Family:	Epacridaceae
	Distribution:	Heath and open forests of coast and adjacent ranges in from southern Victoria to south-east Queensland and Tasmania.
	Common Name:	Blunt-leaf heath
	Derivation of Name:	Epacris....from Greek, epi, upon and acris, a summit, referring to the altitude where some species occur obtusifolia..... From Latin obtusus, blunt and folius, a leaf, referring to the blunt ends of the leaves of this species.
	Conservation Status:	Not considered to be at risk in the wild.

General Description:

The genus Epacris consists of about 40 species of mainly small shrubs. Most are endemic to Australia but a few species can be found in New Zealand and New Caledonia. They occur in a variety of habitats from alpine areas to coastal heaths.

E.obtusifolia is typically an erect shrub up to 100 cm high comprising several long branches. The leaves are small and elliptical with a blunt end (in contrast to other species which are often prickly). They are about 10 mm long by 3 mm wide. The white flowers are tubular, up to 10-14 mm long and occur in a massed display along the branches from the leaf axils. They contain nectar and are frequented by honey-eating birds. Flowering occurs mainly in late winter and spring.

The species is well known in cultivation and is suited to temperate and sub-tropical areas. It prefers a well drained position in semi shade and should not be allowed to dry out. It is also a very attractive plant for a container.

Propagation of E.obtusifolia is usually by cuttings of firm current season's growth. Like most epacrids, the roots are very fine and easily damaged during transplanting. Cuttings are probably best placed into individual small pots or tubes to minimise root disturbance. The species can be grown from seed but this is not readily available.