Dracophyllum, or dragon leaf : evergreen leaves

Dracophyllum, or dragon leaf, is also called grass tree and dragon heather. It is part of the Ericaceae family. This plant is a tree or shrub with evergreen leaves. Some species have juicy, edible fruits. These fruits are important to local people as a food source.

The genus Dracophyllum has many plant types. Most are shrubs, but some are trees. Others are small and cushion-shaped. Snake-leaf stems are usually short and thick. Plants can be tall, medium, low, or very small. Stem height ranges from 0.01 to 14 meters.

Leaves are narrow and long, from 7 to 20 centimeters. They have a sheath-like base. Leaf veins run parallel. Young leaves grow in bunches at branch ends. Leaf surfaces can be leathery. Sometimes, hairs grow along leaf edges.

Flowers are tube-shaped and small. They are white, creamy white, or light yellow. The fruit's pulp is juicy and sweet.

Dracophyllum plants grow in different parts of the world. They are found in eastern Australia and Tasmania. They also grow in New Zealand and its subantarctic islands. New Caledonia and Lord Howe Island have these plants too. Other Oceania islands are also home to Dracophyllum.

These plants often live in mountain forests. Some species grow at sea level too. The plants can be deciduous or evergreen.

Some snake-leaf species are used as garden plants. They are popular in rockeries. These plants add interest to gardens and parks. They create a unique look.

---