Dracophyllum macranthum

Dracophyllum macranthum has a restricted range in the forests north of Taree, New South Wales. The species is known to be found in the Lansdowne and Comboyne State Forests, and in Coorabakh National Park.^[3][4]

Plants are typically found on rocky outcrops, such as those found in stream gullies, or on roadside cuttings.^[2]

Estimates of the population of Dracophyllum macranthum have ranged widely. One study from 2007 estimated the population to be around 2,500–5,000,^[5] while a 2018 study estimated it to be at least 100,000.^[6]

Threats to Dracophyllum macranthum include invasive weeds such as Lantana camara and Ageratina riparia, as well as road and track maintenance.^[4][5] The pathogen Phytophthora cinnamomi is also thought to be a potential threat, though whether the plant is susceptible is yet to be tested.^[5]

In 2008, the NSW Scientific Committee listed Dracophyllum macranthum as a 'Vulnerable Species' under the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, due to its restricted range and small population.^[5] The species continues to be listed as such under the later Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016, which repealed the former Act.^[7] However, subsequent research has suggested that the population may be large enough to warrant being de-listed from this category.^[6]