The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area

Part B: Vegetation Community Profiles

Central Conservation Programs and Planning Division NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service August 2003

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area

Part B: Vegetation Community Profiles

August 2003

Published by: guaranteed to be free from error or NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service omission. NPWS and its employees 59-61 Goulburn Street, Sydney, NSW disclaim liability for any act done on the 2000 information in the map and any PO Box A290, Sydney South, NSW 1232 consequences of such acts or omissions. Report pollution and environmental This report should be referenced as incidents follows: Environment Line: 131 555 (NSW only) or [email protected] NPWS (2003) The Native Vegetation of See also the Warragamba Special Area. NSW www.environment.nsw.gov.au/pollution National Parks and Wildlife Service, Phone: (02) 9995 5000 (switchboard) Sydney. Phone: 131 555 (environment information and publications requests) Phone: 1300 361 967 (national parks, Acknowledgements Thank you to the following people who climate change and energy efficiency information and publications requests) kindly provided comments on the draft Fax: (02) 9995 5999 reports and maps: Chris Chafer (SCA), Doug Benson (Royal Botanic Gardens, TTY: (02) 9211 4723 Email: [email protected] Sydney), Stephen Bell, Roger Lembit, Website: www.environment.nsw.gov.au David Thomas, Mark Tozer (NPWS) and David Keith (NPWS).

ISBN 0731367944 Thank you to Sydney Catchment Authority NPWS Publishing No. NPWS 2003/0141 staff, especially Loretta Gallen, Brian August 2003 Waldron, Dennis Ashton, and Glen Capararo for providing ongoing logistical © Copyright National Parks and Wildlife support, field assistance and knowledge of Service on behalf of State of NSW. the catchment. Photographs are copyright National Parks and Wildlife Service or the individual Thank you to private property owners who photographer. provided access to their properties for field survey. With the exception of photographs, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and Thank you to Danielle Doughty and Linda State of NSW are pleased to allow this Henderson of the Department of Land and material to be reproduced in whole or in Water Conservation for sharing their part for educational and non-commercial knowledge of soils in the Special Area. use, provided the meaning is unchanged and its source, publisher and authorship are acknowledged. Specific permission is required for the reproduction of photographs.

National Parks and Wildlife Service has compiled The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area in good faith, exercising all due care and attention. National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) does not accept responsibility for any inaccurate or incomplete information supplied by third parties. No representation is made about the accuracy, completeness or suitability of the information in this publication for any particular purpose. NPWS shall not be liable for any damage which may occur to any person or organisation taking action or not on the basis of this publication. Readers should seek appropriate advice when applying the information to their specific needs. Map data is not

Contents

INTRODUCTION...... 1 HOW TO USE THE VEGETATION COMMUNITY PROFILES...... 2 MU1 SANDSTONE WARM TEMPERATE RAINFOREST ...... 4 MU1 SANDSTONE WARM TEMPERATE RAINFOREST ...... 5 MU2 MONTANE COOL-WARM TEMPERATE RAINFOREST...... 8 MU3 GREY MYRTLE DRY RAINFOREST...... 11 MU4 KOWMUNG DRY RAINFOREST...... 14 MU5 HIGHLANDS BASALT ACACIA SCRUB...... 17 MU6 SANDSTONE RIPARIAN SCRUB...... 20 MU7 MONTANE GULLY BROWN BARREL FOREST ...... 23 MU8 SANDSTONE MOIST BLUE GUM FOREST ...... 26 MU9 SHELTERED SANDSTONE INTERMEDIATE BLUE GUM FOREST...... 29 MU10 SHELTERED SANDSTONE SMOOTH-BARKED APPLE FOREST...... 32 MU11 SHELTERED SANDSTONE BLUE-LEAVED STRINGYBARK FOREST ...... 35 MU12 ESCARPMENT MOUNTAIN GREY GUM FOREST...... 38 MU13 SHELTERED ESCARPMENT BLUE GUM FOREST...... 41 MU14 ESCARPMENT GREY GUM FOREST ...... 44 MU15 HIGHLANDS GORGE RIVER PEPPERMINT FOREST ...... 47 MU16 BINDOOK HIGHLANDS OPEN FOREST...... 50 MU17 YERRANDERIE WHITE-TOPPED BOX FOREST...... 53 MU18 SHELTERED PORPHYRY FOREST ...... 56 MU19 WANGANDERRY TALL OPEN FOREST...... 60 MU20 MONTANE SHELTERED NARROW-LEAVED PEPPERMINT FOREST...... 63 MU21 KANANGRA GORGE SHELTERED GREY GUM FOREST...... 66 MU22 OAKDALE BLACKBUTT GULLY FOREST ...... 70 MU23 BURRAGORANG RIVER FLAT FOREST...... 73 MU24 HIGHLANDS SANDSTONE DRY SHRUB FOREST ...... 76 MU25 BLUE MOUNTAINS SANDSTONE DRY SHRUB FOREST ...... 79 MU26 NATTAI SANDSTONE DRY SHRUB FOREST ...... 82 MU27 BURRAGORANG SANDSTONE DRY SHRUB FOREST...... 85 MU28 KOWMUNG SHELTERED RED GUM FOREST ...... 88 MU29 EXPOSED DEVONIAN GREY GUM FOREST...... 92 MU30 WINGECARRIBEE SLOPES STRINGYBARK FOREST ...... 95 MU31 HIGHLANDS SLOPES GREY GUM-STRINGYBARK FOREST...... 98 MU32 PERMIAN FOOTSLOPES GRASSY GREY BOX FOREST...... 101 MU33 TONALLI ESCARPMENT DRY SHRUB FOREST...... 104 MU34 MONTANE SANDSTONE SILVERTOP ASH SHRUB FOREST ...... 107

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles i MU35 MONTANE EXPOSED SILVERTOP ASH FOREST...... 110 MU36 MONTANE SLOPES STRINGYBARK FOREST...... 113 MU37 MONTANE SANDSTONE DRY SHRUB FOREST...... 116 MU38 OAKDALE ALLUVIAL ROUGH-BARKED APPLE FOREST...... 119 MU39 TABLELANDS RIVER OAK FOREST ...... 122 MU40 EXPOSED BLUE MOUNTAINS SANDSTONE WOODLAND ...... 125 MU41 EXPOSED BURRAGORANG SANDSTONE SHRUB WOODLAND ...... 128 MU42 ROCKY SANDSTONE HEATH WOODLAND ...... 131 MU43 TABLELANDS EXPOSED SILVERTOP ASH-BRITTLE GUM WOODLAND ..... 134 MU44 TABLELANDS BLACK SALLY WOODLAND...... 137 MU45 TABLELANDS SNOW GUM WOODLAND ...... 140 MU46 KANANGRA GORGE NARROW-LEAVED IRONBARK WOODLAND ...... 142 MU47 EXPOSED PERMIAN SANDSTONE WOODLAND...... 145 MU48 ESCARPMENT SLOPES DRY IRONBARK WOODLAND ...... 148 MU49 DRY ALLUVIAL PAPERBARK WOODLAND...... 151 MU50 DOUGLAS SCARP WOODLAND...... 154 MU51 DEVONIAN RED GUM-YELLOW BOX WOODLAND ...... 157 MU52 DEVONIAN RED GUM-IRONBARK WOODLAND...... 160 MU53 DEVONIAN RED GUM-GREY BOX WOODLAND...... 163 MU54 HIGHLANDS DRY SCRIBBLY GUM WOODLAND...... 167 MU55 HIGHLANDS TRANSITIONAL SHALE WOODLAND ...... 169 MU56 CUMBERLAND PLAIN SHALE SANDSTONE TRANSITION FOREST (LOW SANDSTONE INFLUENCE) ...... 172 MU57 CUMBERLAND PLAIN SHALE SANDSTONE TRANSITION FOREST (HIGH SANDSTONE INFLUENCE) ...... 175 MU58 CUMBERLAND PLAIN ALLUVIAL WOODLAND...... 179 MU59 CUMBERLAND PLAIN SHALE HILLS WOODLAND...... 182 MU60 CUMBERLAND PLAIN SHALE PLAINS WOODLAND...... 185 MU61 ROCK PLATE HEATH-MALLEE ...... 188 MU62 MONTANE HEATH-MALLEE ...... 191 MU63 LOOMBAH HEATH-MALLEE ...... 194 MU64 ROSY PAPERBARK HEATH...... 197 MU65 FRINGED MYRTLE HEATH...... 199 MU66 WOMBEYAN LIMESTONE SCRUB...... 201 MU67 KOWMUNG ACACIA SCRUB...... 204 MU68 HIGHLANDS PEAT SWAMP...... 206 MU69 HIGHLANDS SWAMP GUM-TEA-TREE HEATH-WOODLAND ...... 209 MU70 MONTANE SEDGELAND-HEATH...... 212 MU71 UPLAND SWAMPS: CYPEROID HEATH ...... 215 MU72 UPLAND SWAMPS: TEA-TREE THICKET...... 218

ii The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles MU73 SANDSTONE BRITTLE GUM SWAMP WOODLAND...... 221 MU74 THIRLMERE SAND SWAMP WOODLAND ...... 223 MU75 LEPIRONIA FRESHWATER WETLAND...... 226 MU76 RIVER FRINGE REEDLAND...... 228 MU77 BINDOOK HIGHLANDS GRASSLAND ...... 230 DISTURBED LANDSCAPES ...... 232 REFERENCES ...... 233

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles iii

Introduction The interepretation of vegetation communities as set out in this document requires an understanding of the methods of data capture and classification used to produce them. Please refer to Part A: Technical Report of The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Section 4.6, Field Identification of Vegetation Communities is particularly relevant to the understanding and use of Diagnostic Species lists.

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 1 How to use the Vegetation Community Profiles The following provides a summary explanation of the vegetation community profiles presented in this report.

This number lets you know the number of field samples that This number provides the mean number have been used to classify the of native species recorded from each of community the sites used to classify the community MUXX Vegetation Community Name Number of Sites: 6 No. taxa/plot: 48.5

 DESCRIPTION This section summarises the abundant and frequently occurring plant species found in the community based on sample site data. The description provides a overview of the environmental characteristics of the community, in particular soil or geology type, elevation gradients and/or climatic features and spatial distribution within the special area. It also informs the reader of the A photo from one of the sample sites is community’s conservation status under the NSW presented here as a means to illustrate Threatened Species Conservation Act (1995) and the structural characteristics of the known occurrence outside of the Special Area. community

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: This section provides summary scores for upper heights (in metres) for the upper strata of the vegetation community. It also provides an estimation of the total projected canopy cover for this stratum. A standard deviation score is provided for this cover estimate. All values are generated from field site data. The dominant tree species are listed here. Example Species: Eucalyptus elata, Eucalyptus muelleriana, Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata, Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Eucalyptus fastigata, Eucalyptus punctata Minor associates: Other tree species that have been recorded in this community have been listed here. Shrubs: Upper Height 3m Projected Canopy Cover 15% Example Species: Hibbertia aspera subsp. aspera, Leucopogon juniperinus, Persoonia linearis, Pittosporum revolutum, Zieria smithii, Dodonaea triquetra Ground covers: Upper Height 0.5m, Projected Canopy Cover 65% Example Species: Microlaena stipoides, Tylophora barbata, Lagenifera stipitata, Stypandra glauca, Pratia purpurascens, Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides, Entolasia marginata, Entolasia stricta, Glycine microphylla, Adiantum aethiopicum, Desmodium varians, Dianella caerulea, Hydrocotyle peduncularis, Opercularia diphylla, Viola hederacea, Lomandra longifolia, Echinopogon caespitosus var. caespitosus

2 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  This section describes prominent (and conspicuous) plant species found in the community using common names. It also describes the important environmental factors that are associated with this vegetation community.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS

Example locations of each community are from within the Special Area are presented here. For some communities a number of examples are given that lie outside the Special Area but are considered more accessible.

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT

RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion This provides (ha) (%) a breakdown Bargo SCA 0 0 of the Blue Mountains NP 110. 10. Burragorang SCA 541. 50. distribution of Joadja NR 0 0 each Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 community Nattai NP 0.05 0.0 This provides within NPWS Total Reserved 652.16 61.3 an overview reserves Total Unreserved 411.37 38.7 of the known within the Total Area within Warragamba 1063.53 100 extent of the Special Area Special Area vegetation community Total Area of Community within 652 61.3 within the NPWS Reserve Bioregion and Total Area of Community 2064 100 the current CONDITION ASSESSMENT area located within NPWS This section describes the intensity of disturbance features observed from aerial photo reserves patterns across the distribution of the vegetation community within the Special Area.

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 835.18 78.5 B Moderate 221.34 20.8 C Heavy 7.01 0.7 Total 1063.53 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES This section lists plant species that are on the NSW Threatened Species Act (1995) or are considered a Rare or Threatened Australian Plant (ROTAP) in Briggs and Leigh (1995).

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 3  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES Diagnostic Species provides one method of quantitatively reviewing the performance of plant species within a given community as compared to all other communities found in the Special Areas. Site data has been used to understand the median cover abundance (using a 1-7 cover scale) and frequency of occurrence of all The fidelity class species within the community. Species that occur frequently and at higher cover of the species scores have been highlighted as diagnostic species to help with the field has been classified as identification of the community. positive if it is unique to this community or it Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Class occurs more Score Freq Score Freq frequently and Adiantum aethiopicum 5 0.67 2 0.22 positive with higher median cover Allocasuarina torulosa 1 0.10 3 0.67 negative than all other Austrostipa pubescens 3 0.60 3 0.54 constant communities Brunoniella pumilio 1 0.20 2 0.33 uninformative found in the catchment. It is Negative if it is less abundant and less frequent in this community to other communities. It is constant if the species occurs as frequently and abundantly This provides the in all frequency of communities. Ot occurrence within is uninformative sites used to if it is neither classify the frequently recorded or community. In this This number abundant in case the species provides the median sites. has been found at cover score for this This number presents the 67% of sites species across all median cover score other communities in recorded for the species the special area. In within sites used to classify this case the cover the community. In this abundance is much case a median score of 5 lower in other =25-50% cover communities (2= This number tells <5% cover) you how frequently the species has been recorded in other groups. In this case other communities feature this species in 22% of sites

4 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU1 Sandstone Warm Temperate Rainforest Number of Sites: 13 No. taxa/plot: 28.2

 DESCRIPTION Sandstone Warm Temperate Rainforest occurs on protected lower slopes and gullies within deeply dissected sandstone valleys, gorges and sheltered escarpment slopes. Acmena smithii, Ceratopetalum apetalum and Doryphora sassafras form a dense canopy. Backhousia myrtifolia may also be included in the canopy, particularly on the edges where fire has penetrated the rainforest. The understorey is relatively open due to shade cast by the canopy. However, scattered small trees such as Callicoma serratifolia, Acacia elata, Tasmannia insipida and Notelaea longifolia are often found. The lowest stratum is fern dominated and is comprised of Blechnum cartilagineum, Asplenium flabellifolium, Pellaea nana and Adiantum hispidulum. Creeklines are marked by the prevalence of ferns such as Blechnum nudum, Todea barbara and Cyathea australis. Vines such as Morinda jasminoides, Cissus hypoglauca and Smilax australis are also a feature of this assemblage with the latter becoming very dominant in areas affected by disturbance. In some locations emergent Eucalypts such as Eucalyptus deanei and E. cypellocarpa tower above the rainforest canopy. Sandstone Warm Temperate Rainforest is distributed across the eastern and northern sandstone plateaux between Nattai Tableland and Cedar Valley. At higher elevations this community grades into Montane Cool-Warm Temperate Rainforest (MU2). Outside of the Warragamba Special Area, Sandstone Warm Temperate Rainforest is widespread across the broader Blue Mountains region. It extends across the Lower Blue Mountains and into Wollemi National Park in the north where similar climatic, geological and topographic characteristics prevail.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Emergents: Mean Upper Height 29m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 13% SD 12.1 Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Eucalyptus deanei, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera Trees: Mean Upper Height 24m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 67% SD 20.7 Ceratopetalum apetalum, Acmena smithii, Doryphora sassafras, Backhousia myrtifolia, Acacia elata Low Trees/Ferns: Mean Upper Height 9m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 35% SD 28.1 Cyathea australis, Todea barbara, Callicoma serratifolia, Tasmannia insipida, Notelaea longifolia, Pittosporum revolutum, Eupomatia laurina Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 18% SD 6.8 Blechnum cartilagineum, Asplenium flabellifolium, Cissus hypoglauca, Pellaea nana, Adiantum hispidulum, Blechnum nudum, Calochlaena dubia, Pseuderanthemum variabile

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 5 Vines & Climbers: no structural data available Morinda jasminoides, Smilax australis, Smilax glyciphylla, Cissus hypoglauca, Clematis aristata, Eustrephus latifolius

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Dense closed warm temperate rainforest canopy dominated by Lilly Pilly (Acmena smithii), Coachwood (Ceratopetalum apetalum), Sassafras (Doryphora sassafras) and Grey Myrtle (Backhousia myrtifolia).  Found in deeply incised sandstone gorges, valleys and protected escarpment slopes.  Diversity and abundance of fern species such as Gristle Fern (Blechnum cartilagineum), Rough Treefern (Cyathea australis) and Necklace Fern (Asplenium flabellifolium).  Occasional emergent canopy species such as Mountain Grey Gum (Eucalyptus cypellocarpa), Turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera) and Mountain Blue Gum (E. deanei).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Lacys Creek (Lacys Tableland); Centre Creek (Nattai Tableland); Pearces Mountain Gully and Ripple Creek (Kings Tableland); Cedar Creek (Cedar Valley) CONDITION ASSESSMENT

 RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 352.73 54.7 Burragorang SCA 55.28 8.6 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 6.49 1.0 Nattai NP 216.89 33.6 Nattai SCA 3.32 0.5 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 4.74 0.7 Total Reserved 639.45 99.1 Total Unreserved 5.78 0.9 Total Area within Warragamba Special 645.23 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >1500 75 Reserve Total Area of Community >2000 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 614.05 95.2 B Moderate 31.18 4.8 C Heavy 0 0 Total 645.23 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Eucalyptus hypostomatica (3RC-)

6 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Abrophyllum ornans 3 0.08 0 0.00 positive Acmena smithii 4 0.92 1 0.02 positive Asplenium flabellifolium 2 0.69 2 0.20 positive Backhousia myrtifolia 4 0.62 3 0.10 positive Blechnum cartilagineum 4 1.00 3 0.11 positive Blechnum wattsii 1 0.15 0 0.00 positive Callicoma serratifolia 2 0.54 3 0.03 positive Ceratopetalum apetalum 5 1.00 4 0.02 positive Cissus hypoglauca 3 0.62 2 0.10 positive Cyathea australis 2 0.77 1 0.03 positive Cyathea leichhardtiana 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Doryphora sassafras 4 0.85 4 0.01 positive Grammitis billardierei 2 0.23 0 0.00 positive Hymenophyllum cupressiforme 2 0.62 2 0.02 positive Hymenophyllum flabellatum 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Leptopteris fraseri 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Morinda jasminoides 3 0.85 2 0.05 positive Pellaea nana 2 0.62 2 0.04 positive Smilax australis 2 0.54 2 0.06 positive Syzygium oleosum 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Todea barbara 3 0.69 2 0.01 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.23 2 0.58 negative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 7 MU2 Montane Cool-Warm Temperate Rainforest Number of Sites: 4 No. taxa/plot: 35.5

 DESCRIPTION Montane Cool-Warm Temperate Rainforest occurs in sheltered gullies and protected south facing slopes at higher elevations in the west of the Special Area. The rainforest canopy is characterised by Doryphora sassafras, sometimes with Ceratopetalum apetalum and Acacia melanoxylon. The cooler climate influences the composition of the small tree layer. Treeferns such as Dicksonia antarctica and Cyathea australis are a frequent feature amongst small trees of Hedycarya angustifolia, Rapanea howittiana, Quintinia sieberi and Coprosma quadrifida. The understorey includes herbaceous species such as Urtica incisa and Stellaria flaccida amongst ferns such as Asplenium flabellifolium, Microsorum scandens, Pellaea falcata, Polystichum australiense, Blechnum cartilagineum and Lastreopsis decomposita. Emergent eucalypts also reflect the higher elevations associated with this community. It includes species such as Eucalyptus fastigata, E. cypellocarpa, E. smithii, E. oreades and E. bicostata. Montane Cool-Warm Temperate Rainforest is found on fine grained sediments (Devonian and Silurian Geologies) at elevations above 600 metres. Rainfall remains sufficiently high (greater than 950 millimetres per annum) to provide sufficient moisture for tall, well developed rainforest that reaches over twenty metres in height. Montane Cool-Warm Temperate Rainforest is closely related to montane rainforests occurring on basalt caps in the Blue Mountains and Wollemi National Parks. Similar rainforest is also prevalent on the escarpment of the South Coast south from the Deua Ranges (Forest Ecosystem 165 (NPWS, 2000a)). Floyd (1990) suggests the Warm Temperate rainforests of the Blue Mountains are being modified by an accelerated fire regime which favours Doryphora over Ceratopetalum due to the comparable fire resistance of its bark. The frequent presence of Acacia melanoxylon sampled within this assemblage also indicates the effects of fire.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Emergent Trees: Mean Upper Height 35m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 5% SD 4.9 Eucalyptus fastigata, Eucalyptus bicostata, Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Eucalyptus smithii, Eucalyptus oreades Trees: Mean Upper Height 32m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 35% SD 23.4 Doryphora sassafras, Ceratopetalum apetalum, Acacia melanoxylon

8 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Small Trees/Ferns: Mean Upper Height 15m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 31% SD18.7 Hedycarya angustifolia, Dicksonia antarctica, Rapanea howittiana, Quintinia sieberi, Coprosma quadrifida Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 29% SD 11.1 Asplenium flabellifolium, Urtica incisa, Microsorum scandens, Pellaea falcata, Polystichum australiense, Stellaria flaccida, Blechnum cartilagineum, Lastreopsis decomposita, Pyrrosia rupestris, Blechnum patersonii subsp. patersonii Vines & Climbers: no structural data available Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana, Aphanopetalum resinosum, Clematis aristata, Rubus rosifolius var. rosifolius, Morinda jasminoides, Eustrephus latifolius, Tylophora barbata

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Dense canopy of Sassafras (Doryphora sassafras), with Coachwood (Ceratopetalum apetalum) and Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon). Species typical of these cooler climates include Pinkwood (Quintinia sieberi) and Native Mulberry (Hedycarya angustifolia).  High diversity of ferns unique to this community. Abundance of Treeferns such as Dicksonia antarctica and Cyathea australis. Some rhizomatous ferns are found on rocks and logs. These include Microsorum scandens and Arthropteris tenella.  At elevations greater than 600 metres in sheltered locations on fine grained sediments in the north west of the Special Area.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Ti Willa Creek; Upper reaches of Black Creek (Cronje Mountain); Gully just east of Mt. Shivering (Murruin Range)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 156.17 58.1 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 112.74 41.9 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 268.91 100 Total Unreserved 0.03 0 Total Area within Warragamba Special 268.94 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 1039 26.5 Reserve Total Area of Community >3916 100 CONDITION ASSESSMENT Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 261.82 97.4 B Moderate 7.12 2.6 C Heavy 0 0 Total 268.94 100

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 9  THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia melanoxylon 4 0.50 2 0.04 positive Aphanopetalum resinosum 4 0.50 2 0.05 positive Arthropteris tenella 2 0.50 4 0.00 positive Asplenium flabellifolium 2 1.00 2 0.21 positive Blechnum cartilagineum 4 0.50 3 0.11 positive Blechnum patersonii subsp. patersonii 4 0.50 2 0.00 positive Ceratopetalum apetalum 6 0.50 4 0.03 positive Clematis aristata 2 0.50 2 0.35 positive Coprosma quadrifida 2 0.50 2 0.04 positive Cyathea australis 4 1.00 2 0.04 positive Dichondra repens 2 0.50 3 0.36 positive Dicksonia antarctica 5 0.50 1 0.00 positive Diplazium australe 1 0.25 0 0.00 positive Doodia aspera 2 0.50 2 0.11 positive Doryphora sassafras 5 1.00 3 0.03 positive Eucalyptus fastigata 4 0.50 3 0.06 positive Hedycarya angustifolia 2 0.75 1 0.02 positive Lastreopsis acuminata 1 0.75 0 0.00 positive Lastreopsis decomposita 4 0.50 0 0.00 positive Microlaena stipoides 2 0.50 2 0.37 positive Microsorum scandens 4 0.75 0 0.00 positive Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana 4 1.00 2 0.26 positive Parietaria debilis 4 0.50 2 0.01 positive Pellaea falcata 3 0.75 2 0.17 positive Pellaea nana 3 0.50 2 0.04 positive Polystichum australiense 3 0.75 2 0.02 positive Pyrrosia rupestris 3 0.50 2 0.05 positive Quintinia sieberi 3 0.50 1 0.01 positive Rapanea howittiana 2 0.75 2 0.03 positive Rubus rosifolius var. rosifolius 4 0.50 2 0.01 positive Rumex brownii 2 0.50 1 0.05 positive Stellaria flaccida 3 0.75 2 0.09 positive Urtica incisa 2 1.00 2 0.07 positive Lomandra longifolia 0 0.00 2 0.55 negative

10 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU3 Grey Myrtle Dry Rainforest

Number of Sites: 28 No. taxa/plot: 46.5

 DESCRIPTION Grey Myrtle Dry Rainforest is the most extensive rainforest community found in the Special Area. It occurs across a wide variety of soils and landscapes on sheltered slopes, gullies, creek-lines and limestone outcrops. It is a dry rainforest community occurring in areas with mean annual rainfall generally less than 1000 millimetres. Backhousia myrtifolia forms a dense canopy varying from stunted thickets to small trees in more protected locations. At these sites Ficus rubiginosa, Rapanea howittiana or Alectryon subcinereus may also share the canopy. Emergent Eucalypts may also feature above the rainforest canopy and Melaleuca styphelioides may form in drainage lines. The shrub layer is generally very sparse and may include scattered Breynia oblongifolia or Notelaea longifolia forma longifolia. An array of ferns and vines provide a sparse cover across a dry to damp soil. Asplenium flabellifolium, Adiantum aethiopicum, Pellaea spp., Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana and Aphanopetalum resinosum are typical. Also found are herbs including Plectranthus parvifolius, Dichondra repens and the small epiphyte Pyrrosia rupestris. At particularly dry sites, vines and ferns are virtually absent from the community leaving an open exposed dry soil or rock cover. Grey Myrtle Dry Rainforest is the least diverse rainforest community within the Special Area. It is widespread throughout the Sydney Basin Bioregion in dry climates with infertile soils. As much of the sandstone reserve system falls within these environments, this community is well conserved throughout the Blue Mountains, Wollemi and Yengo reserves.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Emergents: Mean Upper Height 21m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 6% SD 5.3 Eucalyptus tereticornis, Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus crebra, Eucalyptus albens, Eucalyptus deanei, Eucalyptus elata, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus fibrosa, Eucalyptus hypostomatica, Eucalyptus melliodora Trees: Mean Upper Height 15m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 49% SD 26.3 Backhousia myrtifolia, Ficus rubiginosa, Rapanea howittiana, Alectryon subcinereus, Pittosporum undulatum, Melaleuca styphelioides

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 11 Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 29% SD 25.6 Breynia oblongifolia, Notelaea longifolia forma longifolia Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 24% SD 19.4 Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana, Geitonoplesium cymosum, Asplenium flabellifolium, Adiantum aethiopicum, Pellaea falcata, Pellaea nana, Plectranthus parvifolius, Oplismenus imbecillis, Dichondra repens, Microlaena stipoides, Pyrrosia rupestris, Aphanopetalum resinosum, Desmodium varians, Eustrephus latifolius, Doodia aspera, Cissus antarctica

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Dense canopy cover of Grey Myrtle (Backhousia myrtifolia) in sheltered locations throughout the Special Area.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Mouin Creek and White Dog Creek (Wild Dog Mountains); Breakfast Creek; Lower south facing slopes abutting the Coxs and Kowmung Rivers; Milnigang Falls (Wollondilly River)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 2232.63 45.1 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 1470.14 29.7 Nattai NP 159.84 3.2 Nattai SCA 1.42 0.0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 18.90 0.4 Yerranderie SCA 495.75 10.0 Total Reserved 4378.68 88.5 Total Unreserved 570.05 11.5 Total Area within Warragamba Special 4948.73 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >5000 71.4 Reserve Total Area of Community >7000 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 4585.48 92.7 B Moderate 187.97 3.8 C Heavy 175.28 3.5 Total 4948.73 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Acacia clunies-rossiae (V), Haloragis exalata (V), Eucalyptus hypostomatica (3RC-), Senecio macranthus (3RC-)

12 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acronychia oblongifolia 4 0.04 0 0.00 positive Adiantum aethiopicum 3 0.75 2 0.21 positive Aphanopetalum resinosum 2 0.61 2 0.03 positive Asplenium flabellifolium 2 0.82 2 0.20 positive Backhousia myrtifolia 6 0.86 2 0.09 positive Cayratia clematidea 2 0.50 2 0.07 positive Clematis aristata 2 0.54 2 0.34 positive Desmodium varians 2 0.61 2 0.27 positive Dichondra repens 2 0.64 3 0.36 positive Eclipta platyglossa 1 0.04 0 0.00 positive Eustrephus latifolius 2 0.61 1 0.14 positive Geitonoplesium cymosum 2 0.86 2 0.28 positive Microlaena stipoides 2 0.64 2 0.36 positive Myoporum acuminatum 1 0.04 0 0.00 positive Oplismenus imbecillis 3 0.64 2 0.16 positive Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana 2 0.96 2 0.24 positive Pellaea falcata 2 0.71 2 0.16 positive Pellaea nana 3 0.68 1 0.02 positive Plectranthus parviflorus 2 0.68 2 0.16 positive Pterostylis species B 3 0.04 0 0.00 positive Pyrrosia rupestris 2 0.64 2 0.04 positive Lomandra longifolia 1 0.29 2 0.56 negative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 13 MU4 Kowmung Dry Rainforest

Number of Sites: 6 No. taxa/plot: 27.2

 DESCRIPTION Kowmung Dry Rainforest (Fisher et al., 1995) occurs in deeply incised gullies and rocky scree slopes of the Kowmung and Wollondilly Valleys. This low closed forest community features a number of subtropical components that include Toona ciliata, Dendrocnide excelsa and Alectryon subcinereus. Ehretia acuminata var. acuminata, Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus, Ficus rubiginosa, Claoxylon australe and Backhousia myrtifolia are also associate tree species. Mid storey species are generally sparse in cover and include Hymenanthera dentata, Rapanea howittiana, Notelaea longifolia and Trema tomentosa var. viridis. The lower stratum is characterised by a diversity of ferns and herbs such as Adiantum hispidulum, A. formosum, A. aethiopicum, Asplenium flabellifolium, Doodia aspera, Pellaea falcata, Plectranthus parvifolius, Stellaria flaccida and Oplismenus aemulus. Vines and lianas permeate all strata layers and include Celastrus australis, Deeringia amaranthoides, Rubus parvifolius, Aphanopetalum resinosum, Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana, Cissus antarctica, C. hypoglauca and Marsdenia flavescens. Kowmung Dry Rainforest shares many species with Grey Myrtle Dry Rainforest (MU3). Separation between them has been made on the basis of taller upper strata and a more variable canopy composition associated with Kowmung Dry Rainforest. These characteristics are detectable from aerial photo patterns and have been used to guide the mapped extent in the catchment. Within the Special Area this rainforest is found on steep south facing creeklines below the Bindook Highlands, Coxs Creek and Kowmung Valleys. Much of the extent of this community except for the most inaccessible gullies has been logged for Red Cedar in the late 1800’s. Coupled with the impact of frequent fire, Floyd (1990) suggests that the rainforest is probably shrinking and may not be viable in the long term. Kowmung Dry Rainforest represents a depauperate form of subtropical rainforest (sub-alliance 14) which extends from the western base of the Barrington Tops to the Clyde Valley on the south coast (Floyd, 1990).

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Emergents: Height 20-30m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 5% Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus smithii Trees: Height 8-15m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 80% Toona ciliata, Dendrocnide excelsa, Ehretia acuminata var. acuminata, Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus, Alectryon subcinereus, Backhousia myrtifolia, Ficus rubiginosa, Claoxylon australe, Doryphora sassafras Shrubs: Height 1-3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 20% Hymenanthera dentata, Rapanea howittiana, Notelaea longifolia, Trema tomentosa var. viridis Ground covers: Height 1m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 30% Deeringia amaranthoides, Aphanopetalum resinosum, Celastrus australis, Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana, Adiantum hispidulum, Adiantum formosum, Adiantum flabellifolium, Pellaea falcata, Urtica incisa, Stellaria flaccida, Doodia aspera, Plectranthus parvifolius

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:

 A diverse canopy including some or all of the following; Red Cedar (Toona ciliata), Giant Stinging Tree (Dendrocnide excelsa), Wild Quince (Alectryon subcinereus), Rusty Fig (Ficus rubiginosa) or Koda (Ehretia acuminata var. acuminata).  Often found in association with Grey Myrtle (Backhousia myrtifolia).

