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: Micromyrtus blakelyi
Profile last updated:
22 Aug 2023
Description
A low spreading shrub 30 – 60 cm high. Leaves are linear, deeply keeled, 2.5 - 4.5 mm long, c. 1 mm wide. Flowers are pink, stalk-less, solitary in upper axils, forming loose subterminal heads or elongated clusters. Petals are broad-elliptic or obovate, 2 - 3 mm long. Sepals (leaf-like structure at base of flower) 1.5 - 2 mm long, and tinged with pink. Petals, leaves and sepals are fringed with hairs.
Distribution
Restricted to areas near the Hawkesbury River, north of Sydney. Distribution extends from north of Maroota in the north, to Cowan in the south. All known populations occur within the Baulkham Hills and Hornsby local government areas.
Habitat and ecology
- Typically occurs within heathlands in shallow sandy soil in cracks and depressions of sandstone rock platforms.
- Flowers in Spring from September to November and produces fruit (an indehiscent nut) October to November.
- Fire sensitive, with adults killed by fire and recruitment occurring from a soil seed bank. It is not known whether germination occurs in the absence of disturbance.
Regional distribution and habitat
Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.
Threats
- Inappropriate fire regimes, particularly frequent fire.
- Habitat loss due to clearing for rural-residential development.
- Habitat degradation due to inappropriate access or weed invasion.
- Climate change-induced drought.
- There is a potential for the species to be susceptible to myrtle rust infection, which is likely to have significant impacts if confirmed.
- Recreational vehicles, rubbish dumping, bushrock removal.
- Accidental damage from trail maintenance and use.
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
7 priority actions
to help recover the Micromyrtus blakelyi in New South Wales.
Activities to assist this species
- In areas prone to frequent fire, management should be aimed at reducing fire frequency.
- Survey of known populations, and potential habitat, to gain greater insight into the current status of the species, threats to its persistence, and management actions required.
Information sources
- Benson, D. and McDougall, L. (1998) Ecology of Sydney plant species. Part 6 Dicotyledon family Myrtaceae. Cunninghamia 5(4): 808-987.
- Fairley, A. and Moore, P. (2000) Native plants of the Sydney district: an identification guide. 2nd Edition. (Kangaroo Press, East Roseville)
- NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2002) NSW flora fire response database, version 1.3a.
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