Spearwood, Yellow kunzea
Kunzea ericifolia

Family: Myrtaceae

What it is like

A ground hugging plant. It is an alpine plant. It grows 10-30 cm high and spreads 50-100 cm wide. It can be an erect plant 4 m high. The leaves are crowded and fine. They are grey and have a smell. The flowers are lemon coloured and fluffy. There are some subspecies.

There are about 35 Kunzea species. They grow in Australia.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. It grows in alpine regions. It grows in moist, well drained soils. It can grow in full sun or light shade. It can stand heavy frosts.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin), Tasmania

How it is used for food

Edible parts

Leaves - tea

How it is grown

Plants are grown by cuttings.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Kunzea vestita Schauer; Metrosideros ericifolia Sm.; and others Kunzea muelleri;