Prostanthera cuneata

The evergreen Prostanthera cuneatea is not enjoying the heavy rain and lately the frosts we are experiencing this winter. A native of the Southern Hemisphere it is dropping shoals of the small, evergreen leaves that cover its shoots. These are distinctly aromatic releasing a menthol odour. Once the shoots are seen under magnification the leaf surface is seen to be covered with minute oil glands, from which the scent emanates. On casual observation the plant looks like any woody shrub but magnified there is a resemblance to the fleshy structure seen in Kalanchoe. Thanks to Frieda Christie for the microscope images. Otherwise a healthy plant, to be seen in the NE corner of the QMMG, this stunted woody shrub is suited to a warm, dry aspect with free draining soil. Recognised as endangered in its native SE Australia.

Prostanthera cuneata

Prostanthera cuneata