Alpine Baeckia, Mountain heath myrtle
Baeckea gunniana
Family: Myrtaceae
What it is like
A shrub. It often lies along the ground. It can grow 2 m high and spread 50 cm wide. The leaves are narrow and crowded. They are dotted with oil glands and have an aromatic scent when crushed. The leaves are 2-6 mm long and thick. They are dark green. The flowers are small and white. They are 4 mm across. They have 5 petals. Flowers occur near the ends of branches. The fruit is a capsule.
There are 70 Baeckea species. Most are in Australia.
Where it is found
A temperate plant. It occurs in mountain plateaux above 800 m altitude. It does best in light shade. It needs regular watering. It is frost resistant but damaged by drought. It suits hardiness zones 7-8. Arboretum Tasmania.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin), Tasmania (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
Edible parts
Leaves - tea
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings.
Flowering occurs in January to February.