Lithomyrtus obtusa, also known as Beach Myrtella, is a very attractive small shrub, native to Queensland. It draws extra attention during the winter months when it is covered in flowers ranging from pale pink to bright magenta (photo below).
Lithomyrtus obtusa (Myrtaceae) occurs naturally along undeveloped parts of the Queensland coast, typically in heathland, open woodland and sandy dunes behind the beaches (photo below). Its range extends from the tip of Cape York to about Bundaberg.
The leaves of Lithomyrtus obtusa have distinctive recurved margins and pale undersides due to a coating of fine matted hairs (photo below).
Lithomyrtus obtusa fruits change from green to brown as they mature (photo below). They were eaten by some Indigenous communities.
Lithomyrtus obtusa could be a delightful garden subject but it is rarely seen in cultivation, probably due to difficulty in propagating it. If you’ve had success with seeds or cuttings of this species, please let us know!