14 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 Found within the deep gorges of the Kowmung and Wollondilly Catchments

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Church Creek; Christys Creek; Colong Creek; Bullhead Creek; Bellbird Corner (Wombeyan Caves Road)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 376.98 40.4 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 447.04 48.0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 96.92 10.4 Total Reserved 920.94 98.8 Total Unreserved 11.26 1.2 Total Area within Warragamba Special 932.19 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >921 88.4 Reserve Total Area of Community >1042 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 930.25 99.8 B Moderate 0 0 C Heavy 1.94 0.2 Total 932.19 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Acacia clunies-rossiae (V), Parahebe lithophila (2RC-)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Alectryon subcinereus 2 0.83 2 0.02 positive Asplenium flabellifolium 2 0.67 2 0.21 positive Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus 2 0.50 1 0.11 positive Bursaria spinosa 2 0.83 2 0.25 positive Cayratia clematidea 2 0.50 2 0.08 positive Celastrus australis 2 0.50 1 0.03 positive Cissus hypoglauca 3 0.50 2 0.10 positive Deeringia amaranthoides 2 0.50 2 0.01 positive Dendrocnide excelsa 3 0.50 2 0.00 positive Eustrephus latifolius 2 0.50 1 0.15 positive Ficus rubiginosa 2 0.50 1 0.03 positive Geitonoplesium cymosum 2 0.67 2 0.29 positive

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 15 Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Marsdenia flavescens 2 0.67 1 0.02 positive Morinda jasminoides 2 0.50 2 0.06 positive Nyssanthes erecta 1 0.33 0 0.00 positive Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana 3 0.83 2 0.26 positive Pellaea falcata 2 0.83 2 0.17 positive Pittosporum multiflorum 2 0.50 2 0.05 positive Plectranthus parviflorus 2 0.83 2 0.17 positive Rapanea howittiana 3 0.50 2 0.03 positive Sigesbeckia orientalis subsp. orientalis 2 0.67 2 0.13 positive Stellaria flaccida 4 0.50 2 0.09 positive Stephania japonica var. discolor 3 0.50 2 0.10 positive Urtica incisa 3 0.83 2 0.06 positive Lomandra longifolia 0 0.00 2 0.55 negative

16 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU5 Highlands Basalt Acacia Scrub

Number of Sites: 2 No. taxa/plot: 31.5

 DESCRIPTION Highlands Basalt Acacia Scrub occurs in localised patches on dry rocky knolls and scree slopes on the basalt capped Mt. Wanganderry. The upper stratum is principally composed of Acacia melanoxylon along with Rapanea howittiana and Ficus rubiginosa. Shrubs are sparse with Hymenanthera dentata, Olearia viscidula and Sigesbeckia orientalis subsp. orientalis occurring most frequently. The ground layer is dominated by ferns, herbs and scramblers such as Urtica incisa, Geranium solanderi var. solanderi, Stellaria pungens, Aphanopetalum resinosum, Celastrus australis and Rubus parvifolius. Mt. Wanganderry has been subject to a history of clearing and disturbance, indicated by the abundance of Acacia spp. and Urtica incisa in this assemblage. Highlands Basalt Acacia Scrubs are depauperate rainforest assemblages that have close association with cool-warm temperate rainforest found on high elevations on richer soils of the Sydney Basin Bioregion. Examples of the well- developed rainforest occur on identical soils on the Robertson Plateau where considerably higher rainfall supports mesophyll trees such as Acmena smithii and Doryphora sassafras.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 52% SD 17.6 Acacia melanoxylon, Rapanea howittiana, Ficus rubiginosa, Acacia mearnsii Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 1.3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 20% SD 21.2 Hymenanthera dentata, Olearia viscidula, Sigesbeckia orientalis subsp. orientalis Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.4m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 17.5% SD 17.6 Urtica incisa, Geranium solanderi var. solanderi, Stellaria pungens, Asplenium flabellifolium, Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides, Geitonoplesium cymosum, Lomandra longifolia, Aphanopetalum resinosum, Celastrus australis, Rubus parvifolius

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Rocky ground, scree slopes on basalt at Mt. Wanganderry.  Canopy dominated by Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Mt. Wanganderry

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 17  CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0 0 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 0 0 Total Unreserved 7.79 100 Total Area within Warragamba Special 7.79 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 0 0 Reserve Total Area of Community >100 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 0 0 B Moderate 0 0 C Heavy 7.79 100 Total 7.79 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia mearnsii 2 0.50 2 0.00 positive Acacia melanoxylon 5 1.00 2 0.04 positive Adiantum aethiopicum 2 0.50 2 0.22 positive Aphanopetalum resinosum 5 0.50 2 0.05 positive Asplenium flabellifolium 2 1.00 2 0.22 positive Celastrus australis 4 0.50 1 0.04 positive Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides 2 1.00 2 0.16 positive Crassula sieberiana 2 0.50 1 0.08 positive Einadia hastata 3 0.50 1 0.07 positive Geitonoplesium cymosum 2 1.00 2 0.29 positive Geranium solanderi var. solanderi 3 1.00 2 0.12 positive Hymenanthera dentata 3 0.50 2 0.09 positive Microlaena stipoides 2 1.00 2 0.37 positive Notodanthonia longifolia 2 0.50 2 0.09 positive Olearia viscidula 3 0.50 2 0.32 positive Oxalis perennans 2 0.50 2 0.13 positive Pellaea falcata 2 0.50 2 0.17 positive

18 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei 2 0.50 2 0.14 positive Pteridium esculentum 2 0.50 2 0.36 positive Rapanea howittiana 5 0.50 2 0.03 positive Rubus parvifolius 4 0.50 2 0.13 positive Senecio quadridentatus 3 0.50 2 0.02 positive Sigesbeckia orientalis subsp. orientalis 2 0.50 2 0.14 positive Solanum opacum 2 1.00 1 0.01 positive Stellaria pungens 3 1.00 2 0.14 positive Tylophora barbata 3 0.50 2 0.18 positive Urtica incisa 4 1.00 2 0.07 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 1.00 2 0.55 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 19 MU6 Sandstone Riparian Scrub

Number of Sites: 4 (3 sites outside Special Area) No. taxa/plot: 37

 DESCRIPTION A low mesic scrub less than five metres tall occurs along deeply incised creeklines on Hawkesbury Sandstones on the Burragorang Plateau. The Riparian Scrub features a variable cover of shrubs that include Tristaniopsis laurina, Leptospermum morrisonii, Tristania neriifolia, Allocasuarina littoralis, Ceratopetalum apetalum and Backhousia myrtifolia. The latter two species tend to be more prominent amongst stream boulders (Keith, 1994) and around minor waterfalls. The smaller shrub layer is dominated by Lomatia myricoides, with Acacia obtusifolia, Bauera rubioides, Micrantheum hexandrum and Pseudanthus pimeleoides. The ground cover supports an abundant cover of moisture loving ferns such as Sticherus flabellatus var. flabellatus and Gleichenia microphylla. The fern cover is often broken by a series of rock pools, recent sandy alluvial deposits and rock pavements. Branches of the surrounding Eucalypt forest form an occasional shade cover across the gully line. Tree species are variable depending on location but frequently are Eucalyptus piperita, E. agglomerata or Angophora costata. Sandstone Riparian Scrub occurs is restricted to several steep dry rocky gorges near Warragamba. In many instances this community occurs in narrow bands which are too small to map. Sandstone Riparian Scrub is common throughout Sydney sandstone environments although it is not extensive given preference for narrow gully habitat. Similar communities are found in Woronora and Metropolitan Catchments (NPWS, 2003), Holsworthy Military Area (French et al., 2000) and Royal National Park (Keith, 1994). Elsewhere in the Sydney Basin Bioregion it has been recorded in Wollemi and Yengo National Park (Bell, 1998) and would be expected to occur in several additional sandstone reserves to the south and east.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY

Trees: 20-30m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 5% Angophora costata, Eucalyptus piperita, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus pilularis Taller Shrubs: 2-5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 40% Tristaniopsis laurina, Tristania neriifolia, Ceratopetalum apetalum, Leptospermum morrisonii, Allocasuarina littoralis, Dodonaea triquetra, Acacia irrorata subsp. irrorata, Callicoma serratifolia Shrubs: 0.5-1.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 30% Lomatia myricoides, Acacia obtusifolia, Bauera rubioides, Micrantheum hexandrum, Prostanthera linearis, Hakea salicifolia

20 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Ground covers: 0.5-1m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 35% Sticherus flabellatus var. flabellatus, Gleichenia microphylla, Schoenus melanostachys, Lepidosperma laterale, Lomandra fluviatilis, Lomandra longifolia, Entolasia stricta

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Gully line habitat on Hawkesbury Sandstone. Rock pools, waterfalls, rock platforms and sandy banks are regularly observed along creek lines.  Water Gums (Tristaniopsis laurina, Tristania neriifolia) are the prominent feature of this community. They are generally low in height although where there is greater shelter, the community is slightly taller and includes Coachwood (Ceratopetalum apetalum) and Grey Myrtle (Backhousia myrtifolia).  Dense cover of ferns including the Umbrella Fern (Sticherus flabellatus var. flabellatus) and the Scrambling Coral Fern (Gleichenia microphylla).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Dry creeklines near east Warragamba Walls

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0 0 Burragorang SCA 42.47 65.4 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 19.31 29.8 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 2.49 3.8 Total Reserved 64.27 99.0 Total Unreserved 0.63 1.0 Total Area within Warragamba Special 64.90 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 975 65 Reserve Total Area of Community >1500 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 30.81 47.5 B Moderate 0 0 C Heavy 34.09 52.5 Total 64.90 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Lomandra fluviatilis (3RCa)

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 21  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia obtusifolia 4 1.00 2 0.12 positive Allocasuarina littoralis 2 0.50 1 0.14 positive Austromyrtus tenuifolia 2 0.17 0 0.00 positive Bauera rubioides 2 0.67 2 0.07 positive Beyeria lasiocarpa 1 0.17 0 0.00 positive Dodonaea triquetra 3 0.50 2 0.12 positive Gleichenia microphylla 4 0.50 3 0.04 positive Guringalia dimorpha 2 0.83 2 0.07 positive Lomandra fluviatilis 3 0.83 1 0.02 positive Lomatia myricoides 3 1.00 1 0.03 positive Micrantheum hexandrum 4 0.50 0 0.00 positive Philydrum lanuginosum 1 0.17 0 0.00 positive Pseudanthus pimeleoides 2 0.83 1 0.01 positive Sticherus flabellatus var. flabellatus 4 0.67 2 0.04 positive Tristania neriifolia 3 0.83 1 0.01 positive Tristaniopsis laurina 3 0.83 3 0.02 positive Entolasia stricta 2 0.67 2 0.53 constant

22 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU7 Montane Gully Brown Barrel Forest

Number of Sites: 16 No. taxa/plot: 41.6

 DESCRIPTION Montane Gully Brown Barrel Forest is a tall forest occurring across moist, sheltered slopes and gullies of the high elevations in the west of the Warragamba Special Area. It is found from Black Range, across Murruin Range to the Bindook Highlands. This community favours sediments derived from Devonian quartzite, Silurian schist, Basalt and Devonian Porphyry across elevations above 750 metres. Tall Eucalyptus fastigata form the dominant canopy species with other associates including E. dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana, E. cypellocarpa and E. radiata subsp. radiata. Heights of trees may attain 40 metres or more. A sparse small tree layer includes Acacia falciformis with A. melanoxylon and Doryphora sassafras occurring on basalt soils or in more protected sites. Lower shrubs are commonly Coprosma quadrifida with occasional Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus. Treeferns, Cyathea australis and Dicksonia antarctica are most prominent near creeklines. The ground cover is a prominent cushion of ferns that consistently includes Pteridium esculentum with Blechnum cartilagineum, B. nudum, Asplenium flabellifolium, Polystichum australiense and Calochlaena dubia along creeklines. Other ground covers include Clematis aristata, Viola hederacea, Microlaena stipoides, Lomandra longifolia, Hydrocotyle laxiflora, Geitonoplesium cymosum, Stellaria pungens and Dianella caerulea. NPWS (2000a) suggests that a closely aligned community (Forest Ecosystem 63) is unlikely to be extensively distributed outside of the Special Area. Small, isolated residual Basalt caps on high peaks in Wollemi and Blue Mountains National Parks are likely to retain a similar assemblage (Bell, 1998; Keith and Benson, 1988). Intensive logging has occurred within this community near accessible areas around Mt. Werong.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 30m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 26% SD 7.1 Eucalyptus fastigata, Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana, Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata, Eucalyptus blaxlandii, Eucalyptus obliqua, Eucalyptus elata, Eucalyptus viminalis

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 23 Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 11m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 9% SD 7.1 Acacia falciformis, Acacia melanoxylon, Doryphora sassafras Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 7% SD 4.0 Coprosma quadrifida, Cyathea australis, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Bursaria spinosa Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 70% SD 16.9 Pteridium esculentum, Clematis aristata, Viola hederacea, Microlaena stipoides, Hydrocotyle laxiflora, Geitonoplesium cymosum, Stellaria pungens, Stellaria flaccida, Dianella caerulea, Lomandra longifolia

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Tall Brown Barrel (Eucalyptus fastigata) with Mountain Gum (Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana) at higher elevations.  High abundance of ferns in the ground cover dominated by Bracken (Pteridium esculentum) and Blechnum cartilagineum.  On Basalt Caps or deep sheltered slopes and gullies at elevations generally above 750 metres.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Mt. Shivering and surrounding gully heads (Murruin Range); Upper slopes of Black Creek (Mt. Cronje); Gully heads surrounding Little Wombeyan Creek

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 2981.40 62.1 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 1713.54 35.7 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 4694.94 97.8 Total Unreserved 103.60 2.2 Total Area within Warragamba Special 4798.54 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >4700 78 Reserve Total Area of Community >6000 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 3164.35 65.9 B Moderate 1603.03 33.4 C Heavy 31.16 0.7 Total 4798.54 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Geranium graniticola (3RC-)

24 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia falciformis 3 0.65 2 0.16 positive Blechnum cartilagineum 4 0.53 3 0.12 positive Clematis aristata 2 1.00 2 0.32 positive Coprosma quadrifida 2 0.65 2 0.04 positive Cyrtostylis reniformis 2 0.06 0 0.00 positive Echinopogon ovatus 2 0.53 2 0.20 positive Eucalyptus fastigata 4 0.82 3 0.03 positive Geranium potentilloides 3 0.59 3 0.02 positive Histiopteris incisa 2 0.06 0 0.00 positive Hydrocotyle laxiflora 3 0.71 2 0.20 positive Lagenifera stipitata 3 0.53 2 0.10 positive Microlaena stipoides 2 0.88 2 0.40 positive Plantago debilis 2 0.59 2 0.17 positive Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana 3 0.53 3 0.19 positive Poranthera microphylla 2 0.71 2 0.19 positive Pteridium esculentum 3 1.00 2 0.36 positive Rubus parvifolius 2 0.53 2 0.13 positive Senecio species E 2 0.65 1 0.09 positive Stellaria flaccida 2 0.53 2 0.07 positive Stellaria pungens 2 0.71 2 0.12 positive Viola hederacea 2 1.00 2 0.22 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.88 2 0.57 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 25 MU8 Sandstone Moist Blue Gum Forest

Number of Sites: 10 No. taxa/plot: 31.2

 DESCRIPTION Sandstone Moist Blue Gum Forest is a very tall mesic forest occurring in deep, protected gullies of the sandstone plateaux and in very sheltered sites beneath the sandstone escarpments. Massive Eucalyptus deanei that may attain heights over 50 metres are the dominant feature of the canopy along with Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera, E. cypellocarpa and Angophora floribunda along creek lines. The characteristic feature of this assemblage is a tall sub canopy of Ceratopetalum apetalum and Acacia elata often in association with smaller trees of Callicoma serratifolia, Ceratopetalum gummiferum, Elaeocarpus reticulatus and Acmena smithii. Given the shade cast by the canopy and sub canopy layer the ground cover is dominated by a cushion of ferns, the most abundant being Calochlaena dubia. Other fern species include Blechnum cartilagineum, Pteridium esculentum and Asplenium flabellifolium. Vines such as Cissus hypoglauca and Morinda jasminoides are also common amongst the ground cover as is scattered Lomandra longifolia. Where this assemblage occurs alongside watercourses, Sticherus flabellatus var. flabellatus along with Todea barbara often become abundant. Sandstone Moist Blue Gum Forest represents the most sheltered of the Eucalypt dominated forests found on sandstone derived soils. It grades into Sandstone Warm Temperate Rainforest (MU1) in more protected locations where Doryphora sassafras and Acmena smithii form a closed canopy with Ceratopetalum apetalum. Outside of the Special Area Sandstone Moist Blue Gum Forest is found in deeply dissected sandstone gorges of the Blue Mountains and Wollemi National Parks.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 26.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 42% SD 25.5 Eucalyptus deanei, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera, Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus piperita, Angophora costata, Eucalyptus punctata Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 13m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 22% SD 18.5 Acacia elata, Ceratopetalum apetalum, Ceratopetalum gummiferum, Acmena smithii, Callicoma serratifolia, Elaeocarpus reticulatus Shrubs/Ferns: Mean Upper Height 6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 27% SD 15.6 Todea barbara, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus

26 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 1.4m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 62% SD 25.7 Blechnum cartilagineum, Calochlaena dubia, Pteridium esculentum, Asplenium flabellifolium, Lomandra longifolia, Morinda jasminoides, Sticherus flabellatus var. flabellatus, Cissus hypoglauca, Pellaea falcata, Tylophora barbata, Clematis aristata

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Tall Mountain Blue Gums (Eucalyptus deanei) located in incised sandstone gorges and protected escarpment slopes.  A mesic developing sub canopy characterised by Cedar Wattle (Acacia elata) and Coachwood (Ceratopetalum apetalum).  A dense ground cover of Common Ground Fern (Calochlaena dubia).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Upper Lacys Creek; Pocket Creek (Kings Tableland); Martins Creek Canyon; Gillans Creek (next to Sheeys Mountain)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 2529.79 67.0 Burragorang SCA 649.97 17.2 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 470.83 12.5 Nattai SCA 34.35 0.9 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 3684.94 97.6 Total Unreserved 90.82 2.4 Total Area within Warragamba Special 3775.75 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >8000 72.7 Reserve Total Area of Community >11000 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 3127.37 82.8 B Moderate 502.23 13.3 C Heavy 146.15 3.9 Total 3775.75 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Lissanthe sapida (3RCa), Parahebe lithophila (2RC-)

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 27  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia elata 4 0.90 2 0.04 positive Asplenium flabellifolium 2 0.60 2 0.21 positive Blechnum cartilagineum 4 1.00 3 0.11 positive Callicoma serratifolia 4 0.70 2 0.02 positive Calochlaena dubia 6 0.90 3 0.07 positive Ceratopetalum apetalum 5 0.70 4 0.03 positive Ceratopetalum gummiferum 4 0.50 4 0.03 positive Christella dentata 2 0.10 0 0.00 positive Clematis aristata 2 0.50 2 0.35 positive Elaeocarpus reticulatus 3 0.70 1 0.16 positive Eucalyptus deanei 4 0.60 4 0.06 positive Geitonoplesium cymosum 2 0.50 2 0.29 positive Hymenophyllum cupressiforme 2 0.50 2 0.02 positive Microsorum pustulatum subsp. pustulatum 1 0.10 0 0.00 positive Morinda jasminoides 2 0.60 2 0.06 positive Pteridium esculentum 2 0.70 2 0.36 positive Smilax glyciphylla 2 0.50 1 0.07 positive Sticherus flabellatus var. flabellatus 4 0.50 3 0.01 positive Todea barbara 4 0.50 2 0.01 positive Viola hederacea 2 0.50 2 0.24 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.60 2 0.55 constant

28 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU9 Sheltered Sandstone Intermediate Blue Gum Forest

Number of Sites: 23 No. taxa/plot: 46.8

 DESCRIPTION Sheltered Sandstone Intermediate Blue Gum Forest is extensively distributed across the northern and eastern areas of the Warragamba Special Area on sheltered slopes and gullies associated with the sandstone plateaux. Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera is abundant in the upper canopy or amongst the smaller trees found in the mid strata. Tall to very tall Eucalyptus deanei and Angophora costata are the most frequently recorded associate canopy species. Unlike Sandstone Moist Blue Gum Forest (MU8), the mid strata does not have an abundance of mesic species. Acacia elata, Acmena smithii and Ceratopetalum apetalum can occur amongst this community but generally at low abundance. More pronounced are the fern and low shrub layers found in these semi moist environments. Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Notelaea longifolia forma longifolia, Elaeocarpus reticulatus, Persoonia linearis, Tristaniopsis collina and Breynia oblongifolia are typical. Cyathea australis is generally the tallest fern, occurring above others such as Calochlaena dubia, Pteridium esculentum and Blechnum cartilagineum. Vine species twist through the ferns and across debris of the forest floor. Smilax australis, Geitonoplesium cymosum, Tylophora barbata, Morinda jasminoides, Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana and Eustrephus latifolius are frequently recorded. Sheltered Sandstone Intermediate Blue Gum Forest extends throughout the Blue Mountains and Wollemi National Parks in dissected sandstone gorges.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 23m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 41% SD 9.5 Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera, Eucalyptus deanei, Angophora costata Minor associates: Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus piperita, Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus pilularis

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 29 Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 12.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 24% SD 13.5 Acacia elata, Allocasuarina torulosa, Allocasuarina littoralis, Ceratopetalum apetalum, Acmena smithii, Ceratopetalum gummiferum Low Shrubs/Trees: Mean Upper Height 4m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 16% SD 8.3 Elaeocarpus reticulatus, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Notelaea longifolia forma longifolia, Callicoma serratifolia, Persoonia linearis, Tristaniopsis collina, Cyathea australis, Acrotriche divaricata, Pittosporum revolutum Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 1m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 38% SD 31.8 Blechnum cartilagineum, Calochlaena dubia, Lomandra longifolia, Pteridium esculentum, Viola hederacea, Dianella caerulea Vines & Climbers: no structural data available Cissus hypoglauca, Smilax australis, Morinda jasminoides, Geitonoplesium cymosum, Tylophora barbata, Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana, Eustrephus latifolius, Clematis aristata

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Tall forest comprising Turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera), Mountain Blue Gum (Eucalyptus deanei) and Smooth-barked Apple (Angophora costata).  A developing mesic small tree layer.  An understorey characterised by a high diversity of ferns and vine species.  Occurring on sheltered slopes and margins of sandstone gullies, or below sheltered sandstone scarps.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Sheltered slopes of Ruined Castle Ridge; Gogongelly, Ripple and Pocket Creeks (Kings Tableland); Centre Creek and Upper Martins Creek Canyon (Wild Goat Plateau); Sheltered upper slopes of the Tonalli Range

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 889.53 16.9 Burragorang SCA 1185.45 22.5 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 2491.91 47.4 Nattai SCA 253.86 4.8 Thirlmere Lakes NP 1.32 0.0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 4822.07 91.7 Total Unreserved 436.56 8.3 Total Area within Warragamba Special 5258.63 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >30000 85.7 Reserve Total Area of Community >35000 100

30 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 3741.31 71.1 B Moderate 1371.32 26.1 C Heavy 146.00 2.8 Total 5258.63 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Lissanthe sapida (3RCa), Gonocarpus longifolius (3RC-), Olearia quercifolia (3RC-)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acrotriche divaricata 2 0.57 1 0.03 positive Amyema gaudichaudii 1 0.04 0 0.00 positive Angophora costata 4 0.65 4 0.09 positive Asterolasia correifolia 3 0.17 0 0.00 positive Blechnum cartilagineum 3 0.87 3 0.10 positive Calochlaena dubia 4 0.83 3 0.06 positive Cissus hypoglauca 3 0.78 1 0.09 positive Dianella caerulea 2 0.74 2 0.34 positive Elaeocarpus reticulatus 2 0.83 1 0.15 positive Entolasia stricta 2 0.52 2 0.35 positive Eucalyptus deanei 4 0.65 4 0.05 positive Gahnia erythrocarpa 1 0.04 0 0.00 positive Geitonoplesium cymosum 2 0.70 2 0.28 positive Lasiopetalum parviflorum 4 0.04 0 0.00 positive Lepidosperma laterale 2 0.57 2 0.26 positive Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus 2 0.83 2 0.27 positive Morinda jasminoides 2 0.57 2 0.05 positive Notelaea longifolia forma longifolia 3 0.65 1 0.16 positive Persoonia linearis 2 0.61 2 0.44 positive Pteridium esculentum 2 0.70 2 0.35 positive Rapanea variabilis 3 0.52 2 0.03 positive Smilax australis 2 0.65 2 0.04 positive Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera 5 0.83 4 0.09 positive Tristaniopsis collina 3 0.52 1 0.01 positive Tylophora barbata 3 0.57 2 0.17 positive Viola hederacea 2 0.87 2 0.23 positive Lomandra longifolia 3 0.87 2 0.54 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 31 MU10 Sheltered Sandstone Smooth- barked Apple Forest

Number of Sites: 5 No. taxa/plot: 36.6

 DESCRIPTION Sheltered Sandstone Smooth-barked Apple Forest is an open forest occurring on Narrabeen Sandstone found along Kings Tableland. This is an open forest assemblage with dominant canopy species of Angophora costata, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera and Eucalyptus piperita. The understorey exhibits characteristics typical of sheltered locations with infertile sandstone soils. Frequently occurring species include Acrotriche divaricata, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Elaeocarpus reticulatus, Allocasuarina littoralis, Persoonia linearis and Telopea speciosissima. The lowest stratum is dominated by Pteridium esculentum, Lomatia silaifolia, Dianella caerulea and Viola hederacea. Sheltered Sandstone Smooth-barked Apple Forest lies at elevations between 400 and 700 metres between Brereton Ridge and McMahons Lookout where annual rainfall is generally 1000-1200 millimetres. This community extends north into the mid to lower Blue Mountains and is extensive in eastern Wollemi National Park. This type relates most closely to Sheltered Sandstone Blue-leaved Stringybark Forest (MU11). However, it is distinct due to its higher frequency of Angophora costata and Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera. This difference may correlate with the higher rainfall found in the northern part of the Special Area.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 25m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 39% SD 8.9 Angophora costata, Eucalyptus piperita, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera Minor associates: Corymbia gummifera, Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus deanei, Eucalyptus notabilis, Eucalyptus oreades Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 11m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 17% SD 13.9 Elaeocarpus reticulatus, Allocasuarina littoralis, Tasmannia insipida Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 26% SD 12.5 Acrotriche divaricata, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Persoonia linearis, Pultenaea scabra, Persoonia mollis, Telopea speciosissima, Acacia obtusifolia, Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium, Pittosporum revolutum, Persoonia levis, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa

32 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 1m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 29% SD 20.1 Lomatia silaifolia, Dianella caerulea, Platysace lanceolata, Pteridium esculentum, Stylidium graminifolium, Patersonia glabrata, Viola hederacea, Calochlaena dubia, Lindsaea microphylla

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Canopy dominated by Smooth-barked Apple (Angophora costata), Sydney Peppermint (Eucalyptus piperita) and Turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera).  Sheltered aspects on Narrabeen Sandstone in the Kings Tableland area.  A shrubby understorey comprising Lance-leaf Beard-heath (Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus), Blueberry Ash (Elaeocarpus reticulatus), Narrow-leaved Geebung (Persoonia linearis), Black Sheoak (Allocasuarina littoralis) and Acacia obtusifolia.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Pearces Mountain Gully and Gogongolly Creek (Kings Tableland)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 2621.32 70.1 Burragorang SCA 923.01 24.7 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 14.72 0.4 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 3559.05 95.1 Total Unreserved 182.15 4.9 Total Area within Warragamba Special 3741.20 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >45000 90 Reserve Total Area of Community >50000 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 2747.81 73.4 B Moderate 990.60 26.5 C Heavy 2.79 0.1 Total 3741.20 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Lissanthe sapida (3RCa)

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 33  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia obtusifolia 2 0.60 2 0.11 positive Acrotriche divaricata 4 1.00 1 0.04 positive Allocasuarina littoralis 4 0.60 2 0.13 positive Angophora costata 4 1.00 4 0.09 positive Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa 2 0.60 2 0.22 positive Billardiera scandens var. scandens 2 0.60 1 0.33 positive Dianella caerulea 2 1.00 2 0.35 positive Eucalyptus piperita 4 1.00 4 0.15 positive Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus 3 1.00 2 0.28 positive Lissanthe sapida 3 0.60 1 0.03 positive Lomatia silaifolia 3 1.00 2 0.26 positive Patersonia glabrata 2 0.60 2 0.11 positive Persoonia linearis 2 0.80 2 0.44 positive Persoonia mollis 4 0.60 2 0.03 positive Platysace lanceolata 2 1.00 2 0.05 positive Pteridium esculentum 2 0.80 2 0.36 positive Pultenaea scabra 3 0.80 2 0.02 positive Stylidium graminifolium 3 0.60 2 0.05 positive Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera 4 1.00 4 0.10 positive Telopea speciosissima 3 0.60 2 0.02 positive Viola hederacea 2 0.60 2 0.24 positive Lomandra longifolia 3 0.40 2 0.55 negative

34 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU11 Sheltered Sandstone Blue-leaved Stringybark Forest

Number of Sites: 26 No. taxa/plot: 49.7

 DESCRIPTION Sheltered Sandstone Blue-leaved Stringybark Forest is extensively distributed across mid to lower slopes in sandstone gullies of the Nattai and Burragorang Tablelands. It is an open forest assemblage with a canopy dominated by Corymbia gummifera, Eucalyptus punctata, E. piperita and E. agglomerata. Sites of greater shelter may include small trees of Acacia elata, Ceratopetalum gummiferum and Allocasuarina torulosa, which occur just below the Eucalypt canopy. The shrub layer is more consistent with species such as Persoonia linearis, Elaeocarpus reticulatus, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Astrotricha latifolia, Xylomelum pyriforme and Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa a common feature. Low shrubs such as Lomatia silaifolia, Gonocarpus teucrioides and Phyllanthus hirtellus grow amongst Pteridium esculentum, Blechnum cartilagineum and Entolasia stricta. Small vines including Smilax glyciphylla and Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana are found at low abundance. Sheltered Sandstone Blue-leaved Stringybark Forest is most frequently recorded at elevations between 200 and 600 metres. It extends outside of the Warragamba Special Area into the Nepean Catchment in areas of similar elevation.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 23.7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 33% SD 9.4 Corymbia gummifera, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus piperita, Eucalyptus agglomerata, Allocasuarina torulosa Minor associates: Angophora costata, Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus deanei, Angophora bakeri, Eucalyptus sieberi, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus globoidea Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 10m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 19% SD 13.5 Elaeocarpus reticulatus, Ceratopetalum gummiferum, Acacia elata

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 35 Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 3.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 20% SD 16.9 Persoonia linearis, Astrotricha latifolia, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Xylomelum pyriforme, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Persoonia levis, Bossiaea spp. (neo-anglica, obcordata, heterophylla), Acacia obtusifolia, Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 1m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 37% SD 23.1 Lomatia silaifolia, Phyllanthus hirtellus, Gonocarpus teucrioides, Pteridium esculentum, Entolasia stricta, Dianella caerulea, Dampiera purpurea, Lepidosperma laterale, Xanthosia pilosa, Blechnum cartilagineum, Billardiera scandens var. scandens, Lomandra longifolia

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:

 Steep sandstone slopes (generally sheltered) of the Nattai and Burragorang Tablelands.  Open forest dominated by Red Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera), Blue-leaved Stringybark (Eucalyptus agglomerata), Sydney Peppermint (E. piperita) and Grey Gum (E. punctata).  Shrubs and small trees such as Narrow-leaved Geebung (Persoonia linearis), Blueberry Ash (Elaeocarpus reticulatus), Lance-leaf Beard-heath (Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus) and Astrotricha latifolia.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Upper slope areas of Wild Goat Plateau and Nattai Tableland; Slopes below Valley colliery No.3 (West Nattai Walls); Upper slopes of Burnt Flat Creek (Roundhill–Mt. Wanganderry)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 445.06 44.1 Burragorang SCA 60.24 6.0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 464.89 46.0 Nattai SCA 24.13 2.4 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 994.32 98.4 Total Unreserved 15.88 1.6 Total Area within Warragamba Special 1010.20 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >10000 66.7 Reserve Total Area of Community >15000 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 850.18 84.2 B Moderate 158.31 15.7 C Heavy 1.71 0.1 Total 1010.20 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Lissanthe sapida (3RCa)

