Dracophyllum secundum
necklace heath
Overview
Dracophyllum secundum is an evergreen shrub reaching 0.3-1 m (1-3 ft) tall, frequently growing in a pendulous or sprawling form from vertical sandstone faces. The wiry stems carry crowded, narrow, tapering leaves 3-10 cm (1.2-4 in) long that sheath the stem at the base and taper to a slender point, giving a grass-like or cord-like appearance. New growth is pale green, maturing to mid-green, with older leaves developing reddish tints in cold or exposed positions. Small tubular flowers 4-6 mm (0.2-0.25 in) long are arranged along one side of arching spikes, the basis of the name secundum, opening white to pale pink in succession. Flowering occurs mainly in spring, and the fruit is a small dry capsule. Growth is slow, and plants may take several years to reach flowering size. The species occurs as a lithophyte on dripping rock ledges and in sandstone heath in high-rainfall areas. It is restricted to moist, shaded positions and does not withstand dry, exposed sites or disturbance to its specialised root system, which makes it difficult to grow away from its natural habitat.
Native Range
Native to New South Wales, Australia, where it grows on moist sandstone cliffs, ledges, and in heath of the Sydney Basin and Blue Mountains. It favours shaded, high-rainfall sites at low to moderate elevations.Suggested Uses
Grown by native-plant collectors in shaded rockeries and on moist sandstone features where the pendulous habit trails over rock. It is uncommon in general horticulture because of its specific moisture and substrate requirements.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1' - 3'3"
Width/Spread1' - 3'3"
Reaches mature size in approximately 5 years
Bloom Information
Flowers in spring, mainly September to November, with each spike opening its flowers in sequence from base to tip over 3-5 weeks. Flowering is reduced in heavily shaded positions.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
white to pale pinkFoliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 2-5 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight