Phyllanthus hirtellus
Thyme Spurge
Many-branched slender erect perennial shrub with male and female flowers on separate plants. Branchlets rough to hairy.
Additional information
- FamilyPhyllanthaceae (was included in Euphorbiaceae)
- StoreyLower storey
- Size30-50 cm x 20-60 cm
- Plant groupingHerbs & Groundcovers <1m
- LeavesDark green, wedge-shaped, concave leaves 3-11 mm x 1.8-6.5 mm, paler below, margins and veins hairy, tip pointed or notched. Heart-shaped red or black leaf-like stipules at base of leaves.
- Flower colourMale - white to yellow; female - white, yellow or green sepals
- Flowering timeOctober to December
- Flowers2-3 tiny male flowers in leaf axils; 1-2 small female flowers in leaf axils.
- Bird attractingNo
- Butterfly attractingNo
- Frog habitatNo
- Growing conditionsWell drained soil in dry forests. Frost tolerant. Semi shade.
- Garden useSmall understorey shrub with relatively inconspicuous flowers. Prune to increase the life of the plant.
- Commercially availableNever
- Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known from one site on Mt. Dandenong. Common in East Gippsland.
Photo Gallery
Photographer/s: 1, 2 Chris Lindorff, NatureShare ©; 3 Swee Oon ©
Plant Communities