36 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Astrotricha latifolia 2 0.62 2 0.08 positive Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa 2 0.50 2 0.21 positive Blechnum cartilagineum 3 0.58 3 0.10 positive Clematis aristata 2 0.69 2 0.34 positive Corymbia gummifera 4 0.81 4 0.11 positive Dampiera purpurea 2 0.62 2 0.16 positive Dianella caerulea 2 0.73 2 0.34 positive Elaeocarpus reticulatus 2 0.77 1 0.15 positive Entolasia stricta 2 0.77 2 0.35 positive Eucalyptus agglomerata 4 0.62 4 0.13 positive Eucalyptus piperita 4 0.65 4 0.14 positive Eucalyptus punctata 2 0.77 3 0.33 positive Gonocarpus teucrioides 3 0.77 2 0.15 positive Hemigenia cuneifolia 4 0.04 0 0.00 positive Lepidosperma laterale 2 0.62 2 0.25 positive Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus 2 0.62 2 0.27 positive Lomatia silaifolia 2 0.88 2 0.24 positive Melaleuca hypericifolia 2 0.04 0 0.00 positive Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana 2 0.50 2 0.25 positive Persoonia linearis 3 0.92 2 0.43 positive Phyllanthus hirtellus 2 0.85 2 0.27 positive Polycarpaea corymbosa var. minor 3 0.04 0 0.00 positive Pteridium esculentum 3 0.77 2 0.35 positive Smilax glyciphylla 2 0.54 1 0.07 positive Xylomelum pyriforme 2 0.62 2 0.06 positive Zieria arborescens subsp. arborescens 2 0.04 0 0.00 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.42 2 0.55 negative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 37 MU12 Escarpment Mountain Grey Gum Forest

Number of Sites: 7 No. taxa/plot: 47.9

 DESCRIPTION Escarpment Mountain Grey Gum Forest occurs on the slopes beneath the Sandstone escarpments in the Megalong and Kedumba Valleys at elevations above 600 metres. It forms a tall open forest around 25 metres in height. The composition of the canopy is variable with Eucalyptus cypellocarpa the most frequently recorded in association with other species such as E. punctata, Angophora costata, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera, E. piperita and E. eugenioides. The combinations of canopy species appear to vary with altitude, exposure and influence of eroded Triassic Sandstone material. Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera, for example, occur on the eastern fall of the Narrow Neck Peninsula, while Angophora costata is more associated with the intergrade to Triassic Sandstone substrates. A small tree layer may feature Allocasuarina torulosa, Melaleuca styphelioides or M. linariifolia. A shrub layer is generally absent except near drainage lines where Acacia longifolia subsp. longifolia and Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium may occur. The understorey is characterised by ferns such as Calochlaena dubia, Pteridium esculentum and Adiantum aethiopicum amongst a consistent cover of Lomandra longifolia and twiners such as Tylophora barbata, Cissus hypoglauca and Desmodium varians. In gullies or seepage zones, Gahnia melanocarpa and Schoenus melanostachys are prominent. Escarpment Mountain Grey Gum Forest is tied to Permian substrates found around the Wild Dog Mountains, Ruined Castle Ridge and beneath the Narrow Neck Peninsula. It extends north outside of the Special Area, along the escarpment slopes of the Megalong Valley.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 24m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 36% SD 15.0 Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus elata (locally abundant), Angophora costata, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera

38 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 28% SD 24.3 Melaleuca styphelioides (locally abundant), Allocasuarina torulosa Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 5% SD 0 Hibbertia aspera subsp. aspera, Platylobium formosum, Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium, Acacia longifolia subsp. longifolia, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.9m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 39% SD 32.8 Tylophora barbata, Dianella caerulea, Lomandra longifolia, Veronica plebeia, Adiantum aethiopicum, Gahnia melanocarpa, Desmodium varians, Pteridium esculentum, Hibbertia scandens, Smilax australis, Schoenus melanostachys, Calochlaena dubia, Cissus hypoglauca, Schelhammera undulata, Eustrephus latifolius

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Upper Slopes are dominated by Mountain Grey Gum (Eucalyptus cypellocarpa). Lower Slopes and eastern locations will include greater influence of Smooth-barked Apple (Angophora costata), Turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera) and Grey Gum (Eucalyptus punctata).  Understorey dominated by ferns, including Common Ground Fern (Calochlaena dubia) and Bracken (Pteridium esculentum) with Spiny-headed Mat-rush (Lomandra longifolia) and vine species such as Bearded Tylophora (Tylophora barbata) also present.  Soils derived from Permian Sediments (Shale, Siltstone and Sandstone) on escarpment slopes above 600 metres in elevation.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS North eastern slopes off Ruined Castle Ridge; Upper slopes around Narrow Neck

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 1305.24 96.7 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 1305.24 96.7 Total Unreserved 43.93 3.3 Total Area within Warragamba Special 1349.17 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >1305 43.5 Reserve Total Area of Community >3000 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 914.75 67.8 B Moderate 413.41 30.6 C Heavy 21.01 1.6 Total 1349.17 100

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 39  THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Lissanthe sapida (3RCa)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia longifolia subsp. longifolia 3 0.50 2 0.07 positive Adiantum aethiopicum 2 0.88 2 0.22 positive Angophora costata 2 0.63 4 0.09 positive Billardiera scandens var. scandens 2 0.50 1 0.33 positive Calochlaena dubia 4 0.63 3 0.07 positive Carex fascicularis 2 0.13 0 0.00 positive Cissus hypoglauca 2 0.50 2 0.10 positive Desmodium varians 3 0.75 2 0.28 positive Dianella caerulea 2 1.00 2 0.34 positive Dichondra repens 3 0.75 3 0.36 positive Eucalyptus cypellocarpa 4 0.75 2 0.07 positive Eucalyptus punctata 4 0.50 3 0.34 positive Gahnia melanocarpa 4 0.75 1 0.04 positive Galium propinquum 2 0.63 2 0.10 positive Glycine clandestina 3 0.75 2 0.31 positive Gonocarpus tetragynus 3 0.75 2 0.19 positive Hardenbergia violacea 2 0.50 2 0.27 positive Hibbertia aspera subsp. aspera 2 0.63 2 0.11 positive Hibbertia scandens 2 0.75 2 0.05 positive Kennedia rubicunda 2 0.50 1 0.06 positive Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium 2 0.63 2 0.12 positive Libertia paniculata 2 0.63 1 0.05 positive Oplismenus imbecillis 2 0.63 2 0.17 positive Platylobium formosum 2 0.63 2 0.02 positive Pteridium esculentum 3 0.75 2 0.36 positive Schelhammera undulata 2 0.63 2 0.02 positive Schoenus melanostachys 3 0.63 1 0.03 positive Smilax australis 2 0.75 2 0.05 positive Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera 4 0.63 4 0.10 positive Tylophora barbata 3 1.00 2 0.17 positive Veronica plebeia 3 0.88 2 0.20 positive Viola hederacea 3 0.75 2 0.24 positive Lomandra longifolia 3 1.00 2 0.55 constant

40 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU13 Sheltered Escarpment Blue Gum Forest

Number of Sites: 4 No. taxa/plot: 54.5

 DESCRIPTION Sheltered Escarpment Blue Gum Forest is found on protected colluvial slopes beneath the extensive escarpments and walls formed by the Triassic Sandstone Plateaux. The geology comprises Permian Sediments from the Shoalhaven Group. However, these areas are influenced by downslope movement of soil materials derived from the eroding Sandstone cliffs above. Soils are typically infertile and comprised of a loamy sand surface material. Sheltered Escarpment Blue Gum Forest, as the title suggests, is dominated by Eucalyptus deanei. Eucalyptus hypostomatica is also found with this community, as well as similar sheltered escarpment forests found on the Permian sediments. Other tree species include Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera and Eucalyptus punctata. Allocasuarina torulosa is frequently abundant as a small tree layer, sometimes with Pittosporum undulatum, Melaleuca styphelioides and Acacia maidenii. Only a few select species persist in the shrub layer including Clerodendrum tomentosum, Breynia oblongifolia and Pittosporum revolutum. A high vine load is characteristic of many sites, with species such as Cissus hypoglauca, Stephania japonica var. discolor, Smilax australis, Eustrephus latifolius and Geitonoplesium cymosum abundant. The dense ground cover is comprised of ferns, herbs and rushes. Common species include Lomandra longifolia, Adiantum aethiopicum, Dichondra repens, Pratia purpurascens, Oplismenus aemulus and Pteridium esculentum. Sheltered Escarpment Blue Gum Forest occurs directly beneath the escarpment clifflines but is also found lower down slope where sufficient shelter persists. In narrow river valleys, such as the Nattai and Little River valleys, this community can extend to the valley floor. The high degree of shelter found directly beneath escarpment clifflines is the driving force in the occurrence of this community. Map Unit 14 (Escarpment Grey Gum Forest) is closely related to this community although it occurs in less sheltered positions and the vine load is not as pronounced. At higher elevations (generally above 600 metres) these sheltered environments grade into Escarpment Mountain Grey Gum Forest (MU12).

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 31m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 21% SD 10.3 Eucalyptus deanei, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera Minor associates: Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus hypostomatica, Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus piperita, Eucalyptus crebra

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 41 Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 15m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 16% SD 7.5 Allocasuarina torulosa, Pittosporum undulatum, Pittosporum revolutum, Melaleuca styphelioides, Acacia maidenii, Casuarina cunninghamiana subsp. cunninghamiana (valley flat sites only) Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 49% SD 41.1 Lomandra longifolia, Adiantum aethiopicum, Pratia purpurascens, Oplismenus aemulus, Dichondra repens, Pteridium esculentum, Doodia aspera, Pellaea falcata, Echinopogon ovatus, Gahnia melanocarpa, Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei, Dianella caerulea Vines & Climbers: no structural data available Cissus hypoglauca, Stephania japonica var. discolor, Smilax australis, Tylophora barbata, Clematis aristata, Eustrephus latifolius, Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana, Cissus antarctica, Geitonoplesium cymosum, Morinda jasminoides, Aphanopetalum resinosum

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  A tall sheltered forest with an open canopy of Mountain Blue Gum (Eucalyptus deanei) and Forest Oak (Allocasuarina torulosa). Shrub species, such as Clerodendrum tomentosum, are infrequently observed.  A sheltered forest found on colluvial slopes of Permian geology just below the major walls and escarpments of the Sandstone Plateaux.  A dense, sometimes impenetrable layer of vines and climbers including Giant Water Vine (Cissus hypoglauca), Snake Vine (Stephania japonica var. discolor) and Scrambling Lily (Geitonoplesium cymosum). It often also grows into the small tree and canopy layers.  A dense semi-mesic ground cover predominately comprised of ferns such as Common Maidenhair (Adiantum aethiopicum) and Sickle Fern (Pellaea falcata) but also herbs including Kidney Weed (Dichondra repens) and rushes such as Spiny-headed Mat-rush (Lomandra longifolia).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Spring Creek off the Kedumba Walls; Eastern aspect of Korrowall Ridge; Sheltered Slopes leading into Cooba Bay; Burragorang Walls; Narrow Alluvial flats along Little River

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 1593.40 85.7 Burragorang SCA 64.66 3.5 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 71.97 3.9 Nattai SCA 44.22 2.4 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 2.24 0.1 Total Reserved 1776.49 95.5 Total Unreserved 82.82 4.5 Total Area within Warragamba Special 1859.32 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 3000 99 Reserve Total Area of Community >3000 100

42 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 1445.03 77.7 B Moderate 358.13 19.3 C Heavy 56.16 3.0 Total 1859.32 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Parahebe lithophila (2RC-), Eucalyptus hypostomatica (3RC-)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Adiantum aethiopicum 3 1.00 2 0.23 positive Allocasuarina torulosa 4 0.67 3 0.18 positive Breynia oblongifolia 2 1.00 1 0.19 positive Cissus antarctica 2 0.50 2 0.03 positive Cissus hypoglauca 5 1.00 1 0.11 positive Clematis aristata 2 0.67 2 0.33 positive Clerodendrum tomentosum 2 1.00 1 0.08 positive Dichondra repens 4 0.67 3 0.39 positive Doodia aspera 3 0.50 2 0.10 positive Echinopogon ovatus 2 0.50 2 0.21 positive Eucalyptus deanei 5 1.00 4 0.07 positive Eustrephus latifolius 2 0.67 1 0.15 positive Geitonoplesium cymosum 3 1.00 2 0.28 positive Indigofera australis 2 0.50 2 0.18 positive Melaleuca styphelioides 3 0.50 2 0.06 positive Morinda jasminoides 2 0.50 2 0.06 positive Omalanthus populifolius 1 0.17 0 0.00 positive Oplismenus aemulus 5 0.67 2 0.09 positive Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana 2 0.67 2 0.24 positive Pellaea falcata 2 0.50 2 0.14 positive Pittosporum revolutum 2 0.67 1 0.07 positive Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei 2 0.50 2 0.14 positive Pratia purpurascens 2 0.83 2 0.32 positive Pteridium esculentum 2 0.67 2 0.37 positive Rubus moluccanus var. trilobus 2 0.50 1 0.02 positive Smilax australis 3 0.67 2 0.06 positive Stephania japonica var. discolor 3 1.00 2 0.09 positive Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera 2 0.50 4 0.12 positive Tylophora barbata 3 0.67 2 0.17 positive Lomandra longifolia 4 1.00 2 0.57 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 43 MU14 Escarpment Grey Gum Forest

Number of Sites: 35 No. taxa/plot: 55.2

 DESCRIPTION Escarpment Grey Gum Forest is the most widespread sheltered community found on the Permian Sediments. It is mostly associated with deeper colluvial soils on escarpment midslopes and benches on southern and eastern aspects. This community is generally found at elevations between 200 and 450 metres above sea level. Sheltered escarpment slopes in the Burragorang, Kedumba and Nattai Valleys form the core of its distribution. Escarpment Grey Gum Forest is a tall forest with a canopy dominated by Eucalyptus punctata and Allocasuarina torulosa. Eucalyptus tereticornis, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera and E. deanei also occur, but are less frequent. One or more box species (Eucalyptus hypostomatica, E. bosistoana or E. moluccana) may occasionally be present. The understorey is typically a relatively sparse shrub layer comprised of Breynia oblongifolia, Olearia viscidula, Indigofera australis and Clerodendrum tomentosum. The retention of soil moisture provides for a typically dense cover of herbaceous species mixed with low growing vines and grasses. Common ground cover species include Dichondra repens, Desmodium varians, Pratia purpurascens, Plectranthus parviflorus, Tylophora barbata, Glycine clandestina, Oplismenus imbecillis, Adiantum aethiopicum, Microlaena stipoides and Lomandra longifolia.

This community grades into Sheltered Escarpment Blue Gum Forest (MU13) in areas afforded greater shelter (such as directly beneath escarpment clifflines). Tree heights are generally taller although the understorey retains a similarly open structure and closely related species composition. Escarpment Grey Gum Forest, however, is slightly drier, with grass species more dominant and vine species not as invasive. As soil depth decreases and the aspect becomes more exposed, Escarpment Slopes Dry Ironbark Woodland (MU48) becomes increasingly prevalent. Distribution of this community outside of the catchment is not well understood. It is unlikely to be extensive elsewhere as available knowledge (NPWS, 2000a) point to different plant community occurring in deep gorges and escarpment slopes of the Shoalhaven and Wingecarribee Catchments.

44 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 28m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 30% SD 13.1 Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus deanei Minor associates: Eucalyptus fibrosa, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera, Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus crebra, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus hypostomatica, Eucalyptus moluccana Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 13m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 15% SD 12.9 Allocasuarina torulosa, Melaleuca styphelioides, Backhousia myrtifolia Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 7% SD 5.1 Breynia oblongifolia, Olearia viscidula, Indigofera australis, Clerodendrum tomentosum, Persoonia linearis, Notelaea longifolia forma longifolia Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 40% SD 25.6 Dichondra repens, Desmodium varians, Pratia purpurascens, Plectranthus parviflorus, Tylophora barbata, Glycine clandestina, Oplismenus imbecillis, Adiantum aethiopicum, Microlaena stipoides, Lomandra longifolia, Pseuderanthemum variabile, Dianella caerulea, Geitonoplesium cymosum, Billardiera scandens var. scandens, Eustrephus latifolius.

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  The abundance of Forest Oak (Allocasuarina torulsa) in combination with Grey Gum (Eucalyptus punctata) is particularly indicative of this community.  Well developed cover of herbs and grasses on moderately deep and damp Permian sediments and Sandstone colluvium. Further to this, the tall canopy provides reasonable cover and contrasts to the low open canopy of exposed escarpment woodlands.  This community tends to occupy sheltered colluvial midslopes locations in preference to upper escarpment slopes or lower slopes/valley flats.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Sheltered slopes off Broken Rock Range; Bimlow Walls near Bellbird Point; Lacys Creek; Tonalli Walls; Nattai Walls; Wanganderry Walls; Sheehys Creek; Burragorang Walls

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 12784.81 69.7 Burragorang SCA 1273.89 6.9 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 2268.40 12.4 Nattai SCA 825.31 4.5 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 807.07 4.4 Total Reserved 17959.48 97.9 Total Unreserved 381.68 2.1 Total Area within Warragamba Special 18341.16 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >19500 >97.5 Reserve Total Area of Community >20000 100

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 45 CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 14224.70 77.6 B Moderate 3428.09 18.7 C Heavy 688.37 3.7 Total 18341.16 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Gyrostemon thesioides (E1), Eucalyptus benthamii (V), Euphrasia bowdeniae (V), Eucalyptus hypostomatica (3RC-), Lissanthe sapida (3RCa), Lomandra fluviatilis (3RCa)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Adiantum aethiopicum 2 0.61 2 0.21 positive Allocasuarina torulosa 3 0.85 3 0.15 positive Billardiera scandens var. scandens 2 0.51 1 0.32 positive Breynia oblongifolia 2 0.59 1 0.17 positive Cayratia clematidea 2 0.51 2 0.06 positive Cissus hypoglauca 2 0.56 2 0.08 positive Clerodendrum tomentosum 2 0.61 1 0.06 positive Desmodium varians 2 0.80 2 0.26 positive Dianella caerulea 2 0.83 2 0.33 positive Dichondra repens 3 0.76 2 0.35 positive Doodia aspera 2 0.51 2 0.09 positive Entolasia marginata 2 0.51 2 0.08 positive Eucalyptus punctata 4 0.65 3 0.33 positive Eustrephus latifolius 2 0.51 1 0.14 positive Geitonoplesium cymosum 2 0.83 2 0.27 positive Glycine clandestina 2 0.76 2 0.29 positive Hardenbergia violacea 2 0.59 1 0.26 positive Indigofera australis 2 0.56 2 0.18 positive Lepidosperma laterale 2 0.56 2 0.25 positive Lomandra fluviatilis 3 0.05 0 0.00 positive Microlaena stipoides 3 0.73 2 0.35 positive Olearia viscidula 2 0.63 2 0.31 positive Oplismenus imbecillis 3 0.66 2 0.16 positive Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana 2 0.56 2 0.25 positive Plectranthus parviflorus 2 0.76 2 0.15 positive Pratia purpurascens 2 0.66 2 0.32 positive Rubus parvifolius 2 0.54 2 0.11 positive Stephania japonica var. discolor 2 0.56 2 0.08 positive Tylophora barbata 3 0.80 2 0.15 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.76 2 0.54 constant

46 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU15 Highlands Gorge River Peppermint Forest

Number of Sites: 11 No. taxa/plot: 59.7

 DESCRIPTION Highlands Gorge River Peppermint Forest occurs on sheltered slopes and along minor gullies of the Wingecarribee Gorges, Bindook Highlands and Murruin Creek Catchment. It is a tall forest dominated by Eucalyptus elata and co-occurs with E. viminalis, E. punctata, E. cypellocarpa and E. radiata subsp. radiata. Eucalyptus smithii is also featured around the heads of gullies on upper slopes. The understorey is very herbaceous with a diversity of herbs, ferns and grasses such as Lomandra longifolia, Microlaeana stipoides, Echinopogon ovatus, Dichondra repens, Pteridium esculentum, Veronica plebeia and Adiantum aethiopicum. Midstorey shrubs are less abundant and diverse but most frequently include Cassinia aculeata, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Lissanthe strigosa and Olearia viscidula. In the most protected situations the understorey can become predominantly ferny with Calochlaena dubia, Stellaria spp., Gleichenia microphylla and Blechnum nudum frequent along creeks. Coprosma quadrifida may also develop in the shrub layer. Highlands Gorge River Peppermint Forest occurs on Permian sediments of both the Illawarra Coal Measures and Berry Formations and Devonian quartzites and porphyries. NPWS (2000a) suggests that similar communities (Forest Ecosystem 181) are restricted to the Wingecarribee Area.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 29m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 33% SD 12.8 Eucalyptus elata, Eucalyptus viminalis Minor associates: Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata, Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Eucalyptus smithii, Eucalyptus blaxlandii, Eucalyptus bridgesiana, Eucalyptus cinerea, Eucalyptus dives, Eucalyptus globoidea, Eucalyptus macrorhyncha, Eucalyptus mannifera subsp. mannifera, Eucalyptus piperita Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 5.3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 16% SD 13.9 Olearia viscidula, Cassinia aculeata, Persoonia linearis, Indigofera australis, Coprosma quadrifida, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 47 Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 45% SD 27.5 Lomandra longifolia, Billardiera scandens, Microlaena stipoides, Dichondra repens, Echinopogon ovatus, Pteridium esculentum, Senecio linearifolius, Wahlenbergia gracilis, Veronica plebeia, Viola hederacea, Dianella caerulea, Galium propinquum, Desmodium varians, Adiantum aethiopicum, Euchiton gymnocephalus, Clematis aristata

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Tall canopy of River Peppermint (Eucalyptus elata) sometimes with Ribbon Gum (E. viminalis) or Mountain Grey Gum (E. cypellocarpa).  A damp soil layer providing moisture for an abundance of herbs and grasses on the forest floor. Species include Kidney Weed (Dichondra repens), Slender Tick-trefoil (Desmodium varians) and Microlaena stipoides.  Occurrence in gullies and sheltered damp positions on Permian siltstones and shales of the Wingecarribee gorges.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Gullies of the Deep Creek catchment (Wingecarribee River)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 475.35 49.8 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 105.18 5.9 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 2.8 Nattai NP 8.35 17.4 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 1.50 0.1 Yerranderie SCA 10.25 0.6 Total Reserved 600.63 76.6 Total Unreserved 383.15 23.4 Total Area within Warragamba Special 983.78 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 601 8.4 Reserve Total Area of Community 7181 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 459.46 46.7 B Moderate 247.35 25.1 C Heavy 276.97 28.2 Total 983.78 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

48 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Adiantum aethiopicum 3 0.64 2 0.23 positive Asplenium flabellifolium 2 0.55 2 0.20 positive Billardiera scandens 2 0.91 1 0.04 positive Cassinia aculeata 2 0.55 1 0.05 positive Clematis aristata 3 0.64 2 0.32 positive Corybas pruinosus 3 0.09 0 0.00 positive Desmodium varians 4 0.55 2 0.29 positive Dichondra repens 3 0.82 3 0.38 positive Echinopogon ovatus 2 0.73 2 0.20 positive Eriochilus autumnalis 2 0.09 0 0.00 positive Eucalyptus elata 4 0.82 4 0.03 positive Euchiton gymnocephalus 2 0.73 2 0.05 positive Glycine clandestina 2 0.55 2 0.32 positive Gonocarpus elatus 1 0.09 0 0.00 positive Helichrysum scorpioides 3 0.55 2 0.14 positive Microlaena stipoides 3 0.82 2 0.40 positive Olearia viscidula 4 0.64 2 0.33 positive Oxalis perennans 2 0.55 2 0.15 positive Plantago debilis 3 0.64 2 0.18 positive Poranthera microphylla 2 0.64 2 0.19 positive Pteridium esculentum 3 0.91 2 0.37 positive Ranunculus collinus 1 0.09 0 0.00 positive Senecio bipinnatisectus 1 0.18 0 0.00 positive Senecio linearifolius 3 0.73 1 0.07 positive Veronica plebeia 2 0.73 2 0.23 positive Wahlenbergia gracilis 2 0.82 1 0.16 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.91 2 0.57 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 49 MU16 Bindook Highlands Open Forest

Number of Sites: 6 No. taxa/plot: 40.5

 DESCRIPTION Bindook Highlands Open Forest occurs on moderately deep soils derived from quartz porphyry geology at elevations between 600 to 900 metres above sea level on the Bindook Highlands. The forest is tall (mean upper height of 26 metres) with an open canopy and a sparse shrub layer. No single Eucalypt species dominates the community although species from the stringybark and grey gum groups are most characteristic. Eucalyptus muelleriana is unique to this community in the Special Area, and depending on elevation a number of other stringybark species may also be encountered including E. agglomerata, E. eugenioides and E. blaxlandii. Similarly Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata, E. cypellocarpa and E. punctata respond to elevational gradients. A very sparse small tree layer of Wattle species such as Acacia parramattensis and A. falciformis are occasionally present above lower shrubs including Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus and Olearia viscidula. The dense ground cover consistently includes a combination of herbs and forbs such as Lomandra longifolia, Dichondra repens, Microlaena stipoides, Pteridium esculentum, Viola hederacea and Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana. The extent of this community beyond the Special Area is not well known. While the characteristic species that dominate the understorey are common to exposed locations on richer soils found on the southern highlands the combinations of tree species and shrub species may be restricted to the higher elevation Porphyry soils. Grazing, hobby farming and frequent burning may contribute to the persistence of a simplified and open understorey associated with this community.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 26m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 24% SD 9.1 Eucalyptus elata, Eucalyptus muelleriana, Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata, Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Eucalyptus fastigata, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana, Eucalyptus viminalis Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 13.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 19% SD 15.3 Olearia viscidula, Acacia parramattensis, Acacia falciformis, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 1m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 61% SD 24.6 Microlaena stipoides, Lomandra longifolia, Dichondra repens, Viola hederacea, Pteridium esculentum, Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana, Poranthera microphylla, Billardiera scandens var. scandens, Clematis aristata

50 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Combinations of Stringybarks (Eucalyptus muelleriana, E. eugenioides, E. blaxlandii), Grey Gums (E. punctata, E. cypellocarpa) with River (E. elata) and Narrow-leaved Peppermints (E. radiata subsp. radiata).  An open understorey with a prominent ground cover of grasses (Microlaena stipoides, Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana), Spiny-headed Mat-rush (Lomandra longifolia), herbs (Dichondra repens, Viola hederacea) and Bracken (Pteridium esculentum).  Deeper soils on gentle slopes on the Bindook Highlands between 600 and 900 metres in elevation.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Bullnigang Heights, Slopes between Tomat Creek and Nyanga Mountain (Bindook Highlands)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 960.08 82.4 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 960.08 82.4 Total Unreserved 204.39 17.6 Total Area within Warragamba Special 1164.47 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 960 82.4 Reserve Total Area of Community 1164 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 625.30 53.7 B Moderate 536.14 46.0 C Heavy 3.03 0.3 Total 1164.47 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 51  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia falciformis 4 0.50 2 0.18 positive Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides 2 0.50 2 0.16 positive Cymbonotus lawsonianus 3 0.67 1 0.02 positive Desmodium varians 2 0.67 2 0.28 positive Dichondra repens 3 1.00 3 0.36 positive Echinopogon ovatus 3 0.83 2 0.18 positive Entolasia stricta 2 0.67 2 0.35 positive Eucalyptus muelleriana 5 0.33 0 0.00 positive Galium propinquum 3 0.67 2 0.10 positive Geranium solanderi var. solanderi 3 0.67 2 0.12 positive Glycine microphylla 2 0.50 2 0.12 positive Gonocarpus tetragynus 3 0.50 2 0.19 positive Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea 2 0.83 2 0.26 positive Hydrocotyle laxiflora 3 0.83 2 0.20 positive Lomandra filiformis subsp. coriacea 3 0.50 2 0.15 positive Microlaena stipoides 4 1.00 2 0.36 positive Olearia viscidula 2 0.83 2 0.32 positive Oxalis perennans 2 0.83 2 0.13 positive Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana 4 0.67 2 0.19 positive Poranthera microphylla 2 1.00 2 0.18 positive Pratia purpurascens 3 1.00 2 0.33 positive Pteridium esculentum 3 1.00 2 0.36 positive Pterostylis pedunculata 2 0.67 1 0.01 positive Senecio species E 2 0.67 1 0.10 positive Viola betonicifolia 3 0.50 2 0.08 positive Viola hederacea 3 1.00 2 0.23 positive Wahlenbergia stricta subsp. stricta 2 0.67 2 0.09 positive Lomandra longifolia 3 1.00 2 0.55 constant

52 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU17 Yerranderie White-topped Box Forest

Number of Sites: 4 No. taxa/plot: 44.0

 DESCRIPTION Yerranderie White-topped Box Forest is a herbaceous open forest found between Yerranderie and the Bindook Highlands. It occurs between residual Permian Sandstone outcrops and appears to indicate the transition between Permian sediments and Bindook Quartz Porphyry substrates. It grows in sheltered saddles to form a moderately tall forest comprising Eucalyptus tereticornis, E. agglomerata, E. quadrangulata and E. punctata. The understorey is generally open with a low, moderately dense cover of Olearia viscidula and Stypandra glauca, with scattered Acacia parramattensis. The lowest stratum forms the most abundant and diverse layer with a collection of grasses, twiners and herbs such as Dichelachne rara, Entolasia stricta, Poranthera microphylla, Glycine clandestine, Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi, Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides, Lomandra longifolia and Pratia purpurascens. Yerranderie White-topped Box Forest forms an interesting variant to similar open forests found on the Bindook Highlands. Similar communities have not been described elsewhere in the Sydney Basin Bioregion, and the elevation and distance from the coast is unusual for Eucalyptus quadrangulata.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 26m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 20% SD 4.1 Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus quadrangulata, Eucalyptus punctata Minor associates: Eucalyptus crebra, Eucalyptus elata Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 11m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 10% SD 7.1 Acacia parramattensis, Acacia falciformis Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 10% SD 0 Olearia viscidula, Sigesbeckia orientalis subsp. orientalis, Stypandra glauca, Solanum pungetium Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 55% SD 43.8 Dichelachne rara, Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi, Entolasia stricta, Glycine clandestine, Lomandra longifolia, Poranthera microphylla, Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides, Pratia purpurascens, Dichondra species A, Desmodium varians, Echinopogon ovatus, Hydrocotyle laxiflora, Tylophora barbata

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 53  KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  The presence of White-topped Box (Eucalyptus quadrangulata) in the Yerranderie area is a unique identifier for this community, occurring with Forest Red Gum (E. tereticornis), Blue-leaved Stringybark (E. agglomerata) and Grey Gum (E. punctata).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS On the saddle between The Peaks and Southern Peak (Bindook Highlands)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 248.69 59.3 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 138.21 32.9 Total Reserved 386.90 92.2 Total Unreserved 32.56 7.8 Total Area within Warragamba Special 419.46 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 387 92.2 Reserve Total Area of Community 419 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 74.18 17.7 B Moderate 281.69 67.2 C Heavy 63.59 15.2 Total 419.46 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia parramattensis 3 0.50 2 0.13 positive Aristida vagans 2 0.50 2 0.14 positive Austrodanthonia fulva 2 0.50 3 0.04 positive Brachyscome angustifolia var. angustifolia 2 0.50 2 0.11 positive Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 2 1.00 2 0.23 positive Desmodium varians 2 0.75 2 0.29 positive Dichelachne rara 4 1.00 2 0.02 positive

54 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Dichondra repens 2 0.50 3 0.39 positive Dichondra species A 3 0.75 3 0.01 positive Echinopogon ovatus 2 0.75 2 0.21 positive Entolasia stricta 2 1.00 2 0.41 positive Eucalyptus quadrangulata 4 0.50 3 0.00 positive Eucalyptus tereticornis 4 0.75 4 0.17 positive Euchiton gymnocephalus 2 0.50 2 0.06 positive Galium propinquum 2 0.50 2 0.12 positive Glycine clandestina 2 1.00 2 0.32 positive Glycine microphylla 3 0.50 2 0.14 positive Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea 3 0.50 2 0.27 positive Hydrocotyle laxiflora 2 0.75 2 0.21 positive Olearia viscidula 4 1.00 2 0.33 positive Panicum effusum 2 0.50 2 0.04 positive Plantago debilis 2 0.50 2 0.18 positive Plectranthus parviflorus 2 0.50 2 0.16 positive Poranthera microphylla 2 1.00 2 0.19 positive Stypandra glauca 4 0.75 3 0.19 positive Wahlenbergia gracilis 2 0.50 1 0.16 positive Wahlenbergia stricta subsp. stricta 2 0.50 2 0.10 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 1.00 2 0.57 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 55 MU18 Sheltered Porphyry Forest

Number of Sites: 18 No. taxa/plot: 54

 DESCRIPTION Sheltered Porphyry Forest occurs on the steep protected slopes of the Wollondilly Valley and on gentle slopes and gullies of the Bindook Highlands. The forest is moderately tall reaching a maximum height of 30 metres. The Eucalypt canopy is particularly diverse with Eucalyptus punctata the most frequently recorded species. Fine scale patterns in dominant tree species within this community appear to respond to minor changes in elevation, soil depth and degree of shelter. On the southern eastern edges of the Bindook Highlands before the descent into the Wollondilly Valley, across saddles and upper slopes Eucalyptus tereticornis, E. punctata, E. bosistoana and E. blaxlandii are the most prominent. Beneath these areas the steep colluvial and slightly drier mid to upper slopes of the Wollondilly Valley Eucalyptus cypellocarpa co-occurs with E. punctata, E. eugenioides and E. agglomerata. As the slopes grade into gully and drainage lines Eucalyptus viminalis, E. cypellocarpa and dense stands of E. elata are often dominant. However, despite these variations in Eucalypt species the understorey supports a more consistent composition of dominant species. Small trees such as Acacia falciformis are patchy and are more common in drainage lines growing in combination with Melaleuca styphelioides. Olearia viscidula, however, is consistently found amongst other low growing shrubs. The ground cover forms a consistent mix of herbs, scramblers, grasses and rushes such as Lomandra longifolia, Glycine clandestina, Pratia purpurascens, Geitonoplesium cymosum, Desmodium varians, Dichondra repens, Echinopogon ovatus, Microlaena stipoides, Dianella caerulea, Pteridium esculentum, Viola hederacea and Solanum pungetium. The composition of the ground cover reflects the moderately fertile clay loams that are derived from the Porphyry substrate. Elevation varies between 400 and 800 metres and supports cool winter temperatures and low to moderate rainfall (less than 800 millimetres per year). Sheltered Porphyry Forest extends south outside of the Special Area toward Bannaby. This vegetation community is not well described elsewhere and it is likely that it does not extend beyond the Devonian Porphyry found around the Wollondilly and Wingecarribee Catchments.

