Baeckea gunniana

Botanical Name:  Baeckea gunniana
Common Name:  Alpine heathmyrtle
Family:  Myrtaceae
Size:  0.5-1.5 m H (reaches 2 m at lower altitudes) 0.5-2m W.

Leaves: Green/Grey on red stems. Very small (2-5 mm L x 0.6-0.8 mm W) opposite leaves; crowded, oblong to obovate in shape, blunt apex.
Flowers: White, numerous and small (2-5 mm in diameter), 5 petals, red or green centre.  
Flowering Time:  December to April.
Fruit: Woody capsule, turns from green to pale brown when ripe, contains fine brown seed.

Habitat/distribution: Compact shrub.  Generally found in heath and sedgelands in wet rocky sites or bogs above 800 m.  Also ACT, NSW and Vic.
Where to See: Common alpine and subalpine shrub especially in the eastern and central mountains of Tasmania.
Other notes: Appears to maintain a semi-prostrate habit at lower altitudes, making it an ideal rockery plant.  Responds well to regular watering in warmer months and during dry periods.  Prefers full sun or semi shade.  Flowers better in colder climates.  Pruning recommended only when grown in a container or to remove dead foliage. Emits a lemon aroma when crushed.