SPECIES: Leptospermum thompsonii — Monga Tea-tree
CLASSIFICATION: Endangered
The Monga Tea-tree is a striking shrub, reaching up to 4 meters tall, with glossy, dark green leaves and beautiful white to pale pink flowers that bloom in spring. Native to the moist, rocky forests of southeastern NSW, this rare plant has a limited distribution, found in just a few isolated locations and plays a crucial role in its ecosystem, providing nectar for pollinators like bees and offering shelter to various native fauna.
Bushfires, habitat disturbance, and climate change are major threats, particularly as the frequency of fires in its habitat increases, making recovery difficult. The plant's vulnerability is heightened by its limited range and small population.
Photo: M Fagg