Cyathodes straminea

Cyathodes straminea is an evergreen shrub in the heath family, Ericaceae. It comes from central and southeastern Tasmania, in Australia. Plants For A Future places it in alpine and sub-alpine habitats. Its leaves stay on the plant throughout the year. Growth is slow. The supplied sources give no mature height or spread. They also give no details of leaf shape or bark.

The flowers have both male and female organs. The evidence gives no bloom season or flower colour. Its fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. Plants For A Future gives it a low food rating. The fruit has an astringent taste, which limits its appeal. That source lists no known hazards. This does not establish safety for pets or every possible use. It records no medicinal uses or other practical uses.

Grow this shrub in partial shade or light, dappled shade. It needs shelter and moist soil that drains well. Plants For A Future recommends lime-free soil rich in humus. Its soil listing includes sand, loam, and clay. It also lists mildly acid and neutral soil as suitable. The need for drainage applies across these soil types. Drought poses a serious risk, so avoid letting roots dry out. A rock garden or lightly shaded woodland edge can suit it.

Mild winters and cool, moist summers suit this plant best. Plants For A Future reports survival to at least 19°F in Australian gardens. That equals about −7°C, but does not establish British hardiness. Britain’s cooler summers and longer, wetter winters can change the outcome. Outdoor growing there may work only in the mildest areas. Elsewhere in Britain, the source suggests a cold greenhouse. Its very fine roots need care during handling and transplanting.

Raising new plants can take patience and close attention. Sow seed on the surface of ericaceous soil in late winter. Keep it exposed to light in a cold frame. Germination may take one or two months, or several years. Scarification and alternating cold and warm periods may shorten the wait. Seedlings can be slow to make roots and need gentle potting. Keep young plants under glass for at least two years. Plant them out in late spring or early summer. Half-ripe cuttings are difficult and unreliable; air layering is another option.