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: Lenwebbia sp. Main Range
Gazetted date:
30 Oct 2020
Profile last updated:
23 Feb 2024
Description
Small tree to 4m, branchlets densely covered in short, ascending fawn hairs. Leaves with lamina elliptical to obovate, usually 3-5cm long and 10-25mm wide; secondary venation obscure. Leaves sparingly hairy above with appressed hairs, glabrescent below except on the midvein; apex acute; petiole 3-5.5mm long. Flowers axillary, solitary; pedicels 6-7mm long. Hypanthium sparingly hairy. Sepals triangular, obtuse, to 2mm long. Mature fruits black. The species can be distinguished from co-occurring L. prominens by the lower surface of the leaves being hairless except for the midvein and the far less prominent lateral veins on the underside of the leaf.
Distribution
High altitude areas (900m-1200m asl) on, or close to, the NSW-Qld border. The species occurs on the volcanic escarpments between Wilson's Peak and Mt Cordeaux, north of Cunningham's Gap in the Main Range NP in south-east Qld (approx. 50km east of Warwick), and along the border between Limpinwood NR (NSW) and Lamington NP (Qld) on and around Mt Wagawn in suitable habitats on the escarpment to Echo Point.
Habitat and ecology
- Narrow-ranged endemic which occurs in high altitude vegetation on rocky outcrops along exposed escarpment clifflines and on the wet cliffs or steep slopes immediately below. The substrate is typically skeletal peaty deposits on volcanics (either basalt or rhyolite), with most sites being on south facing, exposed aspects.
Regional distribution and habitat
Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.
Threats
- The species is severely threatened by infection from Myrtle rust.
- Decline in health/loss of mature plants and a lack of seed-based recruitment due to infection by Myrtle Rust.
- Individual plants in the Limpinwood Nature Reserve – Lamington National Park population are threatened by trampling from park visitors.
- Degradation of habitat and competition from weeds.
- Road and track development and maintenance.
- Fire destroying habitat and individual plants.
- Climate change has the potential to cause change to the very restricted damp environments the plant relies on.
- The observed number of individuals across the known range in NSW is approximately 20-30 plants.
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
- Collect cuttings as many living individuals as possible in order to establish an ex situ poulation.
- Survey in potential habitat areas in NSW to establish the total population size and distribution. Mark and map all individuals. Record size/age classes, evidence of reproduction/recruitment. Monitor for weed or competitive native plants (e.g. vines).
- Monitor all populations in order to record the extent and severity of the impacts of Myrtle Rust.
- If adequate ex situ material is propagated, undertake investigation into measures to treat Myrtle Rust, for example, stem injection of fungicide.
- Ensure individuals or habitat is not damaged by recreational users due to trampling. Install signage or barriers where appropriate.
- Consult with NPWS staff to inform them about the species and its associated threats.
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