Family:	Ericaceae
	Distribution:	High mountains in tropical northern Queensland.
	Common Name:	No generally accepted common name
	Derivation of Name:	Rhododendron...meaning "Rose Tree", a reference to the appearance of some exotic species lochiae...after Lady Loch, the wife of a former Governor of Victoria
	Conservation Status:	Not currently listed as threatened under the EPBC Act*. However, regarded as rare but not facing any current identifiable threat. Classified as 3RC- under the ROTAP * system.

General Description:

For many years Rhododendron lochiae was considered to be Australia's only native Rhododendron. However, recent investigations have indicated that two distinct species may have been lumped together as R.lochiae. The validity of the second species (which occurs in the same geographical area as R.lochiae and which has been named R.notiale) has not yet been fully accepted by the botanical community. These species are members of the Erica family, which has a fairly small representation in Australia.

R.lochiae, itself, is also the subject of uncertain taxonomy. Some authorities have now accepted the name R.viriosum for this species.

R.lochiae is a small shrub which, in nature clings to cliffs by sending roots down into crevices in the rocks. The species has also been described as growing as an epiphyte (ie. on trees).

The species has glossy, oval-shaped leaves about 75mm long. The deep red, bell shaped flowers occur during spring and summer, the exact flowering time depending on the geographical location where the plant is grown. The flowers are about 50mm long by 30mm across and occur in terminal clusters of up to six.

R.lochiae can be grown successfully in a moist, shaded, well drained position in temperate climates but can be difficult to maintain in tropical areas at low altitudes. It is damaged by frost. The species also makes an excellent plant for growing in a container. As it is not especially fast growing, it does not require annual re-potting.

Propagation is relatively easy from cuttings. Like all members of the Ericaceae, R.lochiae forms very fine roots which can be easily damaged on repotting. Striking cuttings in individual small tubes is recommended. Sometimes plants in cultivation will set seed in small pods. The species can be propagated from seed using conventional seed raising methods.

* EPBC Act = Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999;
  ROTAP = Rare or Threatened Australian Plants (Briggs and Leigh, 1988)
  For further information refer the Australian Plants at Risk page