50/70 D007 Australian Flora--Tas

Tasmanian Laurel (Anopterus glandulosus) is a medium-sized evergreen shrub with an average height of about 2-4 meters.

In shaded understorey conditions, its growth habit is often straggly with branches forming layers when growing in shady positions. Compared with the surrounding small-leaf vegetation in Tasmanian forests, Tasmanian Laurel is conspicuous for its broad, dark green leaves clustering chiefly at the ends of its branches. Leaf margins are serrated with blunt tips and a black gland at the apex of each serration.

In late spring or sometimes in autumn, spikes of bell-shaped flowers appear at the branch tips, varying in colors of white and pink. The flowers, which are about as long as the leaves, are borne on slender stalks. Their perfume and nectar attract innumerable insects. Its fruits are like capsules, opening in two valves, which diverge at the top and curl back to expose two very fine, elongated, winged seeds.

It is a slow growing species, which normally takes 5-10 years to mature. But on account of its fabulous flowers and great tolerance to a range of conditions, it is still a worthwhile consideration for gardeners.