Downy star-bush

Scientific name: Asterolasia phebalioides      

National status (EPBC Act 1999): Vulnerable

South Australian status: (NPW Act 1972): Vulnerable

Description:

Slender shrub to 1.5 m high with densely grey-silvery hairs on branches and leaves. Leaves densely crowded, less than 1 cm long. Solitary, bright yellow, star-shaped flowers along stems. Flowering between September and December.

Distribution:

Endemic to the western end of Kangaroo Island. Grows in open mallee woodland and heath on ironstone and sandy soils.

Specific threats:

Threats to Asterolasia phebalioides include habitat disturbance from road maintenance and fire prevention works, inappropriate fire regimes (too frequent fires), climate change and a highly restricted distribution.