56 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 23m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 23% SD 9 Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus elata, Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus viminalis, Eucalyptus bosistoana Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 9m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 9% SD 9 Acacia falciformis, Melaleuca styphelioides Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 17% SD 19 Olearia viscidula, Indigofera australis, Stellaria flaccida, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 55% SD 29 Lomandra longifolia, Glycine clandestina, Pratia purpurascens, Geitonoplesium cymosum, Desmodium varians, Dichondra repens, Echinopogon ovatus, Microlaena stipoides, Dianella caerulea, Pteridium esculentum, Viola hederacea, Solanum pungetium

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Sheltered slopes and gullies on Devonian Porphyry of the Bindook Highlands and Wollondilly Valley.  A dense ground cover that commonly includes Spiny-headed Mat-rush (Lomandra longifolia), Whiteroot (Pratia purpurascens), Scrambling Lily (Geitonoplesium cymosum), Slender Tick Trefoil (Desmodium varians) and Kidney Weed (Dichondra repens).  Wallaby Weed (Olearia viscidula) occurs frequently as a low shrub.  A variable eucalypt cover depending on topographic position. Upper slopes and Gorge Heads feature Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis), Coastal Grey Box (E. bosistoana) and Grey Gum (E. punctata). Mid slopes commonly feature Grey Gum, Mountain Grey Gum (Eucalyptus cypellocarpa) and Stringybarks (E. agglomerata and E. eugenioides). Gullies and protected lower slopes include Ribbon Gum (Eucalyptus viminalis) and River Peppermint (E. elata).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Upper slopes of Shawnys Creek, just east of Murruin Creek; New Yards Hill (SE Bindook Highlands); Slopes under Myanga Mountain (Bindook Highlands); Saddles and fringing ridges of the Bindook highlands

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 57  CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 4949.79 67.7 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 181.92 2.5 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 2.96 0.0 Yerranderie SCA 63.63 0.9 Total Reserved 5198.30 71.1 Total Unreserved 2113.28 28.9 Total Area within Warragamba Special 7311.58 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 5198 71 Reserve Total Area of Community >7300 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 3967.22 54.3 B Moderate 2227.36 30.4 C Heavy 1117.00 15.3 Total 7311.58 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Parahebe lithophila (2RCa)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia falciformis 4 0.50 2 0.17 positive Adiantum aethiopicum 3 0.58 2 0.21 positive Asplenium flabellifolium 2 0.58 2 0.21 positive Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 2 0.58 2 0.25 positive Desmodium varians 2 0.77 2 0.27 positive Dianella caerulea 2 0.65 2 0.34 positive Dichondra repens 3 0.69 3 0.36 positive Echinopogon ovatus 2 0.69 2 0.17 positive Endiandra sieberi 1 0.04 0 0.00 positive Festuca asperula 2 0.04 0 0.00 positive Galium propinquum 2 0.50 2 0.09 positive Geitonoplesium cymosum 2 0.81 2 0.28 positive Glycine clandestina 2 0.92 2 0.29 positive Hydrocotyle laxiflora 3 0.50 2 0.20 positive Microlaena stipoides 3 0.65 2 0.36 positive Olearia viscidula 3 0.88 2 0.31 positive Oplismenus imbecillis 3 0.54 2 0.17 positive Plantago debilis 2 0.54 2 0.14 positive

58 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Polystichum formosum 3 0.04 0 0.00 positive Pteridium esculentum 2 0.65 2 0.35 positive Senecio linearifolius 2 0.54 2 0.08 positive Tylophora barbata 3 0.50 2 0.17 positive Veronica plebeia 2 0.50 2 0.19 positive Viola hederacea 2 0.62 2 0.23 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 1.00 2 0.54 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 59 MU19 Wanganderry Tall Open Forest

Number of Sites: 4 No. taxa/plot: 52.3

 DESCRIPTION Mt. Wanganderry is an isolated cap of rich basalt soil situated in the far south of the Special Area. Almost all of the native vegetation cover has been cleared from this area with remnant vegetation remaining in small heavily disturbed patches. A tall open grassy forest would have once covered the basalt cap with species such as Eucalyptus bosistoana, E. tereticornis and E. blaxlandii occupying slopes and crests and E. viminalis dominant along drainage lines. The ground cover remains a diverse combination of grasses such as Microlaena stipoides, Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei, P. meionectes and Austrostipa rudis subsp. nervosa and herbs including Dichondra repens and Stellaria pungens. The shrub layer is generally sparse to absent though may include Hymenanthera dentata and Acacia melanoxylon. Mt. Wanganderry is situated at around 800 metres in elevation with a cool climate and moderate annual rainfall. The combination of these factors underpin a vegetation community that is closely associated with open grassy woodlands found across the southern highlands and tablelands. It is also typical of these communities that clearing for agricultural purposes has depleted much of their original distribution, with remaining areas poorly represented within the reserve system. Clearing and grazing remain continuing threats.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 28m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 30% SD 4.1 Eucalyptus blaxlandii, Eucalyptus viminalis, Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata, Eucalyptus bosistoana, Eucalyptus deanei Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 7% SD 7.2 Acacia melanoxylon Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 5% SD 0 Hymenanthera dentata

60 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 90% SD 4.1 Microlaena stipoides, Acaena novae-zelandiae, Dichondra repens, Echinopogon ovatus, Stellaria pungens, Carex inversa, Adiantum aethiopicum, Pteridium esculentum, Geranium solanderi var. solanderi, Austrodanthonia racemosa var. racemosa, Hydrocotyle laxiflora, Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Basalt caps and shale soil at Mt. Wanganderry.  Dominant canopy species of Brown Stringybark (Eucalyptus blaxlandii), Forest Red Gum (E. tereticornis), Coast Grey Box (E. bosistoana), Ribbon Gum (E. viminalis), or Narrow-leaved Peppermint (E. radiata subsp. radiata).  A grassy and herbaceous understorey.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Mt. Wanganderry

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT Forms a component of the Southern Highlands Shale Woodland, an Endangered Ecological Community listed under the Threatened Species Act (1995). RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0 0 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 0 0 Total Unreserved 9.88 100 Total Area within Warragamba Special 9.88 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 0 0 Reserve Total Area of Community 8769 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 0 0 B Moderate 0 0 C Heavy 9.88 100 Total 9.88 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 61  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acaena novae-zelandiae 3 1.00 2 0.06 positive Adiantum aethiopicum 3 0.75 2 0.22 positive Austrodanthonia racemosa var. racemosa 2 0.75 2 0.06 positive Austrostipa rudis subsp. nervosa 2 0.75 2 0.04 positive Carex appressa 2 0.50 2 0.03 positive Carex inversa 2 0.50 2 0.03 positive Daucus glochidiatus 2 0.50 2 0.04 positive Dichelachne inaequiglumis 3 0.50 2 0.03 positive Dichondra repens 3 1.00 3 0.36 positive Echinopogon ovatus 2 1.00 2 0.18 positive Eucalyptus blaxlandii 4 1.00 3 0.06 positive Eucalyptus tereticornis 2 0.50 4 0.14 positive Eucalyptus viminalis 4 0.50 3 0.02 positive Euchiton gymnocephalus 3 0.50 2 0.05 positive Galium propinquum 2 0.50 2 0.10 positive Geitonoplesium cymosum 2 0.50 2 0.29 positive Geranium solanderi var. solanderi 3 0.75 2 0.12 positive Glycine microphylla 3 0.50 2 0.12 positive Helichrysum scorpioides 3 0.50 2 0.11 positive Hydrocotyle laxiflora 2 0.75 2 0.20 positive Hymenanthera dentata 4 0.50 2 0.09 positive Hypericum gramineum 2 0.50 2 0.14 positive Lepidosperma elatius 3 0.50 2 0.00 positive Microlaena stipoides 6 1.00 2 0.36 positive Oxalis perennans 2 0.50 2 0.13 positive Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei 2 0.75 2 0.14 positive Poa meionectes 4 0.50 2 0.03 positive Pratia purpurascens 2 0.75 2 0.33 positive Pteridium esculentum 4 0.75 2 0.36 positive Ranunculus lappaceus 2 0.75 2 0.02 positive Rubus parvifolius 2 0.75 2 0.12 positive Solanum opacum 3 0.50 1 0.01 positive Stellaria pungens 2 1.00 2 0.13 positive Viola betonicifolia 2 0.50 2 0.08 positive Wahlenbergia stricta subsp. stricta 2 1.00 2 0.09 positive Lomandra longifolia 4 0.50 2 0.55 constant

62 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU20 Montane Sheltered Narrow-leaved Peppermint Forest

Number of Sites: 9 No. taxa/plot: 39.0

 DESCRIPTION Montane Sheltered Narrow-leaved Peppermint Forest occurs across the high elevation western ranges of the Warragamba Special Area. It is most common in the deeply dissected country, on the metamorphosed sediments found along the eastern fall of the Great Dividing Range. It is a tall open, grassy forest, which often occurs on sheltered slopes around gully heads and in minor drainage lines. Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata and E. dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana are the dominant tree species. Eucalyptus fastigata features as an associate species on lower or more protected slopes. It typically has a very open understorey. An array of herbs and grasses are found in the lower stratum, the most frequent include Pteridium esculentum, Viola hederacea, Stellaria pungens, Lomandra longifolia, Gonocarpus tetragynus, Luzula flaccida, Clematis aristata and Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana. The shrub and small tree layer is generally sparse with Acacia melanoxylon or A. falciformis being found in the latter at low abundance. Shrubs are similarly scattered with the most common being Poranthera microphylla, Helichrysum scorpioides, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus and Lomatia myricoides. Montane Sheltered Narrow-leaved Peppermint Forest is widely distributed across the Oberon and Kanangra Plateaux at elevations between 700 and 1200 metres. A closely related ecosystem (Forest Ecosystem 67) is described by NPWS (2000a), where it suggests that a significant proportion of its extant distribution is held within the current reserve system. This is likely to include Kanangra-Boyd and southern Blue Mountains National Parks. Logging operations and clearing for pine plantations are likely to remain threats to areas outside of the reserve system.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 26.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 29% SD 4.9 Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata, Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana, Eucalyptus fastigata Minor associates: Eucalyptus blaxlandii, Eucalyptus obliqua, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus viminalis, Eucalyptus sieberi, Eucalyptus macrorhyncha, Eucalyptus dives, Eucalyptus mannifera subsp. mannifera, Eucalyptus pauciflora

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 63 Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 9% SD 11.3 Acacia falciformis, Acacia melanoxylon Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 3.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 12% SD 11.9 Poranthera microphylla, Helichrysum scorpioides, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 50% SD 17.5 Pteridium esculentum, Viola hederacea, Stellaria pungens, Lomatia myricoides, Lomandra longifolia, Gonocarpus tetragynus, Luzula flaccida, Clematis aristata, Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana, Geranium solanderi var. solanderi, Asperula conferta, Dianella tasmanica

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Open forest with canopy dominated by Narrow-leaved Peppermint (Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata) and Mountain Gum (E. dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana). Brown Barrel (E. fastigata) is less frequent.  Gullies and moderately sheltered slopes on soils derived from metamorphic sediments found on the Oberon and Kanangra Plateaux.  Generally an open understorey that features a combination of low growing herbs including Prickly Starwort (Stellaria pungens), Ivy-leaved Violet (Viola hederacea) and Bracken (Pteridium esculentum) with small clumps of Tussock (Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana) and Spiny-headed Mat-rush (Lomandra longifolia).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Upper slopes of Moorara Mountain (Moorara range); Upper reaches of Murruin Creek

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 831.68 64.0 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 450.75 34.7 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 1282.43 98.7 Total Unreserved 16.98 1.3 Total Area within Warragamba Special 1299.41 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 19099 53.1 Reserve Total Area of Community 35935 100

64 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 1005.30 77.4 B Moderate 220.83 17.0 C Heavy 73.28 5.6 Total 1299.41 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia falciformis 2 0.54 1 0.03 positive Acacia genistifolia 1 0.04 0 0.00 positive Caladenia dimorpha 2 0.04 0 0.00 positive Clematis aristata 2 0.63 2 0.34 positive Cotula alpina 2 0.21 0 0.00 positive Dianella tasmanica 2 0.54 2 0.07 positive Dipodium punctatum 1 0.04 0 0.00 positive Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana 3 0.71 3 0.07 positive Eucalyptus fastigata 3 0.54 3 0.05 positive Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata 4 0.79 3 0.09 positive Euphrasia collina subsp. paludosa 1 0.04 0 0.00 positive Gonocarpus tetragynus 2 0.75 2 0.18 positive Helichrysum adenophorum var. waddelliae 1 0.04 0 0.00 positive Helichrysum scorpioides 2 0.71 2 0.10 positive Lagenifera stipitata 2 0.50 2 0.09 positive Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus 2 0.67 2 0.27 positive Lomatia myricoides 2 0.63 2 0.06 positive Luzula flaccida 2 0.71 1 0.06 positive Olearia myrsinoides 1 0.04 0 0.00 positive Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana 2 0.63 2 0.18 positive Poranthera microphylla 2 0.75 2 0.17 positive Pteridium esculentum 2 0.92 2 0.35 positive Stellaria pungens 2 0.83 2 0.12 positive Viola hederacea 2 0.92 2 0.22 positive Lomandra longifolia 3 0.79 2 0.54 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 65 MU21 Kanangra Gorge Sheltered Grey Gum Forest

Number of Sites: 22 No. taxa/plot: 56.2

 DESCRIPTION Kanangra Gorge Sheltered Grey Gum Forest is a tall open forest typified by Eucalyptus punctata and Allocasuarina torulosa. It has an open shrubby understorey and a mix of grasses and moisture loving herbs amongst the ground cover. It occurs extensively on sheltered aspects on slopes of the main river valleys in the Kanangra area. This includes the Jenolan, Coxs and Kowmung Rivers as well as some of the larger tributaries. It is also distributed on some of the flatter areas of the Scotts Main Range, north from the New Yards area. Soils are generally derived from Devonian Quartzite of the Lambie Group with some areas also being influenced by eroding Permian sediments. The soil is generally a poorly developed mix of rocky, sandy clay loam material that is sometimes prone to erosion on steep slopes. While Eucalyptus punctata is widespread throughout this community several other tree species are found in the canopy layer depending on location. Eucalyptus eugenioides, E. crebra and E. tereticornis may also occur. Near heads of gullies sometimes down slope from shale outcropping, Eucalyptus bosistoana can be common. In areas influenced by the presence of nearby Permian sediments, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera can be prominent. Allocasuarina torulosa is consistently present as a small tree below the canopy. An open shrub layer invariably includes Breynia oblongifolia, Indigofera australis, Olearia viscidula, Bursaria spinosa and Persoonia linearis. Small succulent herbs and ferns such as Pratia purpurascens, Dichondra repens, Adiantum aethiopicum, Plantago debilis and Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi are common along with the grasses Echinopogon ovatus, Microlaena stipoides and Oplismenus imbecillis.

The Special Area and adjoining reserves encompass most of the distribution of this community in the Bioregion. Small areas occur on private land to the northwest of the Special Area. This community is closely related to sheltered forests found on Permian soils beneath the escarpments of the Burragorang and Nattai Valleys. On lower slopes and gullies this community grades into Kowmung Sheltered Red Gum Forest (MU28) while more exposed locations develop into Kanangra Gorge Narrow-leaved Ironbark Woodland (MU46).

66 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 25m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 30% SD 11.8 Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus crebra, Eucalyptus tereticornis Minor associates: Angophora floribunda, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera, Eucalyptus bosistoana, Eucalyptus melliodora, Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Eucalyptus fibrosa, Eucalyptus sparsifolia, Eucalyptus bicostata Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 12m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 21% SD 15.9 Allocasuarina torulosa, Acacia implexa, Acacia falciformis, Acacia parramattensis, Backhousia myrtifolia Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 26% SD 21.6 Breynia oblongifolia, Indigofera australis, Olearia viscidula, Bursaria spinosa, Persoonia linearis, Notelaea longifolia forma longifolia, Lissanthe strigosa, Exocarpos strictus Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 47% SD 28.0 Pratia purpurascens, Stypandra glauca, Dichondra repens, Adiantum aethiopicum, Plantago debilis, Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi, Desmodium varians, Echinopogon ovatus, Glycine clandestina, Asplenium flabellifolium, Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides, Geitonoplesium cymosum, Veronica plebeia, Microlaena stipoides, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora, Lomandra longifolia, Aphanopetalum resinosum

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Sheltered valley slopes in the main river valleys in the north west sector of the Special Area (including Kowmung, Coxs and Jenolan Rivers and some of the larger tributaries). Elevations lie between 150 and 450 metres.  A canopy dominated by Grey Gum (Eucalyptus punctata) and Forest Oak (Allocasuarina torulosa).  A sheltered open forest with a scattered shrub layer that includes Blackthorn (Bursaria spinosa) and Indigofera australis and a mixed ground layer of mostly herbaceous species, such as Kidney Weed (Dichondra repens) and Maidenhair Ferns (Adiantum spp.), as well as grasses and small vines and twiners.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Mumbedah Creek; Breakfast Creek; Coxs River; on sheltered slopes north of the New Yards area along northern Scotts Main Range

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 67  CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 7450.25 63.1 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 3262.11 27.6 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 783.78 6.6 Total Reserved 11496.14 97.3 Total Unreserved 313.39 2.7 Total Area within Warragamba Special 11809.52 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 11497 97.3 Reserve Total Area of Community 11810 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 10207.36 86.4 B Moderate 1090.34 9.2 C Heavy 511.82 4.3 Total 11809.52 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Pterostylis saxicola (E1), Parahebe lithophila (2RCa), Gonocarpus longifolius (3RC-), Ozothamnus adnatus (3KC-), Senecio macranthus (3RC-)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Adiantum aethiopicum 2 0.80 2 0.21 positive Allocasuarina torulosa 4 0.88 3 0.16 positive Asplenium flabellifolium 2 0.64 2 0.21 positive Breynia oblongifolia 2 0.68 1 0.18 positive Bursaria spinosa 3 0.52 2 0.24 positive Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 2 0.68 2 0.24 positive Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides 2 0.64 2 0.15 positive Desmodium varians 2 0.68 2 0.27 positive Dichondra repens 3 0.92 2 0.35 positive Echinopogon ovatus 2 0.68 2 0.17 positive Eucalyptus crebra 3 0.56 3 0.10 positive Eucalyptus eugenioides 4 0.64 4 0.12 positive Eucalyptus punctata 4 0.88 3 0.33 positive Geitonoplesium cymosum 2 0.64 2 0.28 positive Glycine clandestina 2 0.68 2 0.30 positive Indigofera australis 2 0.68 2 0.18 positive

68 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 2 0.60 2 0.36 positive Microlaena stipoides 3 0.60 2 0.36 positive Olearia viscidula 2 0.60 2 0.31 positive Pelargonium inodorum 1 0.04 0 0.00 positive Plantago debilis 2 0.72 2 0.14 positive Plectranthus parviflorus 2 0.56 2 0.17 positive Pratia purpurascens 2 0.96 2 0.32 positive Pseuderanthemum variabile 3 0.52 2 0.06 positive Pterostylis saxicola 1 0.04 0 0.00 positive Sigesbeckia orientalis subsp. orientalis 2 0.52 2 0.13 positive Stypandra glauca 2 0.68 3 0.20 positive Veronica plebeia 2 0.64 2 0.19 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.72 2 0.55 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 69 MU22 Oakdale Blackbutt Gully Forest

Number of Sites: 6 No. taxa/plot: 48.5

 DESCRIPTION Oakdale Blackbutt Gully Forest occurs on deeper gullies of the Oakdale Plateau along the eastern boundary of the Special Area. Soils are a clayey sand material, which has formed as a result of mixing between the shale soil from upslope and sandstone bedrock associated with the underlying Mittagong Formation. This community is transitional in its floristic composition, varying with the degree of shale soil influencing the site. Eucalyptus pilularis and Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera were found at each site with Allocasuarina torulosa prominent in the small tree layer. Eucalyptus crebra and E. longifolia were also recorded in the canopy and are indicative of the influence of shale soil. Pittosporum revolutum, Acacia penninervis var. penninervis, A. parramattensis, A. floribunda and Elaeocarpus reticulatus are also common with some occurring as small trees. Lower shrub species include Leucopogon juniperinus, Hibbertia aspera subsp. aspera and Persoonia linearis. Ground covers are a mix of grasses, such as Microlaena stipoides, Entolasia marginata and E. stricta, herbs including Stypandra glauca and Lagenifera stipitata, and vines such as Tylophora barbata. Oakdale Blackbutt Gully Forest forms the dominant community along many of the incised gullies of the Oakdale Tableland.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Upper Height 27m Projected Canopy Cover 40% Eucalyptus pilularis, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera, Eucalyptus crebra Minor associates: Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus longifolia, Angophora floribunda, Corymbia gummifera, Angophora costata, Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus deanei, Eucalyptus fibrosa Small Trees: Upper Height 15m Projected Canopy Cover 20% Allocasuarina torulosa, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera Shrubs: Upper Height 3m Projected Canopy Cover 15% Hibbertia aspera subsp. aspera, Leucopogon juniperinus, Persoonia linearis, Pittosporum revolutum, Zieria smithii, Dodonaea triquetra

70 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Ground covers: Upper Height 0.5m, Projected Canopy Cover 65% Microlaena stipoides, Tylophora barbata, Lagenifera stipitata, Stypandra glauca, Pratia purpurascens, Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides, Entolasia marginata, Entolasia stricta, Glycine microphylla, Adiantum aethiopicum, Desmodium varians, Dianella caerulea, Hydrocotyle peduncularis, Opercularia diphylla, Viola hederacea, Lomandra longifolia, Echinopogon caespitosus var. caespitosus

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Blackbutt (Eucalyptus pilularis), Turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera) and Forest Oak (Allocasuarina torulosa) are prominent tree species.  An understorey with a high diversity and abundance of grass and herb species (Microlaena stipoides and Lagenifera stipitata) with sclerophyllous shrubs also present (Leucopogon juniperinus and Dodonaea triquetra).  Deeper slopes and gullies of the Oakdale Plateau on Mittagong Formation Sandstone in close proximity and influenced by Wianamatta Shale.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Green Hill (Oakdale Plateau); Waterfall Creek; Pumpkin Hill

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 110.52 10.4 Burragorang SCA 541.59 50.9 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0.05 0.0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 652.16 61.3 Total Unreserved 411.37 38.7 Total Area within Warragamba Special 1063.53 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >652 61.3 Reserve Total Area of Community >1064 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 835.18 78.5 B Moderate 221.34 20.8 C Heavy 7.01 0.7 Total 1063.53 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 71  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Adiantum aethiopicum 2 0.67 2 0.22 positive Allocasuarina torulosa 2 1.00 3 0.17 positive Austrostipa pubescens 2 0.50 2 0.04 positive Brunoniella pumilio 2 0.50 1 0.03 positive Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides 2 0.83 2 0.16 positive Desmodium varians 2 0.67 2 0.28 positive Dianella caerulea 2 0.67 2 0.35 positive Dodonaea triquetra 2 0.50 2 0.06 positive Entolasia marginata 2 0.83 2 0.09 positive Entolasia stricta 3 0.67 2 0.35 positive Eucalyptus crebra 2 0.50 3 0.10 positive Eucalyptus longifolia 4 0.17 0 0.00 positive Eucalyptus pilularis 4 1.00 4 0.01 positive Glycine microphylla 2 0.83 2 0.11 positive Hibbertia aspera subsp. aspera 3 0.83 2 0.11 positive Hydrocotyle peduncularis 2 0.67 2 0.06 positive Lagenifera stipitata 2 1.00 2 0.10 positive Leucopogon juniperinus 2 0.83 1 0.07 positive Microlaena stipoides 3 1.00 2 0.36 positive Opercularia diphylla 2 0.67 1 0.08 positive Persoonia linearis 2 0.83 2 0.44 positive Pittosporum revolutum 2 0.67 1 0.07 positive Pratia purpurascens 2 1.00 2 0.33 positive Stypandra glauca 3 0.83 3 0.21 positive Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera 4 1.00 4 0.10 positive Tylophora barbata 3 1.00 2 0.17 positive Viola hederacea 2 0.67 2 0.24 positive Zieria smithii 3 0.50 1 0.02 positive Lomandra longifolia 4 0.50 2 0.55 constant

72 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU23 Burragorang River Flat Forest

Number of Sites: 12 No. taxa/plot: 40

 DESCRIPTION Burragorang River Flat Forest is distributed extensively on deep sandy loam deposits of the alluvial flats associated with the major rivers and creek systems of the Kedumba, Little and Nattai River Valleys. The forest is tall to very tall reaching heights around 35 metres, and generally includes prominent stands of Eucalyptus deanei. At a number of disjunct locations Eucalyptus benthamii (a species listed on the Threatened Species Act, 1995) may dominate the canopy. Small terraces adjoining the riverbanks may have Eucalyptus elata, Angophora floribunda or Casuarina cunninghamiana subsp. cunninghamiana, while poorly drained areas will support occasional E. tereticornis. The understorey features an open shrub layer with species such as Acacia parramattensis, Breynia oblongifolia and Hymenanthera dentata. The alluvial flats are relatively open with few mesic species establishing dominance in the understorey. As a result a dense cover of grass species typifies most sites with Microlaena stipoides, Oplismenus aemulus and Entolasia marginata most abundant. Herbs such as Dichondra repens and Pratia purpurascens are also common below Pteridium esculentum and Lomandra longifolia. Small vines such as Stephania japonica var. discolor and Clematis aristata are also common. Burragorang River Flat Forest occupies locations, which have been periodically inundated by floodwaters. This flooding regularly deposits fresh alluvial material but also results in disturbance to the structure and composition of the understorey. The construction of the Warragamba Dam has drowned extensive areas of this community through the valley, and altered the hydrological regime for remaining areas. Past disturbance from agriculture clearing and forestry operations has affected most of the remaining habitat. Other closely related communities include the alluvial forests and woodlands found on the footslopes of the escarpments (MU49) and near the shale sandstone interface near Oakdale (MU38).

