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.
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click here to see geographic restrictions).
The information presented in this map is only indicative and may contain errors and omissions.
Scientific name: Leucopogon exolasius
Profile last updated:
18 Mar 2024
Description
Woronora Beard-heath is an erect shrub that grows to a metre tall and has hairy branchlets. Its sharp-pointed leaves grow to about 15 mm long by 2.5 mm wide and have a convex upper surface and striated lower surface. Up to three drooping, white, tubular flowers grow in the angles where the leaves meet the stems, on stalks to 5 mm long. Like most beard-heaths they have furry throats, but also have tiny hairs on the outside of the tube. The common and similar Leucopogon setiger has longer flower stalks, a smooth outer surface to the flower tube and shorter, wider leaves.
Distribution
Woronora Beard-heath is found along the upper Georges River area and in Heathcote National Park.
Habitat and ecology
- The plant occurs in woodland on sandstone.
- Flowering occurs in August and September.
Regional distribution and habitat
Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.
Threats
- Inappropriate fire regime. The species is an obligate seeder, is killed by fire, and is slow to reach maturity. Fire management should ensure:
1) frequency of >15 year interval with occasional longer periods;
2) season is preferably late spring and not winter;
3) severity from medium to high. There is no heat requirement for germination but fire will create gaps in vegetation and reduce competition for new seedlings.
- The species is secure from habitat loss, but the small range and population size makes it vulnerable to local extinction.
- Distibution and abundance of individual populations unknown
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
9 priority actions
to help recover the Woronora Beard-heath in New South Wales.
Activities to assist this species
- Monitor the population for changes.
- Fire Management should ensure: Frequency - > 15 year interval with occasional longer periods. Season - Not winter, preferably late spring. Severity - Medium to high, no heat requirement for germination but will create gaps and reduce competition for new seedlings.
- Search likely habitat for other populations.
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.
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