Hazel Pomaderris, Pomaderris aspera, is a shrub which grows to 4m tall. The leaves vary in size, are pointed at the end, have sunken veins on top and distinctive pale undersides with dusty orange hairs. The leaves are very soft and can be used as bush toilet paper.

Pomaderris leaves are often eaten away, as Butterflies and Moths lay eggs on it and their larvae feed on the leaves. Aboriginal people are believed to have used the wood for making pegs to stretch hide.

Hazel Pomaderris is common in moist forests, especially along streams, and is widespread along the east coast of Australia. The plants photographed here were found alongside the XC mountain bike track at Manna Park, between the Carpentry Centre and the Hostel. Hazel Pomaderris is the shrub in the foreground, with foliage also seen at top-left of picture.

Click on either of the pictures to download a higher resolution image (T.Hastings September 2009)