Pandanis along Ronny Creek, Cradle Mountain National Park.
Pandani (Richea pandanifolia)
Found only in Tasmania, the pandani is the largest heath plant in the world. Although it resembles its near name-sake, the pandanus palms of tropical Australia and South-east Asia, the pandani is in no way related to it. Pandanis are not confined to rainforests, but can also occur in sub-alpine communities. The long, sharp-edged leaves are retained on the trunk to provide insulation. The water that collects in the axils of pandani leaves provides a special habitat for some distinctive invertebrates.
[Excerpt from Parks & Wildlife Service Tasmania]
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