Scientific Name: Epacris exserta Endemic Having a natural distribution confined to a particular geographic region

Common Name: south esk heath

Family Classification (Clade): Eudicots

Family: Ericaceae

Threatened Species Status: Endangered

Permit: It is an offence to collect, disturb, damage or destroy this species unless under permit.

Form Description: Much-branched, erect shrub.

Height (m): 0.6 – 1

Flowers: White, tubular, rather large with short spikes of flowers on main and many lateral branches.

Fruit: Capsule

Municipality
Central HighlandsGeorge TownLatrobeLauncestonNorthern MidlandsWest Tamar
Plant Communities
Riparian
Habitat Notes

Local in north on banks of several rivers including the South Esk.

Site Tolerance

Moist

Soil Tolerance

Fertile, Loam, Well-drained

General Notes

Has had limited cultivation but plants appear to grow well. It requires moist, well drained soil with dappled shade and partial sun. Bird attracting.

Propagation Calendar

  • Flowering Month
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
  • Seed Collecting Month
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
  • Sowing Month
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
  • Cutting Month
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Propagation Method
Cuttings

Seed Information

Seed Collection

Difficult to grow from seed. When the lower capsule on the stem has opened the capsules higher on the stem are ready for collection. Collect open capsules carefully so seeds are not dropped. Dry until capsules have opened then lightly thresh.

Seed Treatment Notes

Smoke treatment has been found to significantly improve results for species with smaller seeds. Species with woody fruits and larger seeds are not responsive. Seed of some species exhibits a dormancy which is reportedly overcome by storage in a dark place for 3- 6 months. The bog method and older seed may improve results. If using bog method seed should be spread over surface of propagation mixture. If the medium is then kept constantly moist, germination should occur within 10-20 weeks.

Germination Time

10-20 weeks

Cutting & Division Information

Grown from tip cuttings, best taken in March and placed into individual tubes. This avoids problems in the growing on process due to the very fine root systems. Cuttings from cultivated plants or nursery stock can probably be taken at anytime of year, depending on suitable material.