General Description:

Lomatia is a genus of about 12 species, most of which occur in eastern Australia but 3 or 4 are found in South America.

Lomatia tinctoria is a small shrub which may reach 2 metres in height but is often smaller and spreading through suckers. The leaves are up to 800mm long, divided into small leaflets (pinnate) ad are dark green in colour. New growth may have a rusty colour. The cream or white flowers occur in summer in racemes in the leaf axils or at the ends of branches. The flowers are followed by dry fruits containing a number of winged seeds.

This species is not widely cultivated but is a hardy shrub for semi-shaded positions in temperate climates. It will tolerate extended dry periods once established but performs best if adequate moisture is provided. It accepts a range of soils provided drainage is reasonable and will tolerate moderate to severe frost.

The species may be grown from seed which germinates well without pretreatment. Cuttings also strike readily.