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 27m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 36% SD 15.4 Eucalyptus deanei, Eucalyptus benthamii, Eucalyptus elata, Casuarina cunninghamiana subsp. cunninghamiana, Angophora floribunda Minor associates: Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus fibrosa, Melaleuca styphelioides

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 73 Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 19% SD 10.6 Acacia parramattensis, Hymenanthera dentata, Breynia oblongifolia, Pimelea linifolia, Clerodendrum tomentosum, Notelaea longifolia forma longifolia, Duboisia myoporoides, Astrotricha latifolia, Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 1m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 85% SD 17.5 Pteridium esculentum, Microlaena stipoides, Lomandra longifolia, Echinopogon ovatus, Oplismenus aemulus, Pratia purpurascens, Glycine clandestina, Dichondra repens, Entolasia marginata, Cayratia clematidea, Clematis aristata, Hydrocotyle peduncularis, Adiantum aethiopicum, Austrostipa ramosissima, Stephania japonica var. discolor, Lepidosperma laterale, Cissus hypoglauca, Gahnia aspera, Imperata cylindrica var. major

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Broad alluvial flats, supporting a deep sandy loam material that adjoins the major river and creek systems within the Burragorang Valley.  Tall Mountain Blue Gum (Eucalyptus deanei) and Nepean River Gum (E. benthamii) are indicative canopy species. Trees that are common in other Blue Gum Forests such as Turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera) do not occur in this community.  Sydney Green Wattle (Acacia parramattensis) is found within an open shrub layer. Moist shrubs are not common.  The ground layer is characterised by a dense cover of grasses such as Microlaena stipoides, Bracken (Pteridium esculentum) and Spiny-headed Mat-rush (Lomandra longifolia). Moisture loving species are present but not overly abundant.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Kedumba and Nattai Rivers; Reedy Creek; Sheeys Creek; Orange Tree Flat (Little River)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 343.11 40.9 Burragorang SCA 14.58 1.17 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 418.28 49.9 Nattai SCA 29.08 3.5 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 1.36 0.2 Total Reserved 806.41 96.2 Total Unreserved 32.21 3.8 Total Area within Warragamba Special 838.63 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 806 43.1 Reserve Total Area of Community 1868 100

74 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 213.63 25.5 B Moderate 373.32 44.5 C Heavy 251.68 30.0 Total 838.63 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Eucalyptus benthamii (V), Notochloe microdon (2RC-)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity score Freq Score Freq Class Adiantum aethiopicum 3 0.57 2 0.24 positive Austrostipa ramosissima 3 0.57 2 0.07 positive Cayratia clematidea 2 0.71 2 0.08 positive Clematis aristata 2 0.71 2 0.33 positive Dichondra repens 4 0.57 3 0.39 positive Echinopogon ovatus 2 0.86 2 0.20 positive Entolasia marginata 5 0.57 2 0.11 positive Glycine clandestina 2 0.86 2 0.32 positive Hydrocotyle peduncularis 2 0.57 2 0.08 positive Microlaena stipoides 5 0.86 2 0.41 positive Oplismenus aemulus 4 0.86 2 0.09 positive Pratia purpurascens 3 0.86 2 0.32 positive Pteridium esculentum 3 1.00 2 0.37 positive Rubus parvifolius 2 0.57 2 0.13 positive Stephania japonica var. discolor 3 0.57 2 0.10 positive Lomandra longifolia 4 0.86 2 0.57 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 75 MU24 Highlands Sandstone Dry Shrub Forest

Number of Sites: 22 No. taxa/plot: 44

 DESCRIPTION Highlands Sandstone Dry Shrub Forest is found on the higher elevation Hawkesbury,Mittagong and Narrabeen Sandstones of the Southern Nattai Plateau. It is generally found across elevations between 500 and 800 metres in the far south of the Special Area. The principal canopy species are Eucalyptus agglomerata, E. punctata, E. sieberi, Angophora costata, E. piperita and E. sclerophylla. Eucalyptus sieberi and E. piperita are often dominant in exposed positions, whereas E. agglomerata and E. punctata tend to occur on the upper slopes and crests where soils are marginally deeper. The forest is tall, usually above twenty metres in height, and may include Allocasuarina littoralis as a small tree layer. The forest is composed of dry shrubs. It includes Persoonia linearis, P. levis, Leptomeria acida, Acacia terminalis, A. ulicifolia, Podolobium ilicifolium, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Bossiaea obcordata and Leptospermum trinervium. The presence of Boronia algida in the shrub layer is indicative of the higher elevations. Low growing shrubs feature prominently amongst the ground covers. These include Phyllanthus hirtellus, Tetratheca thymifolia and Hibbertia empetrifolia subsp. empetrifolia. Patersonia glabrata, Pomax umbellata, Stypandra glauca and Entolasia stricta are also common amongst the lowest stratum. In the Warragamba Special Area, Highlands Sandstone Dry Shrub Forest is limited to the Sandstone Plateaux and slopes between Mt. Wanganderry and Joadja Nature Reserve. Outside of the Special Area this community is more extensively distributed throughout the Shoalhaven and Wollondilly Catchments (Forest Ecosystem 15, NPWS 2000a). NPWS (2000a) suggests that the original distribution has been reduced through clearing with only small areas currently located in formal reserves.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 21m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 24% SD 10.1 Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus sieberi, Angophora costata, Eucalyptus piperita, Eucalyptus sclerophylla Minor associates: Eucalyptus globoidea, Eucalyptus sideroxylon, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera, Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus elata

76 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 6.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 19% SD 12.7 Persoonia linearis, Persoonia levis, Tetratheca thymifolia, Podolobium ilicifolium, Bossiaea obcordata, Leptospermum trinervium, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Leptomeria acida, Allocasuarina littoralis Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 10% SD 7.9 Pomax umbellata, Entolasia stricta, Stypandra glauca, Dampiera purpurea, Lomatia silaifolia, Pteridium esculentum

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Crests and upper slopes on Sandstone Plateaux above 500 metres in elevation between Mt. Wanganderry and Burragorang Lookout (Wombeyan Caves Road).  A canopy dominated by Blue-leaved Stringybark (Eucalyptus agglomerata) and sometimes Silvertop Ash (E. sieberi), Sydney Peppermint (E. piperita) and Smooth-barked Apple (Angophora costata). Grey Gum (E. punctata) is often associated with these species.  An absence of Red Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera) which is consistently found on sandstones of lower elevations, but not found in this community.  A dry shrub layer comprising Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Geebungs (Persoonia spp.) and Sunshine Wattle (Acacia terminalis).  The prominence of Nodding Blue Lily (Stypandra glauca) amongst the ground cover.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Sandstone ridges surrounding Mt. Wanganderry; ridges surrounding Burragorang Lookout (Wombeyan Caves Road)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0 0 Burragorang SCA 376.65 16.8 Joadja NR 125.25 5.6 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 1475.36 65.9 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 1977.26 88.3 Total Unreserved 262.81 11.7 Total Area within Warragamba Special 2240.08 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 5269 6.3 Reserve Total Area of Community 83842 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 1984.88 88.6 B Moderate 161.57 7.2 C Heavy 93.63 4.2 Total 2240.08 100

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 77  THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa 2 0.56 2 0.21 positive Billardiera scandens var. scandens 2 0.76 1 0.32 positive Boronia algida 2 0.04 0 0.00 positive Bossiaea obcordata 3 0.68 2 0.08 positive Dampiera purpurea 2 0.72 2 0.16 positive Entolasia stricta 2 0.80 2 0.35 positive Eucalyptus agglomerata 4 0.72 4 0.13 positive Gonocarpus teucrioides 2 0.68 2 0.15 positive Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea 3 0.76 2 0.25 positive Hibbertia empetrifolia subsp. empetrifolia 2 0.80 2 0.07 positive Leptospermum trinervium 2 0.60 3 0.16 positive Lomandra cylindrica 2 0.52 2 0.04 positive Lomandra obliqua 2 0.60 2 0.19 positive Lomatia silaifolia 2 0.72 2 0.25 positive Patersonia glabrata 2 0.80 2 0.10 positive Persoonia levis 2 0.76 2 0.14 positive Persoonia linearis 2 1.00 2 0.43 positive Phyllanthus hirtellus 2 0.72 2 0.27 positive Podolobium ilicifolium 2 0.72 2 0.16 positive Pomax umbellata 2 0.88 2 0.28 positive Stypandra glauca 3 0.72 3 0.20 positive Tetratheca thymifolia 2 0.76 2 0.03 positive Lomandra longifolia 1 0.40 2 0.55 negative

78 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU25 Blue Mountains Sandstone Dry Shrub Forest

Number of Sites: 31 No. taxa/plot: 47.3

 DESCRIPTION Blue Mountains Sandstone Dry Shrub Forest is an open forest community dominated by Eucalyptus piperita and Corymbia gummifera with Angophora costata, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera and E. sparsifolia less common. This community covers the exposed upper slopes and broad ridges on sandstones of Burragorang and Kings Tableland, and residual sandstones within Burragorang Valley. It is a taller forest than exposed sandstone woodlands as it prefers less exposed locations and sites where soils are slightly deeper. It has an open and diverse shrub understorey that includes Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Persoonia linearis, Podolobium ilicifolium, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Leptospermum trinervium, L. polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium Lambertia formosa, Persoonia levis and Telopea speciosissima. Ground covers include Entolasia stricta, Lomatia silaifolia, Pteridium esculentum, Pomax umbellata, Lomandra obliqua, L. longifolia and Phyllanthus hirtellus. Blue Mountains Sandstone Dry Shrub Forest is found at elevations between 115 and 500 metres altitude, across the residual sandstone plateaux of the lower Blue Mountains. It occurs from Beloon Pass to Lacys Tableland, Axehead Mountain, Werriberri Creek, Narrow Neck Plateau, Ruined Castle and slopes either side of the Coxs River Arm on colluvial Narrabeen sandstone. It includes dry shrub forests found near the Warragamba Gorge which include Eucalyptus pilularis in the canopy.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 19m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 31% SD 10.1 Eucalyptus piperita, Corymbia gummifera, Angophora costata, Eucalyptus sparsifolia, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera Minor associates: Eucalyptus sieberi, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus pilularis, Eucalyptus notabilis

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 79 Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2.7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 32% SD 21.0 Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Persoonia linearis, Podolobium ilicifolium, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Leptospermum trinervium, Lambertia formosa, Persoonia levis, Acacia linifolia, Acacia ulicifolia Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 23% SD 20.9 Entolasia stricta, Lomatia silaifolia, Lomandra longifolia, Lomandra obliqua, Phyllanthus hirtellus, Patersonia glabrata, Pomax umbellata, Pteridium esculentum, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora, Amperea xiphoclada, Dianella revoluta var. revoluta, Hardenbergia violacea, Lepidosperma laterale

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Sandstone ridges and exposed slopes at elevations between 100 and 800 metres  Open forest dominated by Sydney Peppermint (Eucalyptus piperita), Smooth-barked Apple (Angophora costata) and Red Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera).

 Open shrub layer comprising Banksias, Geebungs (Persoonia spp.), Wattles (Acacia ulicifolia, A. linifolia) and Tea-trees (Leptospermum spp.).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Axehead Mountain (Tonalli Range); Ruined Castle Ridge; Kings Tableland; ridgetops of Burragorang Tableland

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 9685.07 65.5 Burragorang SCA 3846.16 26.0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 54.04 0.4 Nattai NP 607.75 4.1 Nattai SCA 13.89 0.1 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 46.80 0.3 Total Reserved 14253.71 96.4 Total Unreserved 536.11 3.6 Total Area within Warragamba Special 14789.82 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >18000 90.0 Reserve Total Area of Community >20000 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 12637.01 85.4 B Moderate 2052.55 13.9 C Heavy 100.26 0.7 Total 14789.82 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Lissanthe sapida (3RCa), Rupicola sprengelioides (2RC-t)

80 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa 3 1.00 2 0.20 positive Corymbia gummifera 3 0.58 4 0.11 positive Dianella caerulea 3 0.77 2 0.34 positive Entolasia stricta 2 0.96 2 0.34 positive Eucalyptus piperita 4 0.96 4 0.13 positive Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea 2 0.54 2 0.26 positive Hardenbergia violacea 2 0.73 1 0.26 positive Lambertia formosa 3 0.50 4 0.06 positive Leptospermum trinervium 2 0.54 3 0.16 positive Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus 2 0.69 2 0.27 positive Lindsaea microphylla 2 0.50 1 0.09 positive Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 2 0.69 2 0.36 positive Lomandra obliqua 3 0.85 2 0.18 positive Lomatia silaifolia 3 0.92 2 0.24 positive Patersonia glabrata 3 0.73 2 0.10 positive Persoonia linearis 2 0.81 2 0.43 positive Phyllanthus hirtellus 2 0.92 2 0.27 positive Platysace ericoides 3 0.58 2 0.05 positive Podolobium ilicifolium 2 0.77 2 0.16 positive Pomax umbellata 3 0.69 2 0.29 positive Pteridium esculentum 3 0.69 2 0.35 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.73 2 0.54 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 81 MU26 Nattai Sandstone Dry Shrub Forest

Number of Sites: 21 No. taxa/plot: 49.0

 DESCRIPTION Nattai Sandstone Dry Shrub Forest is a dry open forest found on the broad Hawkesbury Sandstone ridges and exposed upper slopes of the Nattai Tableland. The canopy is moderately tall and open with Corymbia gummifera, Eucalyptus piperita and Stringybarks (E. agglomerata, E. globoidea, E. oblonga and E. eugenioides) most frequently recorded. The understorey is a diverse mix of low shrubs and heath species such as Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Persoonia levis, Leptospermum trinervium, Acacia linifolia, Xylomelum pyriforme and Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus. The sparse ground stratum is comprised of Lomatia silaifolia, Entolasia stricta, Phyllanthus hirtellus, Pomax umbellata, Patersonia sericea and Lomandra obliqua. Nattai Sandstone Dry Shrub Forest occurs on the exposed Hawkesbury Sandstones at lower elevations between 185 and 570 metres. Soils are infertile but marginally deeper than those found on the bony narrow ridges where the heath understorey becomes more abundant. This community extends across the Nattai Tableland to the south of the Special Area.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 21m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 38% SD 7.3 Corymbia gummifera, Eucalyptus piperita, Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus globoidea, Eucalyptus oblonga Minor associates: Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera, Corymbia eximia, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus sieberi, Eucalyptus sclerophylla, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus fibrosa, Angophora bakeri Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 3.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 29% SD 17.09 Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Persoonia levis, Leptospermum trinervium, Acacia linifolia, Xylomelum pyriforme, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Bossiaea neo-anglica, Leptomeria acida, Podolobium ilicifolium, Acacia ulicifolia, Grevillea mucronulata, Gompholobium latifolium, Pimelea linifolia, Persoonia linearis

82 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.9m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 32% SD 21.1 Lomatia silaifolia, Entolasia stricta, Phyllanthus hirtellus, Pomax umbellata, Patersonia sericea, Lomandra obliqua, Billardiera scandens var. scandens, Xanthosia pilosa, Dianella caerulea, Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea, Hovea linearis

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Broad Hawkesbury Sandstone ridges and exposed upper slopes of the Nattai Tableland.  Open Forest dominated by Red Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera), Sydney Peppermint (Eucalyptus piperita) and Stringybarks (E. agglomerata, E. globoidea, E. eugenioides, E. oblonga). Note the stringybarks are difficult to identify in this region and are a source of taxonomic uncertainty.  Diverse shrub understorey featuring Banksias, Geebungs (Persoonia spp.), Wattles (Acacia ulicifolia, A. linifolia) and Leptospermum trinervium.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Centre Ridge and Buckland Wall (Nattai Tableland); Mount Burragorang

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0.12 0.0 Blue Mountains NP 2434.03 23.7 Burragorang SCA 1372.02 13.3 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 4817.46 46.9 Nattai SCA 808.09 7.9 Thirlmere Lakes NP 191.06 1.9 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 9622.78 93.6 Total Unreserved 658.45 6.4 Total Area within Warragamba Special 10281.23 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >9622 >64.1 Reserve Total Area of Community >15000 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 8420.47 81.9 B Moderate 1849.11 18.0 C Heavy 11.65 0.1 Total 10281.23 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Rulingia prostrata (E1), Persoonia hirsuta (E1), Tetratheca glandulosa (V), Lissanthe sapida (3RCa), Lomandra fluviatilis (3RCa), Lomandra brevis (2RC-)

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 83  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia linifolia 2 0.62 2 0.08 positive Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa 3 0.71 2 0.21 positive Billardiera scandens var. scandens 2 0.67 1 0.32 positive Boronia polygalifolia 1 0.05 0 0.00 positive Bossiaea neo-anglica 3 0.52 2 0.01 positive Corymbia gummifera 3 0.95 4 0.11 positive Dianella caerulea 2 0.52 2 0.35 positive Dillwynia elegans 4 0.05 0 0.00 positive Entolasia stricta 3 0.90 2 0.35 positive Eucalyptus piperita 4 0.71 4 0.14 positive Lepidosperma laterale 2 0.52 2 0.26 positive Leptomeria acida 2 0.52 1 0.07 positive Leptospermum trinervium 4 0.62 3 0.16 positive Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus 2 0.57 2 0.27 positive Lomandra obliqua 2 0.76 2 0.19 positive Lomatia silaifolia 2 1.00 2 0.24 positive Patersonia sericea 2 0.81 2 0.07 positive Persoonia hirsuta 2 0.05 0 0.00 positive Persoonia levis 2 0.71 1 0.14 positive Persoonia mollis subsp. revoluta 1 0.05 0 0.00 positive Phyllanthus hirtellus 2 0.90 2 0.27 positive Platysace linearifolia 2 0.57 2 0.06 positive Podolobium ilicifolium 2 0.52 2 0.17 positive Pomax umbellata 2 0.86 2 0.29 positive Pultenaea hispidula 4 0.05 0 0.00 positive Xanthosia pilosa 2 0.67 2 0.07 positive Xylomelum pyriforme 2 0.62 2 0.07 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.33 2 0.55 negative

84 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU27 Burragorang Sandstone Dry Shrub Forest

Number of Sites: 13 No. taxa/plot: 48.8

 DESCRIPTION Burragorang Sandstone Dry Shrub Forest occurs on broad flat sandstone ridges and scarps north from Oakdale. The soils comprise a subtle mix of sand and clay material with the later derived from residual shale lenses within the sandstone or from deeply weathered Wianamatta Shale caps. Eucalyptus punctata, Angophora costata, Corymbia gummifera and a variety of stringybarks are commonly observed canopy species with Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera frequently recorded as a small tree. The understorey is predominantly shrubby with Persoonia linearis, Grevillea mucronulata, Acacia linifolia and Leptospermum trinervium most abundant. Other shrub species include Dodonaea triquetra, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa and Acacia ulicifolia. The ground cover is well covered by small shrubs, grasses and graminoids. These include Entolasia stricta, Phyllanthus hirtellus, Lomandra longifolia, L. obliqua, L. multiflora subsp. multiflora, Pomax umbellata, Caustis flexuosa and Cassytha pubescens. Burragorang Sandstone Dry Shrub Forest is closely related to the transition forests (with high sandstone influence (MU57)) found on the interface of the sandstone and shale and also to the sheltered sandstone forests. The heavier clay soils occasionally support Eucalyptus notabilis, E resinifera subsp. resinifera or E. pilularis while sandier gradients include E. piperita, E. sieberi and Corymbia eximia. This community is poorly described outside of the Special Area although it is likely to be found in similar environments of the lower Blue Mountains. Given the clear dominance of sandstone species in this community it does not form a component of the Shale Sandstone Transition Forests, an Endangered Ecological Community listed under the Threatened Species Act, 1997.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Height 20m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 32% (SD 11) Angophora costata, Corymbia gummifera, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera, Eucalyptus punctata, and less frequently Eucalyptus piperata, Eucalyptus notabilis, Eucalyptus pilularis, Eucalyptus resinifera subsp. resinifera, Eucalyptus sieberi, Corymbia eximia, Eucalyptus sclerophylla Smalls Trees: Mean Height 9m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 20% (SD 13) Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera, Allocasuarina littoralis, Allocasuarina torulosa

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 85 Shrubs: Mean Height 3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 36% (SD 22) Persoonia linearis, Persoonia levis, Grevillea mucronulata, Acacia linifolia, Acacia obtusifolia, Acacia ulicifolia, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Dodonaea triquetra, Leptospermum trinervium, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Podolobium ilicifolium, Pultenaea scabra Ground covers: Height 1m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 30% (SD 26) Entolasia stricta, Dianella caerulea, Lomandra obliqua, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora, Lomandra longifolia, Lindsaea microphylla, Bossiaea buxifolia, Lomatia silaifolia, Phyllanthus hirtellus, Pomax umbellata, Cassytha pubescens, Caustis flexuosa, Xanthorrhoea resinifera

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:

 Broad flat to gently sloping sandstone plateaus north of Oakdale.  A moderately tall open forest supporting Smooth-barked Apple (Angophora costata), Red Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera) and Stringybarks (Eucalyptus globoidea, E. eugenioides, E. sparsifolia and E. agglomerata).  A dense layer of Turpentine (Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera) occurring as a small tree.  A shrubby understorey featuring Grevilleas, Wattles (Acacia spp.) and Narrow-leaved Geebung (Persoonia levis).  An abundant ground cover of Wiry Panic (Entolasia stricta), Curly Sedge (Caustis flexuosa) and Pomax umbellata.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Oakdale Colliery; Fire Trail W10A; Fire Trail W5

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 217.63 10.9 Burragorang SCA 1502.38 75.1 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 1720.01 86.0 Total Unreserved 279.3 14.0 Total Area within Warragamba Special 1999.30 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >1720 86 Reserve Total Area of Community >2000 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 295.58 14.8 B Moderate 1632.13 81.6 C Heavy 71.59 3.6 Total 1999.30 100

86 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia linifolia 3 0.69 2 0.09 positive Angophora costata 4 0.85 4 0.10 positive Billardiera scandens var. scandens 2 0.69 1 0.31 positive Corymbia gummifera 2 0.85 4 0.13 positive Cryptostylis leptochila 2 0.08 0 0.00 positive Dampiera purpurea 2 0.62 2 0.17 positive Dianella caerulea 2 0.92 2 0.33 positive Entolasia stricta 3 1.00 2 0.41 positive Epacris reclinata 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Grevillea mucronulata 3 0.77 2 0.04 positive Lepidosperma laterale 2 0.62 2 0.28 positive Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 2 0.85 2 0.39 positive Lomandra obliqua 2 0.77 2 0.21 positive Lomatia silaifolia 2 0.69 2 0.27 positive Patersonia glabrata 2 0.85 2 0.12 positive Persoonia linearis 2 0.92 2 0.44 positive Phyllanthus hirtellus 2 0.92 2 0.31 positive Pomax umbellata 2 0.92 2 0.30 positive Pultenaea polifolia 2 0.08 0 0.00 positive Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera 4 0.92 4 0.11 positive Lomandra longifolia 1 0.69 2 0.57 negative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 87 MU28 Kowmung Sheltered Red Gum Forest

Number of Sites: 19 No. taxa/plot: 57.3

 DESCRIPTION Kowmung Sheltered Red Gum Forest is an open forest found on the steep metamorphosed sediments of the Kowmung and Coxs River Catchments, and Kanangra Gorge. Eucalyptus tereticornis, reaching upper heights of 25 metres, is the dominant canopy species sometimes in association with E. crebra. On lower slopes, Angophora floribunda shares the canopy, particularly as proximity to major streams and rivers increases. Moist components of this community are found throughout the understorey. A small tree layer is sometimes present and may include Allocasuarina torulosa and Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus. In very protected locations, near slope drainage lines and lower slopes, dense thickets of Backhousia myrtifolia can feature prominently. A moderately dense shrub layer composed of Hymenanthera dentata, Indigofera australis, Bursaria spinosa, Olearia viscidula and Notelaea longifolia forma longifolia is common. The ground cover is a combination of low growing ferns, such as Adiantum aethiopicum and Pellaea falcata, with a high diversity of twiners and vines including Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana, Geitonoplesium cymosum, Desmodium varians, Tylophora barbata, Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides, Stephania japonica var. discolor, Celastrus australis and Maclura cochinchinensis. The latter two species are more typical in dry rainforest. Grasses and herbs are equally abundant and include Oplismenus imbecillis, Microlaena stipoides, Stellaria spp. and Dichondra repens. Kowmung Sheltered Red Gum Forest occurs at elevations between 250 and 500 metres in the drier valleys of the rugged western catchments. In gullies and protected slopes this community develops into a dry rainforest. In more exposed locations, the mesic species decline and a low open woodland dominated by Eucalyptus crebra occurs. It is unlikely that Kowmung Sheltered Red Gum Forest occurs outside of the Special Area, although sampling in such remote, rugged country is rarely undertaken elsewhere. Despite low rainfall, the soil supports sufficient clay material to retain moisture in the soil. As a result, this community can be vulnerable to weed invasion from a wide variety of species such as Blackberry (Rubus spp.) and Wandering Jew (Tradescantia fluminensis). These impacts are generally localised to lower slope areas.

88 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 20m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 25% SD 13.9 Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus crebra Minor associates: Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus moluccana, Eucalyptus sparsifolia, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus smithii Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 17% SD 12.2 Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus Backhousia myrtifolia, Allocasuarina torulosa, Alectryon subcinereus, Acacia clunies-rossiae, Acacia maidenii Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2.4m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 23% SD 13.0 Olearia viscidula, Hymenanthera dentata, Indigofera australis, Bursaria spinosa, Notelaea longifolia forma longifolia, Dodonaea viscosa subsp. angustifolia Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 47% SD 23.5 Dichondra repens, Pellaea falcata, Adiantum aethiopicum, Oplismenus imbecillis, Microlaena stipoides, Asplenium flabellifolium, Einadia hastata, Plectranthus parviflorus, Stellaria flaccida, Stellaria pungens, Pratia purpurascens, Glycine clandestina Vines & Climbers: no structural data available Geitonoplesium cymosum, Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana, Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides, Stephania japonica var. discolor, Tylophora barbata, Aphanopetalum resinosum

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  An open forest on sheltered slopes of the Kowmung and Coxs River Catchments, found on metamorphic sediments of the Devonian Lambie Group (Quartzites).  Principally a Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis) dominated forest, sometimes with Narrow- leaved Ironbark (E. crebra).  Small trees are sometimes present including Kurrajong (Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus), Forest Oak (Allocasuarina torulosa) and Grey Myrtle (Backhousia myrtifolia) when grading into dry rainforest. A dense shrub layer commonly occurs with Tree Violet (Hymenanthera dentata) being particularly indicative but also including Blackthorn (Bursaria spinosa) and Wallaby Weed (Olearia viscidula).  The ground cover is typically dense and comprised of a mix of species including ferns, grasses and herbs as well as vines and climbers. Common species include Wonga Wonga Vine (Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana), Scrambling Lily (Geitonoplesium cymosum), Starworts (Stellaria spp.), Kidney Weed (Dichondra repens), Common Maidenhair (Adiantum aethiopicum), Sickle Fern (Pellaea falcata) and grasses (Oplismenus imbecillis and Microlaena stipoides).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Colong Caves; Church Creek Caves; Roots Ridge; Stockyard Spur (Lower Kowmung River)

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 89  CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 521.47 62.6 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 258.58 31.1 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 5.07 0.6 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 33.01 4.0 Total Reserved 818.13 98.3 Total Unreserved 14.52 1.7 Total Area within Warragamba Special 832.64 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 818 55.5 Reserve Total Area of Community >1500 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 705.26 84.7 B Moderate 57.20 6.9 C Heavy 70.18 8.4 Total 832.64 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Acacia clunies-rossiae (V), Senecio macranthus (3RC-)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Adiantum aethiopicum 3 0.86 2 0.21 positive Asplenium flabellifolium 2 0.71 2 0.21 positive Bursaria spinosa 3 0.62 2 0.24 positive Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides 2 0.62 2 0.16 positive Dichondra repens 3 0.95 3 0.35 positive Einadia hastata 2 0.62 1 0.06 positive Eucalyptus tereticornis 4 0.86 4 0.13 positive Geitonoplesium cymosum 2 1.00 2 0.28 positive Glycine clandestina 2 0.57 2 0.30 positive Goodenia grandiflora 2 0.05 0 0.00 positive Hymenanthera dentata 3 0.71 2 0.08 positive Indigofera australis 2 0.67 2 0.18 positive Maclura cochinchinensis 2 0.10 0 0.00 positive Microlaena stipoides 3 0.71 2 0.36 positive Muehlenbeckia rhyticarya 1 0.05 0 0.00 positive Notelaea longifolia forma longifolia 2 0.57 1 0.16 positive Olearia viscidula 3 0.81 2 0.31 positive

90 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Oplismenus imbecillis 3 0.86 2 0.16 positive Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana 2 0.67 2 0.25 positive Paspalidium gracile 1 0.05 0 0.00 positive Pellaea falcata 3 0.95 2 0.15 positive Plectranthus parviflorus 2 0.62 2 0.17 positive Pratia purpurascens 2 0.57 2 0.33 positive Scaevola albida var. pallida 3 0.05 0 0.00 positive Stellaria flaccida 3 0.57 2 0.08 positive Stellaria pungens 2 0.52 2 0.13 positive Stephania japonica var. discolor 2 0.62 2 0.09 positive Tylophora barbata 3 0.52 2 0.17 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.33 2 0.55 negative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 91 MU29 Exposed Devonian Grey Gum Forest

Number of Sites: 16 No. taxa/plot: 31.6

 DESCRIPTION Exposed Devonian Grey Gum Forest is found on upper slopes, crests and undulating ridgetops along southern Scotts Main Range and in the Bindook Highlands. This community is associated with exposed Devonian Quartzites. This forest has an open canopy dominated by Eucalyptus punctata with E. agglomerata and E. crebra regularly co-dominant. A number of other stringybark species are also recorded at low frequency. A sparse cover of Allocasuarina torulosa, A. littoralis and/or Exocarpus strictus is often present. The shrub layer includes an open cover of Persoonia linearis, a diversity of Acacia species with Stypandra glauca and Olearia viscidula occurring less frequently. The ground layer features a number of low growing herbs and grasses. These are generally scattered leaving an open cover of leaf litter, rocks and bare earth. Species frequently include Pomax umbellata, Entolasia stricta, Dianella revoluta var. revoluta, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora and L. confertifolia subsp. rubiginosa. The structural and floristic characteristics of the understorey vary in response to the composition of the soil. Sclerophyllous shrubs become more abundant and diverse in areas where the soils are shallower. Elsewhere, herbs such as Stypandra glauca and Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea gain prominence. The distribution of this community outside of the catchment is currently poorly known. Floristically however, it relates to other exposed woodlands associated with exposed, dry environments (MU48, MU35).

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 18.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 27% SD 9.0 Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus crebra Minor Associates: Eucalyptus globoidea, Eucalyptus sparsifolia, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus blaxlandii, Eucalyptus sieberi Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 16% SD 17.4 Allocasuarina torulosa, Acacia clunies-rossiae, Exocarpus strictus

92 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 1.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 25% SD 18.4 Persoonia linearis, Stypandra glauca, Podolobium ilicifolium, Lissanthe strigosa, Olearia viscidula, Goodia lotifolia Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 21% SD 16.8 Pomax umbellata, Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea, Phyllanthus hirtellus, Entolasia stricta, Hardenbergia violacea, Dianella revoluta var. revoluta, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora, Lomandra confertifolia subsp. rubiginosa, Microlaena stipoides

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  An open forest dominated by Grey Gum (Eucalyptus punctata), Narrow-leaved Ironbark (E. crebra) and Blue-leaved Stringybark (E. agglomerata). The latter species and the distribution of this community distinguishes it from Escarpment Slopes Dry Ironbark Woodland (MU48).  A scattered layer of small tree species such as Forest Oak (Allocasuarina torulosa) and a sparse shrub and ground cover with Narrow-leaved Geebung (Persoonia linearis), Nodding Blue Lily (Stypandra glauca) and Pomax umbellata commonly found.  Upper slopes, crests and ridgetops on outcrops of residual Permian Sandstone. These outcrops are at higher elevation than the bulk of the Permian derived sediments.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Ironmonger Hill and Bulga Range (Scotts Main Range); Noorat Mountain (Bindook Highlands)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 1605.40 50.5 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 1555.69 49.0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 14.35 0.4 Total Reserved 3175.44 99.9 Total Unreserved 2.52 0.1 Total Area within Warragamba Special 3177.96 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 3175 99.9 Reserve Total Area of Community 3178 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 3065.76 96.5 B Moderate 77.36 2.4 C Heavy 34.84 1.1 Total 3177.96 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Acacia clunies-rossiae (V), Gonocarpus longifolius (3RC-)

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 93  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Class Score Freq Score Freq Bertya rosmarinifolia 1 0.05 0 0.00 positive Caleana major 1 0.05 0 0.00 positive Dianella revoluta var. revoluta 2 0.60 2 0.23 positive Entolasia stricta 2 0.70 2 0.35 positive Eucalyptus agglomerata 4 0.65 4 0.14 positive Eucalyptus punctata 4 1.00 3 0.33 positive Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea 3 0.80 2 0.25 positive Hardenbergia violacea 2 0.65 1 0.26 positive Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 2 0.60 2 0.36 positive Persoonia linearis 2 0.85 2 0.43 positive Phyllanthus hirtellus 2 0.80 2 0.27 positive Podolobium ilicifolium 2 0.65 2 0.17 positive Pomax umbellata 3 0.90 2 0.29 positive Stypandra glauca 3 0.70 3 0.20 positive Allocasuarina torulosa 2 0.40 3 0.17 uninformative Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 2 0.35 2 0.25 uninformative Dampiera purpurea 1 0.35 2 0.17 uninformative Eucalyptus crebra 4 0.45 3 0.10 uninformative Exocarpos strictus 3 0.40 2 0.13 uninformative Hibbertia obtusifolia 1 0.45 2 0.15 uninformative Lissanthe strigosa 1 0.55 2 0.16 uninformative Microlaena stipoides 2 0.40 2 0.37 uninformative Olearia viscidula 2 0.45 2 0.32 uninformative Opercularia diphylla 1 0.35 1 0.08 uninformative Lomandra longifolia 2 0.30 2 0.55 negative

94 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU30 Wingecarribee Slopes Stringybark Forest

Number of Sites: 11 No. taxa/plot: 41.2

 DESCRIPTION Wingecarribee Slopes Stringybark Forest is restricted to the south east of the Special Area around Deep Creek, in the Wingecarribee Catchment. It occurs across mid to lower slopes of the colluvial Permian slopes below the sandstone plateau. It grows on slightly more enriched soils of finer grained shales and siltstones than those associated with the sandy soils of the plateau. Wingecarribee Slopes Stringybark Forest is a dry open forest dominated by Eucalyptus punctata and E. globoidea. Lower footslopes may include Eucalyptus melliodora and E. bridgesiana. The understorey is moderately open with scattered small trees and shrubs such as Allocasuarina littoralis, Persoonia linearis, Olearia viscidula, Lissanthe strigosa and Exocarpos strictus. The lower stratum comprises grasses, herbs and rushes such as Pomax umbellata, Microlaena stipoides, Phyllanthus hirtellus, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora, L. longifolia, Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea and Stypandra glauca. Sandstone shrubs that are common to Highlands Sandstone Dry Shrub Forest (MU24) such as Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Tetratheca thymifolia, Lomatia silaifolia, Leptospermum trinervium, Podolobium ilicifolium and Persoonia levis are virtually absent from this community. These shrubs are replaced by species such as Olearia viscidula. On sheltered slopes and gullies this community grades into Highlands Gorge River Peppermint Forest (MU15). Wingecarribee Slopes Stringybark Forest is more extensive in the Shoalhaven Catchment south of the Special Area. It is distributed within a narrow band of elevation between 500 and 750 metres on Permian and Ordovician Sediments (Forest Ecosystem 16 (NPWS, 2000a)).

