Activities to assist this species
- Stay on established walking tracks when visiting national parks.
- Observe hygiene protocols and track closure signs in national parks.
- Assist with the control of feral pigs.
- Limit the importation of soil to sites supporting this species.
- Assist with the control and removal of English Broom.
- Help protect habitat areas from logging, road construction and clearing.
- Notify the DEC of any new occurrences of Broad-leaved Pepperbush.
Information sources
- NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2002) Threatened Species of the Lower North Coast of New South Wales. (NSW NPWS, Hurstville)
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