Lowan phebalium
Lowan phebalium (Phebalium lowanese) is a nationally vulnerable plant endemic to a restricted area in the semi-arid mallee region of southeastern South Australia and adjacent western Victoria. The Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board is working to protect existing clusters and better understand the conditions that will help to preserve this species into the future.
What is lowan phebalium?
Lowan phebalium is a shrub that grows to about 60 cm in height. It produces bright yellow flowers annually between August and October. Its branches are scaly and silver or rust-colored, with linear leaves. The flowers are arranged in clusters of between 1 and 6, with petals around 5 mm long and 2.5 mm wide.
Where is lowan phebalium found?
This species grows in deep, well-drained, and acidic sandy soils, and is found in both open woodland and open shrubland. In the Murraylands and Riverland region lowan phebalium is found in and around Ngarkat Conservation Park.
Why is lowan phebalium under threat?
Land clearance for farming and livestock grazing have historically contributed to population loss. Plants are also susceptible to grazing by rabbits and overabundant native species, including kangaroos.
Like most Australian natives, lowan phebalium is highly adapted to fire, relying on a combination of heat, smoke and water to stimulate germination of seeds. As a fire-dependent species, its population declines if there’s been a long time since a fire, with mass germination events occurring after a wildfire. Lack of fire (or too frequent fire) in the landscape is considered a threat to populations.
What is being done to protect lowan phebalium?
The Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board is working to conserve lowan phebalium in the region, with research work focused on the fire ecology of the species.
A long-term research project by the landscape board saw a significant increase in the number of lowan phebalium plants in Ngarkat Conservation Park after an ecological burn was conducted in 2019.
Developing an understanding of the species' requirements will help future conservation efforts.
How you can help!
Some of the ways in which you can help preserve native plants include:
- Controlling grazing herbivores on your property.
- Taking a photo instead of picking the flower.
- Volunteering with the Murraylands and Riverland region or joining your local native vegetation group.
- Reporting any sighting of these endangered plants to our offices
What should I do if I see lowan phebalium?
If you’re lucky enough to spot lowan phebalium, the most important thing to remember is to not touch or remove it. Take a photo and be discreet about its location in order to protect it from illegal collection.
If you suspect you have a population of lowan phebalium on your property, contact our Ecologist who will help to formally identify the plant. They can also offer support and advice to help conserve and enhance this endangered species so you can play a vital role in native biodiversity.
This project is supported by the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board with funding through the landscape levies.