Zieria Smithii

Sandfly Zieria

Family: Rutaceae

Zierias are recognised by their sets of 3 leaves opposite each other on the stem, and the 4 petals and 4 stamens. Zieria smithii is an erect plant growing up to 2 m. The oil in the leaves gives out a strong smell when crushed, and makes a good insect repellant. The plant grows in sheltered places in all types of forests.

The soft hairless ovate leaves of Zieria smithii are 3 - 5 cm long, 4 -10 mm wide, with raised translucent oil glands.

Flowers are mainly white, sometimes pale pink, about 8 mm wide, on stalks coming from the leaf axils.

Zieria smithii flowers from August to October.