A small, prickly shrub to 2 m in sandy heaths, open forests and woodlands. Generally in open and drier areas on light soils throughout Australia’s east coast. Phyllodes to 2 cm, dark green, spiny. Very prickly, as the name suggests. Will provide useful small-bird habitat and should be encouraged. Has been used in gardens as a hedge plant. Useful in preventing intrusion by dogs. Flowers are white puff balls in winter and spring. Propagate from scarified seed or boiling water treatment. The name refers to the gorse genus Ulex like foliage. There are seaside variants.
Photo: Robert Whyte