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 23m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 36% SD 10.8 Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus globoidea Minor associates: Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus fibrosa, Eucalyptus piperita, Eucalyptus bridgesiana, Eucalyptus cinerea, Eucalyptus sclerophylla, Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Eucalyptus melliodora

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 95 Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 20% SD 20.4 Persoonia linearis, Olearia viscidula, Allocasuarina littoralis, Exocarpos strictus, Lissanthe strigosa, Acacia longifolia subsp. longifolia Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 22% SD 20.8 Pomax umbellata, Microlaena stipoides, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora, Phyllanthus hirtellus, Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea, Stypandra glauca, Opercularia diphylla, Lomandra filiformis subsp. coriacea, Hardenbergia violacea, Entolasia stricta

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  A Stringybark (Eucalyptus globoidea, with E. agglomerata occurring occasionally) and Grey Gum (E. punctata) dominant canopy on moderate to steep dry slopes in the Joadja area.  An open shrub layer often featuring Wallaby Weed (Olearia viscidula) amongst an open ground cover of Pomax umbellata and Microlaena stipoides.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Mid slopes of the Deep Creek Catchment (Joadja Nature Reserve)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0 0 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 53.44 19.9 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 53.44 19.9 Total Unreserved 215.15 80.1 Total Area within Warragamba Special 268.58 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 10606 45.9 Reserve Total Area of Community 23127 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 137.32 51.1 B Moderate 111.13 41.4 C Heavy 20.13 7.5 Total 268.58 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

96 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Class Score Freq Score Freq Allocasuarina littoralis 2 0.53 1 0.13 positive Billardiera scandens 2 0.53 2 0.05 positive Chiloglottis sylvestris 1 0.07 0 0.00 positive Eucalyptus globoidea 4 0.73 4 0.03 positive Eucalyptus punctata 4 1.00 4 0.31 positive Exocarpos strictus 2 0.53 2 0.15 positive Gonocarpus tetragynus 2 0.53 2 0.24 positive Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea 3 0.53 2 0.27 positive Kunzea ericoides 1 0.07 0 0.00 positive Microlaena stipoides 2 0.67 2 0.41 positive Olearia viscidula 2 0.73 2 0.33 positive Phyllanthus hirtellus 2 0.60 2 0.32 positive Pomax umbellata 2 0.73 2 0.31 positive Stypandra glauca 3 0.53 3 0.19 positive Austrodanthonia pilosa 1 0.56 2 0.02 uninformative Bossiaea obcordata 2 0.44 2 0.09 uninformative Clematis aristata 2 0.44 2 0.35 uninformative Dampiera purpurea 2 0.44 2 0.17 uninformative Echinopogon caespitosus var. caespitosus 1 0.44 2 0.07 uninformative Echinopogon ovatus 1 0.56 2 0.18 uninformative Entolasia stricta 1 0.56 2 0.35 uninformative Galium binifolium 2 0.44 1 0.06 uninformative Helichrysum elatum 1 0.56 2 0.04 uninformative Lagenifera gracilis 3 0.44 2 0.05 uninformative Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus 2 0.44 2 0.28 uninformative Lomandra glauca 2 0.44 2 0.14 uninformative Opercularia aspera 1 0.56 1 0.06 uninformative Oxalis perennans 2 0.44 2 0.13 uninformative Pratia purpurascens 1 0.56 2 0.33 uninformative Senecio species E 1 0.44 1 0.10 uninformative Veronica plebeia 2 0.44 2 0.20 uninformative Lomandra longifolia 2 0.53 2 0.58 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 97 MU31 Highlands Slopes Grey Gum- Stringybark Forest

Number of Sites: 9 No. taxa/plot: 48.4

 DESCRIPTION Highlands Slopes Grey Gum-Stringybark Forest is found on steep upper slopes and crests of the Wollondilly Gorge at elevations between 350 and 660 metres. The northern fall of the Wollondilly Gorge, beneath the Bindook Highlands, marks the most extensive area of this community. The forest is dominated by Eucalyptus punctata, E. agglomerata and E. eugenioides with E. cypellocarpa and E. elata sometimes occurring in more protected locations. The understorey is typically very open with a few scattered shrubs, which are most commonly Olearia viscidula, Poranthera microphylla, Bursaria spinosa and Acacia falciformis. The latter species may form a taller small tree layer. Exposed ground makes up a high proportion of the ground cover revealing shallow quartzite soils. Low growing herbs such as Stypandra glauca are common between the shrub and ground stratum. Lomandra longifolia, Dichondra repens, Veronica plebeia, Clematis aristata, Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana and Hypericum gramineum all are common on the ground but provide minimal vegetative cover. This community is strongly aligned to the Devonian Porphyry geologies that are not extensive outside of the Special Area. Steep slopes and poor access have protected this assemblage from the grazing pressures that afflict other communities occurring on these soils on lower slopes. However, soils remain highly erodable with considerable evidence of natural landslip observed amongst this community.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 19m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 26% SD 8.2 Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus eugenioides Minor associates: Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Eucalyptus elata, Eucalyptus piperita, Eucalyptus blaxlandii, Eucalyptus bosistoana, Eucalyptus sparsifolia, Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata

98 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 8.5% SD 4.7 Acacia falciformis Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2.3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 22% SD 7.6 Olearia viscidula, Poranthera microphylla, Bursaria spinosa, Lissanthe strigosa Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 31% SD 23.7 Stypandra glauca, Dichondra repens, Lomandra longifolia, Veronica plebeia, Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana, Clematis aristata, Hypericum gramineum, Billardiera scandens var. scandens, Pomax umbellata, Viola hederacea, Pratia purpurascens, Echinopogon ovatus, Dichelachne micrantha, Desmodium varians

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  An open forest dominated by Grey Gum (Eucalyptus punctata) with Stringybarks (E. agglomerata, E. eugenioides, E. blaxlandii or E. sparsifolia).  An open understorey with much exposed ground with the herb Nodding Blue Lily (Stypandra glauca) providing a common ground layer.  Steep upper slopes underneath the Bindook Highlands.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Tallygang Creek; New Yards Hill (Bindook Highlands); Jocks Creek

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 3627.58 44.1 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 1823.90 30.1 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 57.49 0.7 Yerranderie SCA 395.74 4.8 Total Reserved 5904.71 79.6 Total Unreserved 1676.88 22.1 Total Area within Warragamba Special 7581.59 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 5905 59.1 Reserve Total Area of Community >10000 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 4447.99 58.7 B Moderate 2177.91 28.7 C Heavy 955.69 12.6 Total 7581.59 100

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 99  THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Hakea dohertyi (E1), Acacia clunies-rossiae (V), Senecio macranthus (3RC-), Tetratheca neglecta (3RC-)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia falciformis 3 0.64 2 0.17 positive Austrodanthonia monticola 2 0.09 0 0.00 positive Brachyscome graminea 2 0.55 1 0.03 positive Bursaria spinosa 2 0.73 2 0.25 positive Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 3 0.55 2 0.25 positive Clematis aristata 2 0.82 2 0.34 positive Desmodium varians 2 0.64 2 0.28 positive Dianella revoluta var. revoluta 2 0.55 2 0.23 positive Dichelachne micrantha 3 0.55 2 0.11 positive Dichondra repens 3 0.91 3 0.36 positive Echinopogon ovatus 2 0.55 2 0.18 positive Eucalyptus agglomerata 4 0.55 4 0.14 positive Eucalyptus punctata 4 0.82 3 0.34 positive Galium gaudichaudii 2 0.55 2 0.06 positive Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea 2 0.64 2 0.26 positive Hydrocotyle laxiflora 2 0.64 2 0.20 positive Hypericum gramineum 2 0.73 2 0.14 positive Lissanthe strigosa 2 0.55 2 0.17 positive Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 2 0.64 2 0.36 positive Microlaena stipoides 2 0.55 2 0.36 positive Olearia viscidula 2 0.91 2 0.31 positive Oxalis perennans 2 0.55 2 0.13 positive Persoonia linearis 2 0.55 2 0.44 positive Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana 3 0.82 2 0.19 positive Poranthera microphylla 2 0.91 2 0.17 positive Pratia purpurascens 2 0.55 2 0.33 positive Stypandra glauca 4 0.91 3 0.20 positive Veronica plebeia 2 0.91 2 0.19 positive Viola hederacea 2 0.55 2 0.24 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.91 2 0.55 constant

100 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU32 Permian Footslopes Grassy Grey Box Forest

Number of Sites: 2 No. taxa/plot: 45.5

 DESCRIPTION Permian Footslopes Grassy Grey Box Forest is an open forest and woodland found on flat and gently sloping escarpment footslopes of the broad Burragorang Valley. Eucalyptus moluccana and E. tereticornis are prominent in this community which contrasts to their restricted distribution (especially E. moluccana) in surrounding vegetation communities. At times, Eucalyptus fibrosa and E. crebra may also be found amongst the tree layer. Smaller trees are also usually present including Acacia falcata, Exocarpos cupressiformis and Allocasuarina torulosa. Shrubs common to the adjoining dry woodlands are also present. These include Persoonia linearis, Lissanthe strigosa, Acacia ulicifolia and Leucopogon juniperinus. The ground cover supports an abundant cover of grasses such as Austrodanthonia tenuior, Cymbopogon refractus and Aristida vagans with the herb Dichondra repens also common. Permian Footslopes Grassy Grey Box Forest is found on Permian Geology (Siltstone, Shale and Sandstone). However, it is quite distinctive from other vegetation communities found on this substrate. This community is responding to variation in environmental influences including topographic position (footslopes rather than escarpment slopes), elevation and soil characteristics (grain size and parent material). Much of the suitable habitat for this community is in the lower Burragorang Valley and has been flooded since the construction of Warragamba Dam. Remnants can be observed on higher elevations around the foreshores of Lake Burragorang such as Lacys Creek, Tonalli River and Blattman Point. The “unusual occurrence” of Grey Box Forest was noted in the field observations of Lembit (1989) who also commented on the conservation importance of such remnants. Many examples of this community however, are regenerating from previous disturbance associated with land clearing and grazing across the valley. Permian Footslopes Grassy Grey Box Forest is closely related to other grassy box woodlands such as those found on the Cumberland Plain and on the richer Porphyry Soils in the Wollondilly Valley.

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 101  FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 21m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 35% SD 7.1 Eucalyptus moluccana, Eucalyptus tereticornis Minor associates: Eucalyptus fibrosa, Eucalyptus crebra, Acacia filicifolia, Allocasuarina torulosa Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 23% SD 24.7 Leucopogon juniperinus, Persoonia linearis, Jacksonia scoparia, Exocarpos cupressiformis, Daviesia ulicifolia, Lissanthe strigosa, Olearia viscidula, Acacia falcata, Acacia ulicifolia, Acacia parramattensis, Acacia longifolia subsp. longifolia, Astroloma humifusum Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 1m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 20% SD 7.1 Austrodanthonia tenuior, Cymbopogon refractus, Aristida vagans, Lomandra longifolia, Lomandra glauca, Solanum prinophyllum, Pomax umbellata, Glycine clandestina, Entolasia stricta, Dichondra repens, Dianella longifolia var. longifolia, Sporobolus creber, Vernonia cinerea var. cinerea, Gahnia aspera, Lepidosperma laterale, Pratia purpurascens

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  The presence and abundance of Grey Box (Eucalyptus moluccana) is the dominant feature of this community, as it is not found in other vegetation growing on Permian soils. Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis) is also a feature in the canopy.  This community has a predominantly grassy understorey. Shrub, rush and herbaceous species persist, some of which are also a feature distinguishing this community from those surrounding. Indicative understorey species include Austrodanthonia tenuior, Speargrasses (Aristida spp.), Forest Nightshade (Solanum prinophyllum), Mat-rushes (Lomandra spp.) and Wattles (Acacia spp.).  Found in disturbed isolated patches on escarpment footslopes and benches predominately around the foreshores of Lake Burragorang.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Footslopes in the Nattai River Valley; Tonalli River, Lacys Creek and Blattman Point (Disturbed remnants on the foreshores of Lake Burragorang)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 122.19 13.7 Burragorang SCA 9.01 1.0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 382.73 43.0 Nattai SCA 23.62 2.7 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 340.22 38.2 Total Reserved 877.77 98.5 Total Unreserved 13.32 1.5 Total Area within Warragamba Special 891.10 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 878 98.5 Reserve Total Area of Community 891 100

102 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 201.06 22.6 B Moderate 180.03 20.2 C Heavy 510.01 57.2 Total 891.10 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Hakea dohertyi (E1)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia falcata 2 0.50 1 0.01 positive Acacia ulicifolia 2 0.50 1 0.12 positive Alternanthera denticulata 2 0.50 2 0.00 positive Aristida vagans 2 1.00 2 0.12 positive Astroloma humifusum 3 0.50 2 0.06 positive Austrodanthonia tenuior 3 1.00 2 0.02 positive Bothriochloa decipiens 2 0.50 3 0.00 positive Brachycome angustifolia var. angustifolia 2 0.50 2 0.10 positive Cheilanthes austrotenuifolia 2 0.50 2 0.04 positive Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 2 0.50 2 0.25 positive Cymbopogon refractus 3 1.00 2 0.09 positive Daviesia ulicifolia 3 0.50 2 0.06 positive Dianella longifolia var. longifolia 3 0.50 1 0.03 positive Dichondra repens 2 1.00 3 0.36 positive Entolasia stricta 2 1.00 2 0.36 positive Eucalyptus fibrosa 4 1.00 4 0.07 positive Eucalyptus moluccana 5 1.00 4 0.04 positive Eucalyptus tereticornis 4 1.00 4 0.14 positive Gahnia aspera 3 0.50 2 0.09 positive Glycine clandestina 4 1.00 2 0.31 positive Hydrocotyle laxiflora 2 0.50 2 0.21 positive Jacksonia scoparia 2 0.50 2 0.04 positive Kennedia rubicunda 2 0.50 1 0.06 positive Lepidosperma laterale 3 0.50 2 0.26 positive Lissanthe strigosa 3 0.50 2 0.17 positive Lomandra glauca 2 1.00 2 0.14 positive Olearia viscidula 5 0.50 2 0.32 positive Panicum simile 2 0.50 2 0.06 positive Persoonia linearis 2 1.00 2 0.44 positive Pomax umbellata 2 1.00 2 0.30 positive Pratia purpurascens 3 0.50 2 0.34 positive Sporobolus creber 3 0.50 1 0.01 positive Vernonia cinerea var. cinerea 3 0.50 2 0.07 positive Lomandra longifolia 4 1.00 2 0.55 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 103 MU33 Tonalli Escarpment Dry Shrub Forest

Number of Sites: 4 No. taxa/plot: 42

 DESCRIPTION Tonalli Escarpment Dry Shrub Forest occurs on sandy colluvial soils that lie at the footslopes of the dramatic sandstone walls of the Tonalli Range. The moderately tall tree layer (to 25 metres) is dominated by Eucalyptus punctata and E. agglomerata, with E. piperita occurring less frequently. The shrub layer is heavily influenced by the sandy soil and as a result forms a dense stratum dominated by Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Hakea sericea, Persoonia levis and P. linearis. The ground cover includes low growing shrubs such as Phyllanthus hirtellus, Pimelea linifolia subsp. linifolia, Epacris pulchella and Lomatia silaifolia. Herb and grasses include Dianella caerulea, Entolasia stricta, Gonocarpus tetragynus, Lepidosperma laterale and Stypandra glauca. Tonalli Escarpment Dry Shrub Forest is closely related to other sandstone forests and woodlands (MU40, MU41, MU25 and MU26) and has not been described outside the Special Area.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 22m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 32% Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus piperita Minor associates: Corymbia gummifera, Eucalyptus eugenioides Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 4m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 66% Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium, Leptospermum trinervium, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Correa reflexa var. reflexa, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Hakea sericea, Epacris pulchella Ground covers: Mean Height 0.65m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 37% Dianella caerulea, Entolasia stricta, Gonocarpus tetragynus, Lomatia silaifolia, Microlaena stipoides, Lagenifera stipitata, Lepidosperma laterale, Lomandra longifolia, Stypandra glauca, Cassytha glabella forma glabella

104 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  A canopy dominated by Grey Gum (Eucalyptus punctata) and Blue-leaved Stringybark (E. agglomerata).  Occurring just under the residual Permian sandstone escarpments.  A dense shrub layer that features Banksias, Tea-trees (Leptospermum spp.) and Wattles (Acacia spp.).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Byrnes Gap (Tonalli Mountain)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 1273.10 83.7 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 130.92 8.6 Nattai NP 3.60 0.2 Nattai SCA 77.76 5.1 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 18.86 1.2 Total Reserved 1504.24 98.9 Total Unreserved 16.47 1.1 Total Area within Warragamba Special 1520.72 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 1504 98.9 Reserve Total Area of Community 1521 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 1267.86 83.4 B Moderate 251.11 16.5 C Heavy 1.75 0.1 Total 1520.72 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 105  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Adiantum aethiopicum 3 0.50 2 0.22 positive Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa 4 0.50 2 0.22 positive Caladenia carnea var. carnea 2 0.75 1 0.02 positive Cassytha glabella forma glabella 2 0.75 1 0.06 positive Correa reflexa var. reflexa 3 1.00 2 0.03 positive Dampiera purpurea 2 0.50 2 0.17 positive Dianella caerulea 3 1.00 2 0.35 positive Entolasia stricta 3 1.00 2 0.35 positive Epacris pulchella 2 0.75 2 0.04 positive Eucalyptus agglomerata 4 0.75 4 0.14 positive Eucalyptus punctata 4 1.00 3 0.34 positive Exocarpos strictus 3 0.50 2 0.13 positive Gonocarpus tetragynus 3 1.00 2 0.19 positive Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea 3 0.50 2 0.26 positive Hakea salicifolia 3 0.50 2 0.03 positive Hakea sericea 3 0.75 2 0.04 positive Helichrysum scorpioides 2 0.75 2 0.11 positive Hibbertia aspera subsp. aspera 3 0.75 2 0.11 positive Kennedia rubicunda 2 0.50 1 0.06 positive Lagenifera stipitata 2 1.00 2 0.10 positive Lepidosperma filiforme 3 0.50 2 0.00 positive Lepidosperma laterale 2 1.00 2 0.26 positive Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium 4 1.00 2 0.12 positive Leptospermum trinervium 3 0.50 3 0.17 positive Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus 2 1.00 2 0.28 positive Lomandra gracilis 3 0.50 2 0.06 positive Lomatia silaifolia 3 1.00 2 0.26 positive Microlaena stipoides 3 1.00 2 0.36 positive Opercularia hispida 3 0.75 1 0.08 positive Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana 2 0.50 2 0.26 positive Persoonia levis 2 0.50 2 0.15 positive Persoonia linearis 2 1.00 2 0.44 positive Phyllanthus hirtellus 3 0.75 2 0.28 positive Pimelea linifolia subsp. linifolia 3 0.75 2 0.07 positive Poranthera corymbosa 3 0.50 2 0.06 positive Pultenaea mollis 6 0.50 2 0.00 positive Pultenaea paleacea 3 0.50 3 0.00 positive Stackhousia viminea 2 0.75 1 0.04 positive Stypandra glauca 3 0.75 3 0.21 positive Viola hederacea 3 0.75 2 0.24 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 1.00 2 0.55 constant

106 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU34 Montane Sandstone Silvertop Ash Shrub Forest

Number of Sites: 11 No. taxa/plot: 30.4

 DESCRIPTION Favourable environments for Montane Sandstone Silvertop Ash Shrub Forest are exposed positions in the Northern Boyd Plateau region, at elevations between 800 and 1000 metres. It is a low open woodland found on the top of residual plateaux or the spurs and ridges running off them. The soil is skeletal, often rocky and contains a high proportion of sand material derived from the residual sedimentary rocks of the Permian and Devonian series (Sandstone and Quartzite). The prevalence of the sandy soil develops an understorey that contains a distinctive shrub and heath layer, while retaining tree species that closely resemble the composition of other exposed montane forests such as Montane Exposed Silvertop Ash Forest (MU35). Montane Sandstone Silvertop Ash Shrub Forest is typified by an open canopy of Eucalyptus sieberi and a number of stringybark species including E. sparsifolia, E. blaxlandii and E. agglomerata. Eucalyptus piperita and E. smithii were found in several locations (at high elevations in the north west of the Special Area) and may be approaching the western limit of their distribution. Shrubs are relatively abundant though only providing limited cover with species such as Acacia obtusifolia, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Monotoca scoparia, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa and Persoonia linearis most often recorded. Taller shrubs such as Hakea dactyloides and Allocasuarina littoralis are sometimes present. Ground covers also reflect the influence of the sandy substrate with species such as Caustis flexuosa often recorded along with Pomax umbellata, Dianella caerulea, Lomandra obliqua, Patersonia glabrata and Lomandra glauca. The high elevations of the southern Blue Mountains form the core of the distribution for this community. It is likely that similar communities extend as far north as the Newnes Plateau at similar elevations.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 21m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 25% SD 8.2 Eucalyptus sieberi, Eucalyptus sparsifolia, Eucalyptus blaxlandii Minor associates: Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus smithii, Eucalyptus piperita, Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 107 Tall Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 8% SD 6.5 Allocasuarina littoralis, Hakea dactyloides, Acacia terminalis, Acacia obtusifolia, Persoonia linearis, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa Low Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 12% SD 11.0 Lomatia silaifolia, Phyllanthus hirtellus, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Monotoca scoparia, Amperea xiphoclada, Podolobium ilicifolium, Dampiera purpurea Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 16% SD 10.4 Pomax umbellata, Dianella caerulea, Lomandra obliqua, Platysace lanceolata, Patersonia glabrata, Lomandra glauca, Pteridium esculentum, Caustis flexuosa, Billardiera scandens var. scandens, Xanthosia pilosa, Entolasia stricta, Pimelea linifolia subsp. linifolia, Xanthorrhoea resinifera.

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Open Woodland characterised by Silvertop Ash (Eucalyptus sieberi) with stringybarks such as Narrow-leaved Stringybark (E. sparsifolia) or Brown Stringybark (E. blaxlandii) commonly recorded.  Distinctive sandstone shrub layer that includes species such as Sunshine Wattle (Acacia terminalis), Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Monotoca scoparia, Black Sheoak (Allocasuarina littoralis), Platysace lanceolata, Pimelea linifolia subsp. linifolia, Xanthorrhoea resinifera and Caustis flexuosa.  A sandy soil surface with outcropping rock or an abundance of small surface rocks is often present. Common species colonising this surface include Mat-rushes (Lomandra spp.), Patersonia glabrata and Bracken (Pteridium esculentum).  The presence of a dry open woodland on plateau locations of the highlands area, especially in the northern Boyd Range area.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Crest of Mt. Moorilla; Black Range (Cronje Mountain area)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 1506.21 39.7 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 2251.37 59.4 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 3757.58 99.1 Total Unreserved 33.57 0.9 Total Area within Warragamba Special 3791.15 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 3758 80.9 Reserve Total Area of Community >4647 100

108 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 3456.96 91.2 B Moderate 322.96 8.5 C Heavy 11.23 0.3 Total 3791.15 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Pomaderris cotoneaster (E1)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Class Score Freq Score Freq Acacia obtusifolia 4 0.73 2 0.10 positive Amperea xiphoclada 2 0.64 2 0.10 positive Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa 2 0.64 2 0.21 positive Dianella caerulea 2 0.73 2 0.34 positive Eucalyptus sieberi 4 1.00 3 0.13 positive Eucalyptus sparsifolia 4 0.55 2 0.06 positive Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus 3 0.73 2 0.28 positive Lomandra glauca 2 0.64 2 0.13 positive Lomandra obliqua 3 0.64 2 0.19 positive Lomatia silaifolia 2 0.91 2 0.25 positive Monotoca scoparia 2 0.73 2 0.13 positive Patersonia glabrata 3 0.64 2 0.11 positive Persoonia linearis 2 0.73 2 0.44 positive Phyllanthus hirtellus 2 0.91 2 0.28 positive Podolobium ilicifolium 3 0.55 2 0.17 positive Pomax umbellata 2 0.82 2 0.29 positive Pteridium esculentum 2 0.55 2 0.36 positive Acacia terminalis 2 0.36 2 0.09 uninformative Billardiera scandens var. scandens 1 0.45 1 0.33 uninformative Caustis flexuosa 1 0.64 2 0.04 uninformative Dampiera purpurea 2 0.45 2 0.17 uninformative Entolasia stricta 2 0.36 2 0.36 uninformative Gonocarpus tetragynus 2 0.36 2 0.19 uninformative Goodenia heterophylla 1 0.36 2 0.03 uninformative Hakea dactyloides 4 0.36 2 0.12 uninformative Lomandra gracilis 2 0.36 2 0.05 uninformative Pimelea linifolia subsp. linifolia 2 0.36 2 0.07 uninformative Platysace lanceolata 2 0.45 2 0.05 uninformative Platysace linearifolia 2 0.36 2 0.06 uninformative Xanthorrhoea resinifera 2 0.36 2 0.03 uninformative Xanthosia pilosa 1 0.45 2 0.08 uninformative Lomandra longifolia 2 0.36 2 0.55 Negative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 109 MU35 Montane Exposed Silvertop Ash Forest

Number of Sites: 19 No. taxa/plot: 34.6

 DESCRIPTION Montane Exposed Silvertop Ash Forest occurs on high elevation plateaux and slopes at elevations between 800 and 950 metres. Broad ridges and spurs support a skeletal soil that contains a mix of both clay and siliceous material derived from a wide variety of parent rocks such as Silurian Phyllites and Sandstones, Bindook Porphyry, Ordovician Sediments and Granites. Generally, this community displays a moderately tall and open forest or woodland canopy that consistently includes Eucalyptus sieberi. A wide variety of other Eucalypt species co-occur depending on the elevation and degree of exposure. Most commonly Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata and E. blaxlandii are found in association as well as stunted E. cypellocarpa in the Bindook Highlands. The understorey is more often sparse with small trees absent and a low shrub layer characterised by Persoonia linearis, Podolobium ilicifolium, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus and Acacia obtusifolia. Isolated Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa may be present amongst rock outcrops or sandier soil. The ground cover features a good cover of Pteridium esculentum, amongst tussocks of Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana and small herbs and low shrubs such as Gonocarpus tetragynus, Hibbertia obtusifolia, Lomatia silaifolia, Dianella revoluta var. revoluta, Lomandra longifolia and L. multiflora subsp. multiflora.

Montane Exposed Silvertop Ash Forest is widely distributed outside the Special Area. A closely related community Forest Ecosystem 59 (NPWS, 2000a) extends from the Deua-Budawang Escarpment to the Kanangra Tableland on Ordovician Sediments between 700 and 900 metres in elevation. It is well represented in the reserve system in the north of its range although forest operations persist in some areas outside the reserves.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 23m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 35% SD 8.4 Eucalyptus sieberi, Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata, Eucalyptus blaxlandii Minor associates: Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Eucalyptus sparsifolia, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana, Eucalyptus obliqua, Eucalyptus viminalis

110 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 4m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 22% SD 5.8 Lomatia silaifolia, Hibbertia obtusifolia, Acacia obtusifolia, Persoonia linearis, Podolobium ilicifolium, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Hakea dactyloides, Dampiera purpurea, Amperea xiphoclada, Monotoca scoparia, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 36% SD 32.1 Pteridium esculentum, Lomandra longifolia, Gonocarpus tetragynus, Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana, Dianella revoluta var. revoluta, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora, Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea, Lomandra filiformis subsp. coriacea, Poranthera microphylla

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  A moderately tall forest dominated by Silvertop Ash (Eucalyptus sieberi), Narrow-leaved Peppermint (E. radiata subsp. radiata) and Brown Stringybark (E. blaxlandii).  A low sparse shrub layer and a ground cover of Bracken (Pteridium esculentum), Snowgrass (Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana) and Mat-rushes (Lomandra spp.).  Found at high elevations in the south western portion of the Special Area in exposed locations including upper slopes and broad plateau surfaces.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Nyanga Mountain (Bindook Highlands); Top of Plateau north from Little Wombeyan Creek

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 4435.36 63.8 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 1703.28 24.5 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 6138.64 88.4 Total Unreserved 809.28 11.6 Total Area within Warragamba Special 7259.12 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 8717 38.7 Reserve Total Area of Community 22520 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 4662.41 64.2 B Moderate 2419.04 33.3 C Heavy 177.67 2.4 Total 7259.12 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Hakea dohertyi (E1), Tetratheca neglecta (3RC-), Boronia rubiginosa (2RCa)

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 111  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Class Score Freq Score Freq Acacia decora 2 0.05 0 0.00 positive Boronia rubiginosa 2 0.05 0 0.00 positive Cheiranthera cyanea var. cyanea 1 0.05 0 0.00 positive Dianella revoluta var. revoluta 2 0.68 2 0.23 positive Eucalyptus blaxlandii 2 0.53 3 0.06 positive Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata 3 0.58 3 0.09 positive Eucalyptus sieberi 4 0.95 3 0.13 positive Gonocarpus tetragynus 2 0.95 2 0.18 positive Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea 2 0.58 2 0.26 positive Hibbertia obtusifolia 2 0.95 2 0.14 positive Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus 2 0.79 2 0.27 positive Lomandra filiformis subsp. coriacea 3 0.53 2 0.15 positive Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 2 0.63 2 0.36 positive Lomatia silaifolia 2 0.63 2 0.25 positive Persoonia linearis 2 0.79 2 0.43 positive Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana 2 0.74 2 0.18 positive Podolobium ilicifolium 2 0.58 2 0.17 positive Poranthera microphylla 2 0.53 2 0.17 positive Pteridium esculentum 3 1.00 2 0.35 positive Acacia obtusifolia 2 0.37 2 0.10 uninformative Billardiera scandens var. scandens 1 0.42 1 0.33 uninformative Clematis aristata 2 0.37 2 0.35 uninformative Dampiera purpurea 2 0.42 2 0.16 uninformative Dianella caerulea 2 0.47 2 0.35 uninformative Eucalyptus cypellocarpa 4 0.37 2 0.07 uninformative Hardenbergia violacea 1 0.42 2 0.27 uninformative Lomandra glauca 1 0.47 2 0.13 uninformative Lomandra obliqua 2 0.42 2 0.19 uninformative Lomandra longifolia 2 0.79 2 0.54 constant

112 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU36 Montane Slopes Stringybark Forest

Number of Sites: 3 No. taxa/plot: 35.3

 DESCRIPTION Montane Slopes Stringybark Forest is found on the Silurian and Devonian metasediments at elevations between 800 and 1000 metres. This community commonly occupies moderately sheltered positions on steep slopes or lower slopes of exposed gullies. Typically a dense stand of Eucalyptus blaxlandii occurs in combination with E. cypellocarpa, E. radiata subsp. radiata and E. punctata. Trees generally reach between 20 to 25 metres in height and support a relatively open canopy. The mid stratum supports a small tree and tall shrub layer. This includes Pittosporum undulatum, Acacia falciformis, Hakea salicifolia and Elaeocarpus reticulatus. A small shrub layer is also present and includes Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Notelaea longifolia forma longifolia, Bursaria spinosa and Persoonia linearis. The ground cover is typically sparse, usually comprising a number of grass and rush species including Notodanthonia longifolia, Dichelachne inaequiglumis, Stypandra glauca, Lomandra longifolia and Dianella caerulea. Exposed rocks are common on the forest floor. Montane Slopes Stringybark Forest extends from the higher elevations of the Blue Mountains National Park south into Kanangra Boyd. Much of its distribution is protected within the current reserve system.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 21m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 25% Eucalyptus blaxlandii, Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata Minor associates: Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Eucalyptus smithii, Eucalyptus mannifera subsp. mannifera, Eucalyptus punctata Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 12% Acacia falciformis, Pittosporum undulatum, Elaeocarpus reticulatus Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 25% Hakea salicifolia, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Persoonia linearis, Notelaea longifolia forma longifolia, Bursaria spinosa, Hakea dactyloides, Podolobium ilicifolium

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 113 Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.9m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 12% Lomandra longifolia, Stypandra glauca, Dendrobium striolatum, Dianella caerulea, Dichelachne inaequiglumis, Notodanthonia longifolia, Prostanthera incana, Pyrrosia rupestris, Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana, Stellaria pungens, Viola hederacea

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  An open forest dominated by Brown Stringybark (Eucalyptus blaxlandii).  A moderately dense small tree and shrub layer including Broad-leaf Hickory (Acacia falciformis). Willow-leaved Hakea (Hakea salicifolia) and Lance-leaf Beard-heath (Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus).  A ground surface almost absent of understorey species, with high litter load and an abundance of small rocks.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Slopes near the junction of Ti Willa and Dex Creek; Sheltered slopes of Limeburners Fire Trail

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 2311.67 32.0 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 4732.93 65.4 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 7044.60 97.4 Total Unreserved 189.04 2.6 Total Area within Warragamba Special 7233.64 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 7045 70.5 Reserve Total Area of Community >10000 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 6288.94 87.0 B Moderate 798.12 11.0 C Heavy 146.58 2.0 Total 7233.64 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Hakea dohertyi (E1), Acacia clunies-rossiae (V), Tetratheca neglecta (3RC-), Deyeuxia microseta (3K)

114 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Class Score Freq Score Freq Acacia falciformis 3 0.86 2 0.17 positive Bursaria spinosa 3 0.57 2 0.25 positive Deyeuxia microseta 3 0.14 0 0.00 positive Dianella caerulea 2 0.57 2 0.35 positive Echinopogon mckiei 2 0.14 0 0.00 positive Eucalyptus blaxlandii 4 0.71 2 0.06 positive Geitonoplesium cymosum 2 0.71 2 0.29 positive Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus 2 0.86 2 0.28 positive Notodanthonia longifolia 4 0.57 2 0.09 positive Stypandra glauca 3 1.00 3 0.21 positive Asplenium flabellifolium 1 0.43 2 0.22 uninformative Clematis aristata 2 0.43 2 0.35 uninformative Dendrobium striolatum 2 0.43 2 0.01 uninformative Dichelachne inaequiglumis 2 0.43 2 0.03 uninformative Elaeocarpus reticulatus 1 0.43 1 0.16 uninformative Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata 2 0.43 3 0.1 uninformative Goodenia ovata 3 0.43 2 0.06 uninformative Hakea salicifolia 4 0.43 3 0.03 uninformative Liparis reflexa 2 0.43 1 0.01 uninformative Notelaea longifolia forma longifolia 4 0.43 1 0.17 uninformative Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana 2 0.43 2 0.26 uninformative Persoonia linearis 1 1.00 2 0.44 uninformative Pittosporum undulatum 2 0.43 1 0.09 uninformative Poranthera microphylla 1 0.43 2 0.18 uninformative Prostanthera incana 1 0.43 1 0.00 uninformative Pyrrosia rupestris 2 0.43 2 0.05 uninformative Stellaria pungens 3 0.43 2 0.14 uninformative Viola hederacea 1 0.43 2 0.24 uninformative Lomandra longifolia 3 0.86 2 0.55 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 115 MU37 Montane Sandstone Dry Shrub Forest

Number of Sites: 5 No. taxa/plot: 36.4

 DESCRIPTION Montane Sandstone Dry Shrub Forest is located on precipitous slopes that descend below residual Permian Sandstone plateaux, such as those found near Mt. Cloudmaker. This community is most often found at higher elevations (above 1000 metres) on sheltered mid-slopes that appear to have been protected from fire for some time. Eroding sandstone material is found amongst the colluvial slopes with the soil generally shallow, sandy and rocky. Despite the sheltered position, the forest is not moist and is often found supporting a dense heath and shrub layer. The canopy is characterised by the dominance of two species Eucalyptus cypellocarpa and E radiata subsp. radiata with E. sieberi occurring at much lower abundance and less frequently. A dense shrub layer is often present and includes Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium, Persoonia linearis, Banksia marginata, B. spinulosa var. spinulosa, Acacia obtusifolia, Hakea salicifolia and Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus. The ground cover is generally ferny with very high localised abundance of Calochlaena dubia among the consistently occurring Pteridium esculentum. Other species include Gahnia microstachya, Poa meionectes, Dianella tasmanica, D. caerulea, Microlaena stipoides and Lomandra longifolia. This community shares a considerable number of species with those found in Montane Exposed Silvertop Ash Shrub Forest (MU34). As such distinguishing these communities is reliant upon an understanding of the dominance of the tree species and the properties of the soil. The distribution of this community outside of the Special Area is poorly understood as sampling of such remote environments is not often undertaken. It is likely that it will form a component of exposed montane forests described elsewhere.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 18m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 28% SD 7.8 Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata, Eucalyptus cypellocarpa Minor associates: Eucalyptus sieberi, Eucalyptus sparsifolia, Eucalyptus blaxlandii

116 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Tall Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 15% SD 9.2 Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium, Leptospermum trinervium, Elaeocarpus reticulatus, Hakea salicifolia, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Banksia marginata, Banksia serrata, Banksia cunninghamii subsp. cunninghamii, Acacia obtusifolia, Acacia falciformis, Persoonia linearis, Persoonia levis Low Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 1.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 13% SD 6.8 Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus, Amperea xiphoclada, Epacris pulchella, Lomatia silaifolia, Persoonia laurina subsp. intermedia, Daviesia ulicifolia, Monotoca scoparia Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 21% SD 19.5 Gonocarpus teucrioides, Dianella tasmanica, Dianella caerulea, Lomandra longifolia, Pteridium esculentum, Microlaena stipoides, Viola hederacea, Xanthosia pilosa, Lomandra glauca, Poa meionectes, Calochlaena dubia, Gleichenia dicarpa, Gahnia microstachya.

