Gaultheria hispida

Gaultheria hispida is a small, erect multi-branched shrub, in the family Ericaceae. G. hispida can grow up to 2 m (6 ft 7 in) in a protected site, such as a forest, but will be smaller in more exposed alpine sites. Its leaves grow to be 4–9 cm (1.6–3.5 in) long and appear dark green and glossy, with depressed veins and finely serrated leaf margins, tinged copper.[1][2] Stems are usually red with terminal clusters of small white, urn-shaped flowers at its apex. Flowering Spring through Summer followed by distinctive snowy white sepals enclosing a reddish capsules or "fruit" in Autumn.[1]

It is considered to be highly representative of the family Ericaceae for its phylogenetic significance.[3]

G.hispida, in flower. Photo courtesy of Rb Wiltshire

G. hispida can be easily propagated from cuttings or seed, making it a favourable garden plant. They are best suited to a constantly moist, well-drained site, with loamy and or fertile soils.[1][4]

G.hispida, characteristic fruit and leaves. Photo courtesy of Rb Wiltshire.

The genus Gaultheria is found across Australia, New Zealand, Asia and North and South America. The species “hispida” is found exclusively in Tasmania and some parts of Victoria.[1][5] The species is considered endangered within Victoria, and of conservation significance in Tasmania, but is neither threatened or uncommon.[6][3] G. hispida is most abundant in cool, moist, mountain or alpine areas, between 250 -1100m.[1]

Alpine vegetation in Cradle Mountain National park, where G. hispida is found.

Map of distribution for G.hispida, in Tasmania, Australia. Generated by Tasmanian Natural Values Atlas.

Its distribution is most abundant in the western side of Tasmania, (to the west of Tylers line), on ancient fold province soils, where wet forests and alpine vegetation dominate. Other patches of distribution, to the east of Tyler's line, are predominantly alpine areas, in the north east, south east and central north, on younger fault province soils.[3]

Tasmania's unique geological history of repeated glaciation has enabled many species to expand their geographic range. This glaciation caused the contraction and expansions of alpine zones, thereby dispersing species beyond their initial alpine habitats. Many species then continued to persist in these areas, as is the case with G. hispida.[7]

Other suitable habitats for G. hispida in Tasmania include: rainforest, wet eucalypt forest and montane vegetation.[4]

The fruit of G. hispida are edible, with a bitter taste and were commonly collected by Tasmanian Aboriginal People as bushfood, and were eaten by early settlers.[8] Other members of the genus Gaultheria have been used to make teas and jellies, and even claimed to have natural anti-inflammatory properties.[9]

• Variation of Tasmanian vegetation from East to West