About Epilobium macropus Hook.
Taxonomic Identification
Epilobium macropus Hook. is a small, mat-forming plant that grows in very wet environments.
Vegetative Morphology
It has small green ovate leaves, and produces white flowers from November to March.
Genus Distinguishing Features
In New Zealand, this Epilobium can be distinguished from most other species in the genus by its orange-brown coma; the only exception is its close relative Epilobium chionanthum.
Relative Identification Traits
To separate Epilobium macropus from Epilobium chionanthum, check for small hairs covering all stems, and opposite leaves across most of the plant, with an alternating leaf arrangement only near the stem tips.
Fruiting Traits
Fruiting pedicels longer than 30 mm are another distinguishing feature of Epilobium macropus.
Habitat Characteristics
This species grows on very wet surfaces, and floats on the water of moving streams in montane and alpine areas.
Distribution Range
It occurs exclusively on both the North and South Islands of New Zealand; in the North Island, it is only found in montane regions.
Ecological Interactions
Ecologically, it is eaten by introduced ungulates (which may include chamois), as well as by brushtail possums.