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  High elevations (c.1000 metres) on steep sheltered aspects on soils supporting a dominance of sandy material and often with high amount of surface rock.  A canopy dominated by Narrow-leaved Peppermint (Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata) and Mountain Grey Gum (E. cypellocarpa). A low abundance of Silvertop Ash (E. sieberi) helps separate this community from other vegetation occurring at high elevation.  A dense shrub-heath layer of Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Geebungs (Persoonia spp.) and Wattles (Acacia spp.).  An understorey that contains a high abundance of ferns such as Common Ground Fern (Calochlaena dubia) and Bracken (Pteridium esculentum) in combination with tussock grasses, lilies and herbs (including Dianella tasmanica and Microlaena stipoides).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Sheltered slopes south of Mt. Moorilla, near Mt. Cloudmaker; Upper Dex Creek

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 442.68 70.9 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 166.31 26.6 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 608.99 97.6 Total Unreserved 15.10 2.4 Total Area within Warragamba Special 624.09 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 609 97.6 Reserve Total Area of Community 624 100

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 117 CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 518.11 83.0 B Moderate 80.52 12.9 C Heavy 25.46 4.1 Total 624.09 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Gonocarpus longifolia (3RC-), Parahebe lithophila (2RC-)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Amperea xiphoclada 2 0.80 2 0.10 positive Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa 2 0.80 2 0.23 positive Dianella caerulea 3 0.80 2 0.34 positive Dianella tasmanica 2 0.80 2 0.03 positive Elaeocarpus reticulatus 2 0.80 1 0.16 positive Epacris pulchella 2 0.80 2 0.04 positive Eucalyptus cypellocarpa 4 1.00 3 0.06 positive Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata 5 1.00 3 0.08 positive Gonocarpus teucrioides 3 1.00 2 0.13 positive Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium 4 1.00 2 0.12 positive Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus 3 1.00 2 0.27 positive Lomatia silaifolia 2 0.80 2 0.27 positive Microlaena stipoides 2 0.60 2 0.41 positive Monotoca albens MS 4 0.20 0 0.00 positive Persoonia laurina subsp. intermedia 2 0.80 1 0.02 positive Poa meionectes 4 0.60 3 0.04 positive Pteridium esculentum 3 0.80 2 0.37 positive Xanthorrhoea australis 2 0.20 0 0.00 positive Xanthosia pilosa 2 0.60 2 0.09 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 1.00 2 0.57 constant

118 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU38 Oakdale Alluvial Rough-barked Apple Forest

Number of Sites: 7 No. taxa/plot: 47.4

 DESCRIPTION Oakdale Alluvial Rough-barked Apple Forest occurs in the Werriberri Catchment around the townships of Oakdale and The Oaks. It is found on undulating country in association with drainage depressions near the interface of Wianamatta Shale and Sandstones of the Mittagong Formation. The canopy can include Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus eugenioides and tall E. deanei. Eucalyptus tereticornis may also occur, particularly where the community grades into shale-based alluvium. A tall small tree layer of Allocasuarina torulosa and Acacia floribunda occurs above shrubs such as Acacia parramattensis, Olearia viscidula, Breynia oblongifolia and Bursaria spinosa. Common species in the ground layer include a dense cover of Microlaena stipoides with Pteridium esculentum, Dichondra repens, Pratia purpurascens, Entolasia marginata, Solanum prinophyllum, Adiantum aethiopicum and Echinopogon caespitosus var. caespitosus. The presence of sandy material in this alluvium distinguishes the community from those found on heavier shale soils such as across the Cumberland Plain. It is transitional in its floristic characteristics, sharing species between those on shales and those where the alluvium is sandier in nature, such as Dry Alluvial Paperbark Woodland (MU49). Elsewhere in the Bioregion, closely related communities occur on similar alluviums near Winmalee, Glenbrook and near the Coloul Ranges in Wollemi National Park (Gellie and McRae, 1995). Clearing and weed infestation continue to be the biggest threats to this community.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 21m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 27% SD 9.5 Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus deanei Minor associates: Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus elata, Eucalyptus crebra, Eucalyptus pilularis, Eucalyptus piperita, Eucalyptus moluccana, Eucalyptus quadrangulata, Eucalyptus amplifolia subsp. amplifolia, Eucalyptus globoidea Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 12m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 30% SD 11.5 Acacia floribunda, Allocasuarina torulosa, Backhousia myrtifolia, Melaleuca styphelioides, Allocasuarina littoralis, Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus, Ficus rubiginosa Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 4.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 26% SD 15.2 Acacia parramattensis, Olearia viscidula, Bursaria spinosa, Clerodendrum tomentosum, Ozothamnus diosmifolius, Breynia oblongifolia Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 1m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 82% SD 9.8 Microlaena stipoides, Entolasia marginata, Pteridium esculentum, Dichondra repens, Pratia purpurascens, Solanum prinophyllum, Adiantum aethiopicum, Echinopogon caespitosus var. caespitosus, Sigesbeckia orientalis subsp. orientalis, Glycine microphylla, Desmodium varians, Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides, Morinda jasminoides, Oplismenus aemulus, Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Undulating country in the Oakdale area along the eastern boundary of the Special Area.  A mix of Shale and Sandstone based alluvium found in proximity to Sandstone from the Mittagong Formation and residual Shale caps of Wianamatta series.

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 119  Prominence of Rough-barked Apple (Angophora floribunda), Mountain Blue Gum (Eucalyptus deanei), Thin-leaved Stringybark (E. eugenioides), Forest Oak (Allocasuarina torulosa) and White Sally (Acacia floribunda).  An abundance of tall shrubs that includes Sydney Green Wattle (Acacia parramattensis), Wallaby Weed (Olearia viscidula) and Blackthorn (Bursaria spinosa).  A dense ground cover that is dominated by grasses Bordered Panic (Entolasia marginata) and Microlaena stipoides. Fern species, such as Bracken (Pteridium esculentum) and Common Maidenhair (Adiantum aethiopicum), and herbaceous plants including Kidney Weed (Dichondra repens) are also abundant.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Restricted to undulating country around the townships of Oakdale and The Oaks

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0 0 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 8.73 20.8 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 8.73 20.8 Total Unreserved 33.22 79.2 Total Area within Warragamba Special 41.94 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >500 50 Reserve Total Area of Community >1000 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 31.32 74.7 B Moderate 9.64 23.0 C Heavy 0.98 2.3 Total 41.94 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

120 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia floribunda 2 0.64 2 0.05 positive Acacia parramattensis 2 0.82 2 0.19 positive Adiantum aethiopicum 3 0.64 2 0.22 positive Allocasuarina torulosa 4 0.55 3 0.17 positive Angophora floribunda 4 0.64 2 0.11 positive Bursaria spinosa 4 0.64 3 0.34 positive Clematis glycinoides 3 0.55 2 0.02 positive Desmodium varians 2 0.64 2 0.40 positive Echinopogon caespitosus var. caespitosus 2 0.64 2 0.02 positive Entolasia marginata 3 0.91 2 0.21 positive Eucalyptus eugenioides 4 0.55 3 0.16 positive Glycine microphylla 2 0.64 2 0.19 positive Microlaena stipoides 5 1.00 2 0.16 positive Morinda jasminoides 2 0.55 2 0.06 positive Olearia viscidula 3 0.73 2 0.23 positive Oplismenus aemulus 2 0.55 2 0.17 positive Pratia purpurascens 2 0.82 2 0.42 positive Pteridium esculentum 3 0.91 2 0.24 positive Sigesbeckia orientalis subsp. orientalis 2 0.64 2 0.12 positive Dichondra repens 3 0.82 3 0.50 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 121 MU39 Tablelands River Oak Forest

Number of Sites: 15 No. taxa/plot: 54.1

 DESCRIPTION Tablelands River Oak Forest occurs throughout the Warragamba Special Area along the fringes of major watercourses and associated creek lines in broad valleys. Tall Casuarina cunninghamiana subsp. cunninghamiana form a narrow ribbon of vegetation on mobile alluvial sediments which settle amongst river boulders and pebbles. With increasing soil depth Angophora floribunda is common, often with a wide variety of other Eucalypt species. The understorey is highly variable depending on time since flooding, soil depth, disturbance and distance from waterline. Commonly, the ground cover features a layer of rapid recolonising herbs and grasses such as Microlaena stipoides, Dichondra repens, Lomandra longifolia and Oplismenus aemulus. Close to the water edge Juncus subsecundus, Ranunculus plebeius and R. lappaceus are found, with the former two unique to this community in the Special Area. Shrubs are sparse and may include Hymenanthera dentata, Ficus coronata and on rocky river banks, the small tree Tristaniopsis laurina. Twiners and vines are common on rocks and amongst the ground cover Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana and Stephania japonica var. discolor are typical. Tablelands River Oak Forest is a highly variable community, variations of it extend from the Tablelands to the Coast within the Sydney Basin Bioregion. Widespread clearing has depleted much of the original distribution, with existing areas often highly degraded by ongoing grazing pressures. Within the Special Area it is particularly vulnerable to degradation from weed invasion, due to the efficient ability of watercourses to spread seed. Feral pigs also feed and wallow on the deeper soils of the river banks which often support this community.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 26m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 35% SD 17.3 Casuarina cunninghamiana subsp. cunninghamiana Minor associates: Backhousia myrtifolia, Eucalyptus tereticornis, Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus deanei, Eucalyptus crebra, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus quadrangulata

122 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Small Trees/Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 21% SD 17 Hymenanthera dentata, Ficus coronata, Tristaniopsis laurina, Sigesbeckia orientalis subsp. orientalis Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 51% SD 30.3 Microlaena stipoides, Lomandra longifolia, Oplismenus aemulus, Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana, Dichondra repens, Entolasia marginata, Stephania japonica var. discolor, Rubus spp., Rumex brownii, Commelina cyanea, Isolepis inundata

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  A canopy dominated by River Oak (Casuarina cunninghamiana subsp. cunninghamiana) along the fringes of major watercourses.  An understorey dominated by herbs and grasses, but also containing vines and moisture loving small trees such as Ficus coronata and Tristaniopsis laurina.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS All major rivers within the Special Area as well as some of the broader tributaries, including Coxs, Kedumba, Wollondilly, Nattai, Little, Jenolan and Kowmung Rivers

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 928.92 27.6 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 519.39 15.0 Nattai NP 167.58 8.1 Nattai SCA 0.61 0.0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 52.55 2.2 Yerranderie SCA 307.39 12.8 Total Reserved 1976.44 65.6 Total Unreserved 1039.30 34.5 Total Area within Warragamba Special 3015.74 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 1796 17.0 Reserve Total Area of Community 11602 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 1112.93 36.9 B Moderate 920.64 30.5 C Heavy 982.17 32.6 Total 3015.74 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Acacia clunies-rossiae (V), Bossiaea oligosperma (V), Gonocarpus longifolius (3RC-), Senecio macranthus (3RC-)

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 123  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Adiantum aethiopicum 3 0.50 2 0.22 positive Amyema cambagei 1 0.13 0 0.00 positive Carex polyantha 2 0.06 0 0.00 positive Casuarina cunninghamiana subsp. cunninghamiana 5 0.88 3 0.02 positive Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides 2 0.56 2 0.16 positive Dichondra repens 2 0.69 3 0.36 positive Entolasia marginata 2 0.63 2 0.09 positive Geitonoplesium cymosum 2 0.50 2 0.29 positive Hymenanthera dentata 3 0.94 2 0.08 positive Leptospermum morrisonii 1 0.06 0 0.00 positive Microlaena stipoides 4 1.00 2 0.36 positive Oplismenus aemulus 3 0.75 2 0.07 positive Pellaea falcata 2 0.56 2 0.16 positive Potamogeton tricarinatus 4 0.06 0 0.00 positive Ranunculus plebeius 3 0.06 0 0.00 positive Rumex brownii 2 0.50 1 0.04 positive Sigesbeckia orientalis subsp. orientalis 2 0.50 2 0.13 positive Stephania japonica var. discolor 2 0.63 2 0.09 positive Urtica incisa 3 0.56 2 0.06 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.88 2 0.54 constant

124 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU40 Exposed Blue Mountains Sandstone Woodland

Number of Sites:30 No. taxa/plot: 45.3

 DESCRIPTION Exposed Blue Mountains Sandstone Woodland reaches a mean upper height of fifteen metres and is found at elevations above 600 metres on Triassic and Permian Sandstones and Conglomerates. Eucalyptus sclerophylla is a characteristic canopy species on rock benches, outcrops associated with ridgetops and exposed slopes. With increasing elevation and exposure Eucalyptus sieberi tends to gain prominence. Eucalyptus sparsifolia and E. piperita are commonly associated with either of the former species and may dominate individual sites. On Narrow Neck Peninsula and escarpment edges of Kings Tableland, Eucalyptus oreades is locally common. The shrub layer is prominent and reaches two to three metres in height. There are a high diversity of sclerophyllous species that include Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Leptospermum trinervium, Isopogon anemonifolius, Hakea dactyloides and Persoonia levis. Ground cover includes a mix of forbs such as Lomandra obliqua and Cyathochaeta diandra along with low shrubs like Lomatia silaifolia. Exposed rock may comprise a significant component of the ground cover. Exposed Blue Mountains Sandstone Woodland is closely related to other sandstone woodlands found throughout the Special Area. With higher elevations Corymbia gummifera and Eucalyptus punctata are virtually absent from the sandstones and the shrub Isopogon anemonifolius is a prominent feature of the heath stratum. Exposed Blue Mountains Sandstone Woodland is extensively distributed throughout the mid to upper areas of Blue Mountains National Park.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean upper Height 15m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 25% Eucalyptus sclerophylla, Eucalyptus sparsifolia, Eucalyptus piperita, Eucalyptus sieberi Minor associates; Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus punctata, Angophora costata, Eucalyptus globoidea, Eucalyptus blaxlandii, Corymbia eximia, Eucalyptus oreades, Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata, Eucalyptus oblonga, Corymbia gummifera

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 125 Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 33% Leptospermum trinervium, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Persoonia levis, Isopogon anemonifolius, Hakea dactyloides, Acacia terminalis, Bossiaea obcordata, Lambertia formosa Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 33% SD 18 Lomandra obliqua, Entolasia stricta, Lomatia silaifolia, Patersonia glabrata, Pomax umbellata, Caustis flexuosa, Amperea xiphoclada

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Open woodland dominated by Scribbly Gum (Eucalyptus sclerophylla).  Exposed sandstone rocky knolls and crests.  Shrubby understorey dominated by Proteaceae species such as Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Isopogon anemonifolius, Hakea dactyloides and Persoonia levis.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Notts Swamp (Erskine Range); Bushwalkers Hill and Little Cedar Gap (Narrow Neck Plateau); Tonalli Mountain; Lacys Tableland; Wanganderry Walls; Residual Permian outcrops on Scotts Main Range

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 2817.19 92.7 Burragorang SCA 74.45 2.4 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 63.73 2.1 Nattai NP 16.09 0.5 Nattai SCA 7.90 0.3 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0.07 0.0 Total Reserved 2979.43 98.0 Total Unreserved 62.04 2.0 Total Area within Warragamba Special 3041.47 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >15000 75.0 Reserve Total Area of Community >20000 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 1924.75 63.3 B Moderate 984.12 32.4 C Heavy 132.60 4.3 Total 3041.47 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Acacia flocktoniae (V), Acacia jonesii (3RCa), Eucalyptus apiculata (3RC-), Eucalyptus cunninghamii (2RCat), Hakea constablei (2RCa), Rupicola sprengelioides (2RC-t), Tetratheca neglecta (3RC-)

126 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia terminalis 2 0.50 2 0.09 positive Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa 3 0.97 2 0.21 positive Bossiaea heterophylla 2 0.50 2 0.02 positive Cyathochaeta diandra 4 0.90 2 0.06 positive Entolasia stricta 2 0.83 2 0.40 positive Eucalyptus piperita 4 0.57 4 0.16 positive Eucalyptus sclerophylla 4 0.63 4 0.04 positive Eucalyptus sparsifolia 4 0.53 2 0.05 positive Gompholobium virgatum var. aspalathoides 3 0.03 0 0.00 positive Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea 3 0.60 2 0.26 positive Grevillea oleoides 3 0.13 0 0.00 positive Hakea dactyloides 2 0.60 2 0.11 positive Hibbertia empetrifolia subsp. empetrifolia 2 0.50 2 0.09 positive Isopogon anemonifolius 3 0.63 2 0.04 positive Lambertia formosa 4 0.63 3 0.06 positive Leptospermum rotundifolium 2 0.03 0 0.00 positive Leptospermum trinervium 3 0.80 3 0.18 positive Leucochrysum albicans subsp. albicans 2 0.07 0 0.00 positive Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 2 0.70 2 0.38 positive Lomandra obliqua 3 0.93 2 0.19 positive Lomatia silaifolia 3 0.83 2 0.25 positive Monotoca scoparia 2 0.70 1 0.12 positive Patersonia glabrata 3 0.77 2 0.11 positive Persoonia levis 2 0.83 1 0.15 positive Phyllanthus hirtellus 2 0.70 2 0.31 positive Platysace ericoides 2 0.50 2 0.05 positive Pomaderris ligustrina subsp. ligustrina 1 0.07 0 0.00 positive Pomax umbellata 3 0.50 2 0.31 positive Lomandra longifolia 3 0.33 2 0.58 negative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 127 MU41 Exposed Burragorang Sandstone Shrub Woodland

Number of Sites: 32 No. taxa/plot: 43.0

 DESCRIPTION Exposed Burragorang Sandstone Shrub Woodland is extensively distributed across ridgetops of Nattai, Burragorang and Kings Tablelands on skeletal sandstone soils. It is a low open forest to woodland dominated by Eucalyptus piperita and Corymbia gummifera with Stringybarks (E. sparsifolia and E. globoidea). Eucalyptus sieberi occurs less frequently and at lower abundance. Angophora costata is often an associated tree species on the Narrabeen Sandstones found on the Kings Tableland. A relatively dense sandstone shrub and heath layer is usually dominated by Persoonia levis, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Hakea dactyloides, Acacia terminalis, Lambertia formosa and Leptospermum trinervium. Ground covers include Cyathochaeta diandra, Lomandra obliqua and Entolasia stricta amongst low shrubs such as Phyllanthus hirtellus, Bossiaea obcordata and Lomatia silaifolia.

Exposed Burragorang Sandstone Shrub Woodland occurs across Hawkesbury and Narrabeen Sandstones at elevations between 250 and 600 metres. The infertile sandy substrates that lie beneath this community are extensive across the Blue Mountains and Wollemi National Parks. Other vegetation communities found on sandstone are closely related. The distinguishing feature of Exposed Burragorang Sandstone Shrub Woodland is the increased abundance and diversity of sclerophyllous shrubs in the understorey.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 16m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 26% SD 8.9 Eucalyptus piperita, Corymbia gummifera, Angophora costata, Eucalyptus sieberi, Eucalyptus sparsifolia Minor associates: Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus burgessiana, Eucalyptus consideniana, Eucalyptus globoidea, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus resinifera subsp. resinifera, Eucalyptus rossii, Eucalyptus stricta, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera, Corymbia eximia, Eucalyptus sclerophylla

128 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Tall Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 30% SD 20.3 Leptospermum trinervium, Hakea dactyloides, Persoonia levis, Banksia serrata Low Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2.7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 42% SD 15.8 Lambertia formosa, Acacia terminalis, Acacia ulicifolia, Acacia linifolia, Bossiaea obcordata, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.9m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 22% SD 18.8 Cyathochaeta diandra, Lomatia silaifolia, Amperea xiphoclada var. xiphoclada, Caustis flexuosa, Entolasia stricta, Lepidosperma laterale, Lomandra obliqua, Platysace linearifolia, Patersonia sericea, Xanthosia tridentata

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Shallow sandy soils found across the sandstone ridges of the Nattai, Burragorang and Kings Tablelands.  A dense shrub and heath understorey typified by an abundance of Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Leptospermum trinervium and Mountain Devil (Lambertia formosa).  A low open tree cover of Sydney Peppermint (Eucalyptus piperita), Red Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera), Silvertop Ash (E. sieberi) and Stringybarks (E. sparsifolia, E. agglomerata and E. globoidea).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Ridges and exposed upper slopes of Wild Goat Plateau; Buxton Plateau; Burragorang Tableland; Kings Tableland

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0.32 0.0 Blue Mountains NP 2872.42 17.6 Burragorang SCA 3842.97 23.6 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 6715.09 41.3 Nattai SCA 615.77 3.8 Thirlmere Lakes NP 306.54 1.9 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 14353.11 88.2 Total Unreserved 1918.85 11.8 Total Area within Warragamba Special 16271.96 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS >25000 83.3 Reserve Total Area of Community >30000 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 10246.45 63.0 B Moderate 5735.37 35.2 C Heavy 290.14 1.8 Total 16271.96 100

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 129  THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Acacia baueri subsp. aspera (V), Persoonia acerosa (V), Pterostylis pulchella (V), Pultenaea glabra (V), Eucalyptus burgessiana (2RCa), Eucalyptus cunninghamii (2RCat), Hakea constablei (2RCa), Lomandra brevis (2RC-), Lissanthe sapida (3RCa), Monotoca ledifolia (3RC-), Pultenaea villifera (3RC-), Rupicola sprengelioides (2RC-t)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia linifolia 2 0.59 2 0.07 positive Acacia terminalis 2 0.72 2 0.07 positive Acacia ulicifolia 2 0.69 1 0.11 positive Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa 3 1.00 2 0.19 positive Bossiaea obcordata 3 0.63 2 0.08 positive Callitris muelleri 1 0.03 0 0.00 positive Caustis flexuosa 3 0.50 2 0.03 positive Corymbia gummifera 4 0.84 4 0.10 positive Cyathochaeta diandra 3 0.63 3 0.06 positive Dillwynia retorta 2 0.50 2 0.06 positive Entolasia stricta 2 0.78 2 0.34 positive Epacris crassifolia 2 0.03 0 0.00 positive Eucalyptus piperita 4 0.75 4 0.13 positive Hakea dactyloides 4 0.66 2 0.11 positive Hypolaena fastigiata 4 0.03 0 0.00 positive Lambertia formosa 4 0.84 3 0.04 positive Lepidosperma laterale 2 0.63 2 0.25 positive Leptospermum trinervium 4 0.94 2 0.15 positive Lomandra obliqua 3 0.91 2 0.17 positive Lomatia silaifolia 2 0.72 2 0.25 positive Monotoca ledifolia 1 0.03 0 0.00 positive Persoonia levis 2 0.91 2 0.13 positive Phyllanthus hirtellus 2 0.91 2 0.26 positive Phyllota grandiflora 4 0.03 0 0.00 positive Pterostylis pulchella 4 0.03 0 0.00 positive Pultenaea villifera 4 0.06 0 0.00 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.13 2 0.56 negative

130 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU42 Rocky Sandstone Heath Woodland

Number of Sites: 5 No. taxa/plot: 31.6

 DESCRIPTION Rocky Sandstone Heath Woodland occurs on rocky cliff edges and precipitous, exposed slopes of the Hawkesbury and Narrabeen Sandstone Plateaux in the east and north of the Warragamba Special Area. Due to high exposure and infertile shallow rocky soils, the canopy is generally open and the trees are stunted. The sparse tree layer features Eucalyptus sieberi or E. piperita and can also include Angophora costata, Corymbia eximia or E. sclerophylla. The shrub layer is dominated by Proteaceae species such as Banksia serrata, Isopogon anethifolius, Persoonia linearis and Hakea dactyloides, with B. spinulosa var. spinulosa, Boronia ledifolia, Xanthorrhoea spp., Allocasuarina littoralis and Leptospermum trinervium also present. Herb cover is sparse and restricted to scattered Lomandra obliqua, L. multiflora subsp. multiflora, Amperea xiphoclada and Patersonia sericea. Steep upper slopes of massive sandstone escarpments and large exposed rock plates are commonly found in the east of the Special Area. Rocky Sandstone Heath Woodland is prominent in these harsh environments. It has been recorded at elevations up to 850 metres. In the Special Area it was found from Wanganderry Walls, along the Eastern Plateau to Ruined Castle Ridge in the Blue Mountains. It is likely that this community extends north into the Blue Mountains and Wollemi National Parks although it is not well described in existing literature.

