River Lomatia

(Lomatia myricoides)

River Lomatia (Lomatia myricoides)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Lomatia myricoides, commonly known as River Lomatia, is a woody shrub or small tree native to the moist eucalypt forests and rainforest margins of southeastern Australia. It typically reaches 2–5 m (6.6–16.4 ft) in height but can occasionally grow up to 8 m (26 ft). The plant has a bushy habit with dark green, glossy leaves and bears clusters of fragrant flowers in the leaf axils, which are 50–100 mm (2.0–3.9 in) long and usually shorter than the leaves. The flowers, blooming in spring, are predominantly white or cream, with some displaying a pink tinge, and are moderately showy, attracting various pollinators.

River Lomatia is valued for its attractive foliage and flowers, and although not commonly seen in cultivation, it can be a unique addition to gardens, especially in shaded areas or as a feature plant in native plant gardens. It is also suitable for creating informal hedges or screens. This species prefers a semi-shaded position but can tolerate full sun to full shade. It requires medium amounts of water and thrives in soils with slow to medium drainage, ideally rich and loamy. While it is generally low-maintenance, it can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils and may require protection from strong winds due to its somewhat delicate branches.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub, Tree
  • Height: 6.5-17 feet
  • Width: 6-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant

Natural Habitat

Moist eucalypt forests and rainforest margins of southeastern Australia

Other Names

Common Names: Mountain Beech, Long-Leaf Lomatia

Scientific Names: , Lomatia myricoides, Lomatia longifolia, Embothrium longifolium, Embothrium myricoides, Lomatia angustifolia, Lomatia arguta, Lomatia densa, Lomatia fallacina, Lomatia longifolia var. arborescens

GBIF Accepted Name: Lomatia myricoides (C.F.Gaertn.) Domin