 FLORISTIC SUMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 14m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 19% SD 10.8 Eucalyptus sieberi, Eucalyptus piperita Minor associates: Angophora costata, Corymbia eximia, Eucalyptus sclerophylla Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 5.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 21% SD 8.9 Leptospermum trinervium, Banksia serrata, Hakea dactyloides, Isopogon anethifolius, Persoonia linearis, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Dillwynia retorta, Allocasuarina littoralis, Xanthorrhoea resinifera, Boronia ledifolia Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 18% SD 28.1 Lomandra obliqua, Amperea xiphoclada, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora, Patersonia sericea

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 131  KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Cliff edges, precipitous rocky slopes and rock plates and benches.  Low open canopy with small stunted trees, frequently Silvertop Ash (Eucalyptus sieberi).  Scattered Proteaceae shrubs with a sparse dry ground layer.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Ruined Castle Ridge (Mount Solitary); North facing upper slopes of Trial Hill (Burragorang Tableland); Rocky scarps of Upper Martins Creek Canyon

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 306.70 14.0 Burragorang SCA 440.71 20.2 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 1304.92 59.8 Nattai SCA 65.89 3.0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 2118.22 97.0 Total Unreserved 65.96 3.0 Total Area within Warragamba Special 2184.18 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 2118 90 Reserve Total Area of Community >2184 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 1992.68 91.2 B Moderate 189.86 8.7 C Heavy 1.64 0.1 Total 2184.18 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Persoonia bargoensis (E1), Lomandra brevis (2RC-), Lissanthe sapida (3RC-)

132 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Class Score Freq Score Freq Baeckea imbricata 2 0.20 0 0.00 positive Banksia serrata 4 0.80 2 0.05 positive Dillwynia retorta 3 0.60 2 0.07 positive Eucalyptus piperita 4 0.80 4 0.15 positive Eucalyptus sieberi 4 1.00 4 0.14 positive Hakea dactyloides 2 0.80 2 0.12 positive Hibbertia monogyna 2 0.20 0 0.00 positive Isopogon anethifolius 2 0.80 1 0.01 positive Lambertia formosa 2 0.60 4 0.06 positive Leptospermum trinervium 3 1.00 3 0.17 positive Lomandra obliqua 3 0.80 2 0.19 positive Persoonia bargoensis 1 0.20 0 0.00 positive Persoonia linearis 2 0.80 2 0.44 positive Schoenus lepidosperma subsp. pachylepis 1 0.20 0 0.00 positive Acacia suaveolens 2 0.40 1 0.04 uninformative Acacia terminalis 1 0.60 2 0.09 uninformative Allocasuarina littoralis 1 0.60 2 0.13 uninformative Angophora costata 4 0.40 4 0.10 uninformative Astrotricha longifolia 3 0.40 2 0.01 uninformative Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa 1 0.80 2 0.22 uninformative Boronia ledifolia 1 1.00 2 0.05 uninformative Bossiaea obcordata 5 0.40 2 0.09 uninformative Bossiaea rhombifolia subsp. rhombifolia 3 0.40 4 0.02 uninformative Gompholobium grandiflorum 1 0.60 1 0.02 uninformative Lepidosperma laterale 2 0.40 2 0.26 uninformative Leucopogon setiger 4 0.40 1 0.02 uninformative Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 1 0.60 2 0.36 uninformative Lomatia silaifolia 1 0.40 2 0.26 uninformative Patersonia sericea 3 0.40 2 0.08 uninformative Phyllanthus hirtellus 1 0.40 2 0.28 uninformative Xanthorrhoea resinifera 3 0.40 2 0.04 uninformative Xanthosia pilosa 2 0.40 2 0.08 uninformative Lomandra longifolia 0 0.00 2 0.55 negative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 133 MU43 Tablelands Exposed Silvertop Ash- Brittle Gum Woodland

Number of Sites: 9 No. taxa/plot: 27.3

 DESCRIPTION Tablelands Exposed Silvertop Ash-Brittle Gum Woodland occurs on dry skeletal soils along ridges of the western boundary of the study area, in the high country of the Great Dividing Range. It occurs across Silurian and Ordovician sediments at elevations between 800 and 1200 metres. The canopy is frequently dominated by Eucalyptus sieberi with smaller stunted trees of E. radiata subsp. radiata, E. dives and E. mannifera subsp. mannifera occurring less frequently. At times dense stands of Eucalyptus sieberi exclude all other eucalypt species. The understorey is distinctly open, with a low scattered shrub layer present above tussocks of grass and herbs growing between fragments of shale and schist scattered across the ground. Shrub species Brachyloma daphnoides, Monotoca scoparia, Persoonia linearis, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa and Hibbertia obtusifolia are regularly limited to single plants within sites. Clumps of Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana grow amongst Lomandra filiformis subsp. coriacea, Gonocarpus tetragynus, Dianella revoluta var. revoluta and Pomax umbellata. A large proportion of the soil and rock is not covered by vegetation. Tablelands Exposed Silvertop Ash-Brittle Gum Woodland extends south along the Great Dividing Range in the east of the Central and Southern Tablelands (NPWS, 2000a). Within the Special Area it is most extensive south of Mt. Werong, along Limeburners Trail and south toward Little Wombeyan Creek. Despite the extensive distribution of this community throughout infertile soils of the eastern tablelands, it remains poorly conserved.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 17m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 30% SD 7.1 Eucalyptus sieberi, Eucalyptus dives Minor associates: Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata, Eucalyptus mannifera subsp. mannifera, Eucalyptus macrorhyncha, Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana, Eucalyptus rossii, Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus punctata Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2.4m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 6% 2.1 Monotoca scoparia, Persoonia linearis, Hibbertia obtusifolia, Brachyloma daphnoides, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 28% SD 18.9 Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana, Lomandra filiformis subsp. coriacea, Gonocarpus tetragynus, Dianella revoluta var. revoluta, Lomandra obliqua, Pomax umbellata, Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea

134 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  On skeletal soils along ridges and exposed slopes of the very high country along the Great Dividing Range, south of Mt. Werong.  An open forest or woodland dominated by Silvertop Ash (Eucalyptus sieberi). The presence of Broad-leaved Peppermint (E. dives), usually as a small or thin diameter tree indicates the drier cooler environments, separates the community from exposed Silvertop Ash Forests found at lower elevations east of Mt. Werong.  A low open shrub layer characterised by Tussock Grass (Poa spp.) growing amongst scattered broken rocks and outcroppings.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS At the junction of Speary Ridge with Mount Fatigue Fire Trail

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 22.60 67.3 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 22.60 67.7 Total Unreserved 10.97 32.7 Total Area within Warragamba Special 33.57 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 6313 9.6 Reserve Total Area of Community 66046 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 11.22 33.4 B Moderate 22.35 66.6 C Heavy 0 0 Total 33.57 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 135  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Class Score Freq Score Freq Aristida calycina 1 0.11 0 0.00 positive Dianella revoluta var. revoluta 2 0.67 2 0.25 positive Eucalyptus dives 2 0.56 3 0.02 positive Eucalyptus mannifera subsp. mannifera 4 0.11 0 0.00 positive Eucalyptus sieberi 4 0.89 4 0.12 positive Gonocarpus tetragynus 2 0.89 2 0.24 positive Hakea laevipes subsp. laevipes 2 0.11 0 0.00 positive Hibbertia obtusifolia 2 0.89 2 0.15 positive Hovea linearis 2 0.89 1 0.10 positive Lomandra filiformis subsp. coriacea 3 0.78 2 0.19 positive Lomandra obliqua 2 0.56 2 0.21 positive Monotoca scoparia 2 0.89 1 0.13 positive Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana 3 0.78 3 0.19 positive Pomax umbellata 2 0.56 2 0.31 positive Lomandra longifolia 4 0.22 2 0.58 negative

136 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU44 Tablelands Black Sally Woodland

Number of Sites: 3 No. taxa/plot: 22.0

 DESCRIPTION Tablelands Black Sally Woodland occurs on moist soils associated with cold air sinks and alluvial bogs at high elevations. It forms a low open woodland to a height up to fifteen metres and is dominated by Eucalyptus stellulata with species such as E. pauciflora and E. dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana as common associates. The presence of scattered to dense Leptospermum obovatum reflects the boggy, peaty soils associated with alluvial back swamps and frost hollows. The ground cover is mostly open with tussocks of Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei and P. sieberiana var. sieberiana co-occuring with sedges such as Carex appressa. NPWS (2000a) indicate that a closely related community (Forest Ecosystem 146) has been heavily cleared from much of its original distribution across the central and southern tablelands. It is also poorly represented within the current reserve system. Areas within the Special Area are limited to a number of isolated patches along the Murruin Range and near Mt. Werong with the biggest patch found at Limeburners Flat. Clearing has affected extensive areas at this site and it continues to show heavy disturbance from four wheel driving activities. Like much of the Tableland Bogs and Swamps, evidence of disturbance by pigs is also widespread.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Approximate Height 12-20m. Approximate Canopy Cover 15–30% Eucalyptus stellulata, Eucalyptus pauciflora Minor associates: Eucalyptus aggregata, Eucalyptus bridgesiana, Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana Small Trees: Approximate Height 3-8m. Approximate Canopy Cover 5-15% Acacia melanoxylon Shrubs: Approximate Height 1-3m. Approximate Canopy Cover 10-30% Leptospermum obovatum, Acrotriche serrulata Ground covers: Approximate Height 0-1m. Approximate Canopy Cover 70-100% Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei, Carex appressa, Themeda australis, Acaena novae-zelandiae, Oreomyrrhis eriopoda, Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana, Dichondra repens, Deyeuxia quadriseta, Epilobium gunnianum

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 137  KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  High elevation (above 800 metres) bogs, swamps and alluvial glats.  Presence of Black Sally (Eucalyptus stellulata) and Snow Gum (E. pauciflora) in a low open woodland.  Abundance of Tussock Grasses (Poa spp.) and Carex appressa amongst the ground cover.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Limeburners Flat (Murruin Creek)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0.96 30.6 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 0.96 30.6 Total Unreserved 2.18 69.4 Total Area within Warragamba Special 3.14 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 241 11.4 Reserve Total Area of Community 2111 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 0 0 B Moderate 0 0 C Heavy 3.14 100 Total 3.14 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

138 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Class Score Freq Score Freq Carex appressa 2 1.00 2 0.02 positive Eucalyptus pauciflora 3 0.67 2 0.02 positive Eucalyptus stellulata 4 1.00 1 0.00 positive Leptospermum obovatum 3 1.00 1 0.01 positive Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei 4 1.00 2 0.14 positive Themeda australis 2 1.00 2 0.08 positive Acaena novae-zelandiae 1 0.67 2 0.06 uninformative Acrotriche serrulata 1 0.67 1 0.01 uninformative Deyeuxia quadriseta 4 0.33 2 0.02 uninformative Eucalyptus aggregata 4 0.33 4 0.00 uninformative Oreomyrrhis eriopoda 1 0.67 2 0.01 uninformative Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana 4 0.33 2 0.19 uninformative Lomandra longifolia 0 0.00 2 0.55 negative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 139 MU45 Tablelands Snow Gum Woodland

Number of Sites: 3 No. taxa/plot: 42

 DESCRIPTION Tablelands Snow Gum Woodland occurs in a cold air sink near Bent Hook Swamp on the Bindook Highlands. It forms an open woodland-forest with a dense grassy understorey. Trees are predominantly Eucalyptus pauciflora and E. dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana with E. radiata subsp. radiata an occasional associate species. This community generally has a very simple understorey dominated by tussock grasses Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana and P. labillardieri var. labillardieri with Pteridium esculentum. Occasionally shrubs such as Leptospermum obovatum, Monotoca scoparia and Stellaria pungens are recorded. Tablelands Snow Gum Woodland is more extensively distributed outside of the Special Area along the undulating Plateaux between Oberon and Crookwell. It is closely related to Forest Ecosystem 96 (NPWS, 2000a) which indicates that this community is likely to be extensively cleared across its range and is poorly conserved with the current reserve system.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 18m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 26% Eucalyptus pauciflora, Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana, Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 5% Leptospermum obovatum, Monotoca scoparia, Stellaria pungens, Lomatia myricoides Ground covers: Mean Height 0.65m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 80% Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana, Poa labillardieri var. labillardieri, Viola hederacea, Pteridium esculentum

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Open woodland to forest comprised of Snow Gum (Eucalyptus pauciflora) and Mountain Gum (E. dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana).  A dense cover of tussock grasses (Poa spp.).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Bent Hook Swamps (Bindook Highlands)

140 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 2.45 7.3 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 3.10 9.3 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 5.55 16.6 Total Unreserved 27.90 83.4 Total Area within Warragamba Special 33.45 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 460 7.8 Reserve Total Area of Community 5879 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 0 0 B Moderate 2.41 7.2 C Heavy 31.04 92.8 Total 33.45 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Class Score Freq Score Freq Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana 5 1.00 3 0.08 positive Eucalyptus dives 3 0.50 3 0.02 positive Eucalyptus pauciflora 3 1.00 2 0.02 positive Monotoca scoparia 2 0.50 2 0.13 positive Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana 4 1.00 2 0.19 positive Pteridium esculentum 2 0.50 2 0.36 positive Stellaria pungens 2 0.50 2 0.14 positive Acrotriche serrulata 1 0.50 1 0.01 uninformative Geranium solanderi var. solanderi 1 0.50 2 0.12 uninformative Gonocarpus tetragynus 1 0.50 2 0.19 uninformative Lomatia myricoides 1 0.50 2 0.08 uninformative Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei 4 0.25 2 0.14 uninformative Veronica calycina 1 0.50 2 0.04 uninformative Viola betonicifolia 1 0.50 2 0.08 uninformative Viola hederacea 1 0.50 2 0.24 uninformative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 141 MU46 Kanangra Gorge Narrow-leaved Ironbark Woodland

Number of Sites: 18 No. taxa/plot: 54.5

 DESCRIPTION Kanangra Gorge Narrow-leaved Ironbark Woodland is found in the north west of the Special Area through the Coxs, Jenolan and lower Kowmung River Valleys. It is a low, dry open woodland with a scattered shrub layer and a mixed ground cover dominated mostly by grasses. Eucalyptus crebra is the most commonly recorded tree species and is found in association with E. punctata and E. tereticornis on less exposed aspects. Eucalyptus melliodora and E. sparsifolia may occur in isolated locations. Shrubs are common in the understorey though they provide minimal shelter for ground covering species. Bursaria spinosa, Lissanthe strigosa, Indigofera australis, Breynia oblongifolia and Olearia viscidula are dominant in the shrub layer. A taller small tree-shrub layer is sparse and may include Allocasuarina torulosa, Acacia implexa and Exocarpos strictus. The ground cover includes Cymbopogon refractus, Dianella revoluta var. revoluta, Cheilanthes distans, C. sieberi subsp. sieberi, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora, L. longifolia, Notodanthonia longifolia, Panicum effusum and Aristida vagans. Grasses and herbs are generally scattered amongst exposed soil and surface rock.

Kanangra Gorge Narrow-leaved Ironbark Woodland occurs at low to moderate elevations (between 150 and 550 metres) on exposed dry slopes. Typical geology is Devonian Quartzite of the Lambie Group, providing a sandy soil that is infertile, loosely held, often shallow and rocky. Low mean annual rainfall contributes to the harsh exposed environment of these gorges. This community is most closely related to other woodlands found in the Wollondilly Valley on Devonian geologies (Map Units 51, 52 and 53). It is not extensive outside of the Special Area with limited areas extending north up the Coxs River Valley. The northern extent of this community displays evidence of grazing pressure, soil erosion and weed invasion.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 20m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 22% SD 10.6 Eucalyptus crebra, Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus punctata Minor associates: Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus melliodora, Eucalyptus sparsifolia, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus sideroxylon

142 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 14% SD 13.1 Allocasuarina torulosa, Allocasuarina littoralis, Acacia implexa, Exocarpos strictus Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 16% SD 12.9 Bursaria spinosa, Lissanthe strigosa, Indigofera australis, Olearia viscidula, Hibbertia obtusifolia, Persoonia linearis, Breynia oblongifolia Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 32% SD 19.0 Cymbopogon refractus, Dianella revoluta var. revoluta, Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi, Hardenbergia violacea, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora, Lomandra longifolia, Pomax umbellata, Dichondra repens, Aristida vagans, Desmodium varians, Geitonoplesium cymosum, Notodanthonia longifolia, Panicum effusum, Pratia purpurascens, Cheilanthes distans

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  A dry open woodland dominated by Narrow-leaved Ironbark (Eucalyptus crebra) and Forest Oak (Allocasuarina torulosa) with a grassy, shrubby understorey.  A shrubby understorey of low cover including Blackthorn (Bursaria spinosa), Peach Heath (Lissanthe strigosa) and Wallaby Weed (Olearia viscidula).  A moderate abundance of ground cover species found between bare soil and loose surface rocks. Predominantly including Barb Wire Grass (Cymbopogon refractus), Speargrasses (Aristida spp.), Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi, Dianella revoluta var. revoluta and Mat-rushes (Lomandra spp.).  Northerly slopes around 150 to 550 metres elevation on metasediments in the north western sector of the Special Area

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Lower Gingra Range Area; Lower Breakfast Creek (Coxs River); Jenolan River Valley; Commodores Hill

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 9539.14 67.6 Burragorang SCA 25.54 0.2 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 4502.75 31.9 Nattai NP 3.62 0.0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 14071.05 99.8 Total Unreserved 32.46 0.2 Total Area within Warragamba Special 14103.50 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 14071 99.8 Reserve Total Area of Community >14104 100

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 143 CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 13287.51 94.2 B Moderate 760.83 5.4 C Heavy 55.16 0.4 Total 14103.50 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Acacia clunies-rossiae (V), Gonocarpus longifolius (3RC-), Myoporum bateae (3R), Ozothamnus adnatus (3KC-), Parahebe lithophila (2RC-), Senecio macranthus (3RC-)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia blakei subsp. diphylla 2 0.10 0 0.00 positive Allocasuarina torulosa 3 0.52 3 0.17 positive Aristida vagans 2 0.71 2 0.11 positive Bursaria spinosa 3 0.76 2 0.24 positive Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 2 0.86 2 0.24 positive Crassula decumbens var. decumbens 1 0.05 0 0.00 positive Cymbopogon refractus 3 0.95 2 0.08 positive Desmodium varians 2 0.71 2 0.27 positive Dianella revoluta var. revoluta 3 0.90 2 0.22 positive Dichondra repens 2 0.76 3 0.36 positive Eucalyptus crebra 4 0.81 2 0.09 positive Geitonoplesium cymosum 2 0.67 2 0.29 positive Hardenbergia violacea 2 0.81 2 0.26 positive Hibbertia obtusifolia 2 0.57 2 0.15 positive Indigofera australis 2 0.62 2 0.18 positive Lissanthe strigosa 2 0.71 2 0.16 positive Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 2 0.81 2 0.36 positive Notodanthonia longifolia 2 0.57 2 0.09 positive Olearia viscidula 3 0.57 2 0.32 positive Panicum effusum 2 0.57 2 0.02 positive Pomax umbellata 2 0.81 2 0.29 positive Pratia purpurascens 2 0.57 2 0.33 positive Senna clavigera 2 0.05 0 0.00 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.71 2 0.55 constant

144 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU47 Exposed Permian Sandstone Woodland

Number of Sites: 14 No. taxa/plot: 36.6

 DESCRIPTION Exposed Permian Sandstone Woodland occupies the driest most impoverished sites on the Permian Geologies (Berry Formation and Illawarra Coal Measures). It is typically associated with highly exposed locations on skeletal soils often with outcropping sandstone bedrock. This inhospitable habitat allows a low dry woodland to form that includes species typical of both Triassic Sandstone and Permian geology. Canopy height varies between eight and fifteen metres. While no single tree species is dominant Angophora bakeri and Corymbia gummifera are characteristic. The understorey contains a mix of shrub and heath species that includes Xylomelum pyriforme, Hovea linearis, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Leptospermum trinervium, Acacia linifolia Persoonia linearis, Phyllanthus hirtellus and Dillwynia retorta. The ground layer is mostly a mix of grasses and rushes often in low abundance. Typical species include Lomandra obliqua, L. filiformis subsp. filiformis, Entolasia stricta, Cyathochaeta diandra and Pomax umbellata. Rock boulders and exposed soil are common amongst the ground layer.

Unlike exposed shrubby woodlands found on the Hawkesbury and Narrabeen Sandstone Plateaux, this community is found on Sandstones associated with Permian geologies. As a result, exposed escarpment footslopes and narrow residual Permian Sandstone ridges form core areas for the distribution of this community. These areas are generally conspicuous as they are surrounded by the more fertile shales and siltstones found within the Permian geology. The vegetation growing adjacent often features Ironbarks (Eucalyptus fibrosa and/or E. crebra) associated with either Escarpment Slopes Dry Ironbark Woodland (MU48) or Escarpment Grey Gum Forest (MU14).

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 18.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 20% SD 8.1 Corymbia gummifera, Angophora bakeri Minor associates: Angophora costata, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus sclerophylla, Eucalyptus sparsifolia

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 145 Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 20% SD 9.5 Hovea linearis, Xylomelum pyriforme, Dillwynia phylicoides, Dillwynia retorta, Persoonia linearis, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Phyllanthus hirtellus, Leptospermum trinervium, Pimelea linifolia, Lomatia silaifolia, Acacia linifolia Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 17% SD 17.8 Xanthorrhoea media, Lomandra obliqua, Entolasia stricta, Pomax umbellata, Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea, Cyathochaeta diandra, Lomandra filiformis subsp. filiformis, Hardenbergia violacea, Stypandra glauca, Actinotus helianthi

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Locations on Permian sediments that are very dry and exposed with sandstone outcrops.  An understorey with a very sparse coverage of ground dwelling species and a distinctive composition of sandstone shrubs with Flax-leaved Wattle (Acacia linifolia), Prickly Moses (A. ulicifolia), Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa and Narrow-leaved Geebung (Persoonia linearis).  Low open woodland often featuring Narrow-leaved Apple (Angophora bakeri) and Red Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera) which are typically found on the most impoverished sites as well as on the Narrabeen and Hawkesbury Sandstone Plateaux.  Exposed spurs and ridgelines with a rocky soil surface, located on the Permian sediments in the lowlands around Lake Burragorang.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Exposed lowland areas around Lake Burragorang such as Emu Hill, Black Dog Ridge and Middle Flat

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 1357.14 80.4 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 1.25 0.1 Nattai NP 325.24 19.3 Nattai SCA 1.95 0.1 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 1685.58 99.9 Total Unreserved 1.69 0.1 Total Area within Warragamba Special 1687.27 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 1686 99.9 Reserve Total Area of Community 1687 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 1133.31 67.2 B Moderate 540.52 32.0 C Heavy 13.44 0.8 Total 1687.27 100

146 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Grevillea kedumbensis (2KCa)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Class Score Freq Score Freq Angophora bakeri 4 0.57 2 0.03 positive Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa 2 0.79 2 0.21 positive Corymbia gummifera 4 0.50 4 0.12 positive Cyathochaeta diandra 4 0.57 3 0.07 positive Entolasia stricta 2 0.93 2 0.35 positive Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea 2 0.79 2 0.26 positive Hovea linearis 2 0.71 1 0.08 positive Leptospermum trinervium 3 0.57 3 0.17 positive Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 2 0.64 2 0.36 positive Lomandra obliqua 2 1.00 2 0.19 positive Lomatia silaifolia 2 0.64 2 0.25 positive Persoonia linearis 2 0.93 2 0.43 positive Phyllanthus hirtellus 2 0.86 2 0.27 positive Pimelea linifolia 2 0.50 2 0.07 positive Podolobium ilicifolium 2 0.50 2 0.17 positive Pomax umbellata 2 0.86 2 0.29 positive Poranthera ericifolia 2 0.50 2 0.02 positive Xanthorrhoea media 2 0.64 1 0.03 positive Acacia linifolia 3 0.43 2 0.08 uninformative Acacia ulicifolia 1 0.50 1 0.12 uninformative Actinotus helianthi 2 0.43 2 0.02 uninformative Angophora costata 2 0.43 4 0.09 uninformative Dianella revoluta var. revoluta 2 0.36 2 0.23 uninformative Dillwynia retorta 3 0.43 2 0.07 uninformative Eucalyptus agglomerata 4 0.36 4 0.14 uninformative Eucalyptus punctata 1 0.43 3 0.34 uninformative Gompholobium grandiflorum 1 0.36 1 0.02 uninformative Hibbertia acicularis 1 0.43 1 0.03 uninformative Leucopogon lanceolatus var. lanceolatus 1 0.36 2 0.28 uninformative Leucopogon muticus 1 0.36 2 0.03 uninformative Lomandra filiformis subsp. filiformis 2 0.43 2 0.12 uninformative Patersonia longifolia 2 0.36 2 0.02 uninformative Stypandra glauca 2 0.36 3 0.21 uninformative Xylomelum pyriforme 1 0.50 2 0.07 uninformative Lomandra longifolia 0 0.00 2 0.56 negative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 147 MU48 Escarpment Slopes Dry Ironbark Woodland

Number of Sites: 47 No. taxa/plot: 46.1

 DESCRIPTION Escarpment Slopes Dry Ironbark Woodland is distributed extensively along exposed slopes of the steep escarpments that extend between the Kedumba and Wollondilly Valleys. It is generally found on dry colluvial slopes that mix eroded Triassic Sandstone material with the Permian sediments of the underlying strata (Sandstone, Siltstone, and Shale). The soil is generally shallow and infertile with some areas subject to slope erosion and landslip. Escarpment Slopes Dry Ironbark Woodland is dominated by a low, sparse canopy cover of Eucalyptus fibrosa, E. punctata, E. eugenioides and less frequently E. crebra. A very open small tree layer comprising Allocasuarina littoralis and Angophora bakeri are often found. The small tree Eucalyptus ralla was also found to be locally abundant in a number of locations. The understorey is characterised by a dry open shrub layer that consistently includes Persoonia linearis, Lissanthe strigosa and Notelea longifolia forma longifolia. The ground cover is more diverse, providing moderate cover, and includes Entolasia stricta, Aristida vagans, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora, L. obliqua, Dianella revoluta var. revoluta, Phyllanthus hirtellus and Pomax umbellata.

The Warragamba Special Area encompasses the entire distribution of Escarpment Slopes Dry Ironbark Woodland in the Sydney Basin Bioregion.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 20m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 26% SD 11.8 Eucalyptus fibrosa, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus crebra Minor associates: Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus sclerophylla Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 14% SD 12.9 Eucalyptus ralla, Allocasuarina littoralis, Angophora bakeri

148 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2.3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 12% SD 8.7 Persoonia linearis, Lissanthe strigosa, Notelaea longifola forma longifolia, Bursaria longisepala, Exocarpos strictus, Leptospermum trinervium, Podolobium ilicifolium, Grevillea kedumbensis, Grevillea longifolia, Grevillea aspleniifolia, Pultenaea myrtoides Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 29% SD 21.9 Aristida vagans, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora, Pomax umbellata, Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea, Dianella revoluta var. revoluta, Lomandra obliqua, Panicum simile, Lepidosperma laterale, Lepidosperma gunnii, Glycine clandestina, Billardiera scandens, Phyllanthus hirtellus

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Low Open Woodland on dry, exposed escarpment slopes that is characterised by Red Ironbark (Eucalyptus fibrosa), Grey Gum (E. punctata) and Thin-leaved Stringybark (E. eugenioides).  A low open dry shrub layer of Narrow-leaved Geebung (Persoonia linearis) and Peach Heath (Lissanthe strigosa).  A ground cover that includes Threeawn Speargrass (Aristida vagans), Two Colour Panic (Panicum simile) and Wiry Panic (Entolasia stricta).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Exposed rocky slopes in the Kedumba Valley, Popes Creek and Green Wattle Creek Areas; Escarpment Slopes in the Wollondilly Valley and in the Nattai and Little River Valleys

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 14011.29 60.7 Burragorang SCA 558.75 2.4 Joadja NR 24.66 0.1 Kanangra-Boyd NP 14.78 0.1 Nattai NP 5629.66 24.4 Nattai SCA 248.58 1.1 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 1777.75 7.7 Total Reserved 22265.47 96.5 Total Unreserved 807.67 3.5 Total Area within Warragamba Special 23073.15 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 22265 96.5 Reserve Total Area of Community 23073 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 13571.32 58.8 B Moderate 8602.10 37.3 C Heavy 899.73 3.9 Total 23073.15 100

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 149  THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Acacia clunies-rossiae (V), Prostanthera cineolifera (V), Tetratheca glandulosa (V), Grevillea kedumbensis (2KCa), Grevillea longifolia (2RC-), Lomandra brevis (2R), Ozothamnus adnatus (3KC-)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acianthus caudatus 2 0.02 0 0.00 positive Aristida vagans 2 0.81 2 0.09 positive Aristida warburgii 2 0.02 0 0.00 positive Bursaria longisepala 2 0.53 2 0.06 positive Caladenia catenata 1 0.02 0 0.00 positive Caladenia fuscata 1 0.09 0 0.00 positive Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 2 0.57 2 0.24 positive Chorizema parviflorum 1 0.02 0 0.00 positive Cryptandra spinescens 2 0.02 0 0.00 positive Dianella revoluta var. revoluta 2 0.77 2 0.21 positive Dodonaea falcata 2 0.06 0 0.00 positive Entolasia stricta 2 0.91 2 0.33 positive Eucalyptus fibrosa 4 0.77 2 0.04 positive Eucalyptus punctata 4 0.89 3 0.31 positive Eucalyptus ralla 4 0.02 0 0.00 positive Exocarpos strictus 2 0.51 2 0.12 positive Gompholobium uncinatum 1 0.02 0 0.00 positive Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea 2 0.83 2 0.24 positive Grevillea kedumbensis 2 0.09 0 0.00 positive Grevillea longifolia 3 0.02 0 0.00 positive Hardenbergia violacea 2 0.62 1 0.25 positive Hibbertia cistoidea 1 0.02 0 0.00 positive Lepidosperma laterale 2 0.51 2 0.25 positive Lissanthe strigosa 2 0.81 2 0.14 positive Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 2 0.85 2 0.34 positive Lyperanthus suaveolens 1 0.02 0 0.00 positive Macrozamia spiralis 1 0.02 0 0.00 positive Melaleuca erubescens 2 0.02 0 0.00 positive Monotaxis linifolia 2 0.02 0 0.00 positive Notelaea longifolia forma longifolia 2 0.62 1 0.15 positive Persoonia linearis 2 1.00 2 0.41 positive Phyllanthus hirtellus 2 0.85 2 0.26 positive Pomax umbellata 2 0.89 2 0.27 positive Pratia purpurascens 2 0.60 2 0.32 positive Pultenaea myrtoides 3 0.02 0 0.00 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.57 2 0.55 constant

150 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU49 Dry Alluvial Paperbark Woodland

Number of Sites: 13 No. taxa/plot: 58.5

 DESCRIPTION Dry Alluvial Paperbark Woodland is found along drainage networks throughout the undulating Permian substrates in the central parts of the Special Area. It is most extensive in the broad dry Burragorang and Kedumba Valleys. It is found on a sandy loam alluvium within and adjoining creeklines of small intermittent creeks as well as on valley flats of the larger creeks and rivers such as Butchers and Green Wattle Creeks. Melaleuca styphelioides is the prominent tree species in Dry Alluvial Paperbark Woodland and occurs amongst the mid to upper strata. The height of this stratum is between six and twelve metres and is variable in cover abundance depending on location. A wide variety of tree species may occupy the drainage line or adjoining vegetation. The most frequently recorded species include Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus eugenioides, E. tereticornis and Casuarina cunninghamiana subsp. cunninghamiana. Suitable habitat for this community is not particularly sheltered resulting in few mesic species in the shrub layer. Backhousia myrtifolia may occur amongst other shrubs and small trees such as Acacia parramattensis, Callistemon salignus, Breynia oblongifolia, Astrotricha latifolia, Olearia viscidula, Indigofera australis, Acacia longifolia subsp. longifolia and Bursaria spinosa. Common ground cover species include an abundance of grasses such as Microlaena stipoides, Entolasia marginata and E. stricta. The fern Adiantum aethiopicum and rush Lomandra longifolia and low shrub Rubus parvifolius are also frequently recorded.

Creeklines are invariably dry and narrow within these broad valleys. Dry Alluvial Paperbark Woodland is often found growing in the creekline itself and on its banks. At times underlying rocks are exposed from creek erosion. On the larger creek systems, alluvial flats develop that provide more extensive areas of suitable habitat. The Warragamba Special Area maintains the most extensive areas of this vegetation community in the Sydney Basin Bioregion.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 24m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 23% SD 11.0 Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus tereticornis Minor associates: Eucalyptus fibrosa, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus deanei, Eucalyptus sclerophylla, Eucalyptus piperita, Eucalyptus melliodora, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 151 Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 11.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 23% SD 13.8 Melaleuca styphelioides, Acacia parramattensis, Casuarina cunninghamiana subsp. cunninghamiana, Backhousia myrtifolia, Callistemon salignus, Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus, Allocasuarina torulosa, Allocasuarina littoralis, Pittosporum revolutum, Pittosporum undulatum, Acacia falciformis, Acacia filicifolia, Acacia binervia, Acacia maidenii, Acacia elata Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 23% SD 23.8 Breynia oblongifolia, Astrotricha latifolia, Olearia viscidula, Indigofera australis, Acacia longifolia subsp. longifolia, Bursaria spinosa, Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium, Persoonia linearis Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 43% SD 22.1 Adiantum aethiopicum, Microlaena stipoides, Dichondra repens, Lepidosperma laterale, Pratia purpurascens, Rubus parvifolius, Billardiera scandens var. scandens, Entolasia marginata, Entolasia stricta, Gahnia aspera, Hydrocotyle laxiflora, Veronica plebeia, Oplismenus imbecillis, Glycine clandestina, Lomandra longifolia, Pteridium esculentum

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  A dry grassy alluvial woodland with abundance of Prickly-leaved Tea-tree (Melaleuca styphelioides) and often dominated by Microlaena stipoides.  High diversity of tall shrub and small tree species including various Acacia species, such as Sydney Green Wattle (A. parramattensis), Sweet Willow Bottlebrush (Callistemon salignus), Astrotricha latifolia, Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium and Rough-barked Apple (Angophora floribunda).  Found on drainage lines of the Permian sediments in the dry Burragorang Valley, including gently sloping footslopes and alluvial flats.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Kedumba River; Lower Butchers Creek; Lower Green Wattle Creek; Bob Higgins Creek; Colemans Creek

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 326.41 50.6 Burragorang SCA 5.26 0.8 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 5.94 0.9 Nattai NP 199.17 30.9 Nattai SCA 3.52 0.5 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 64.16 10.0 Total Reserved 604.46 93.7 Total Unreserved 40.37 6.3 Total Area within Warragamba Special 644.83 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 604 93.7 Reserve Total Area of Community 645 100

152 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 377.01 58.4 B Moderate 96.52 15.0 C Heavy 171.30 26.6 Total 644.83 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Gonocarpus longifolius (3RC-)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia parramattensis 2 0.92 2 0.12 positive Adiantum aethiopicum 2 0.92 2 0.23 positive Angophora floribunda 3 0.54 2 0.09 positive Astrotricha latifolia 3 0.54 2 0.09 positive Backhousia myrtifolia 2 0.54 3 0.11 positive Billardiera scandens var. scandens 2 0.69 1 0.31 positive Breynia oblongifolia 2 0.69 1 0.19 positive Callistemon salignus 3 0.23 0 0.00 positive Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 2 0.54 2 0.23 positive Dichondra repens 3 0.77 3 0.38 positive Entolasia marginata 2 0.69 2 0.10 positive Entolasia stricta 2 0.69 2 0.41 positive Eriochloa pseudoacrotricha 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Eucalyptus eugenioides 3 0.54 4 0.13 positive Gahnia aspera 2 0.69 2 0.09 positive Hydrocotyle laxiflora 2 0.69 2 0.20 positive Imperata cylindrica var. major 2 0.54 1 0.06 positive Lepidosperma laterale 2 0.77 2 0.28 positive Melaleuca styphelioides 4 0.77 2 0.06 positive Microlaena stipoides 5 0.85 2 0.40 positive Olearia viscidula 2 0.54 2 0.33 positive Oplismenus imbecillis 3 0.62 2 0.16 positive Phebalium squamulosum subsp. squamulosum 2 0.08 0 0.00 positive Pratia purpurascens 2 0.77 2 0.32 positive Pseuderanthemum variabile 2 0.54 2 0.08 positive Pteridium esculentum 3 0.54 2 0.37 positive Rubus parvifolius 2 0.77 2 0.13 positive Veronica plebeia 2 0.69 2 0.23 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.77 2 0.57 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 153 MU50 Douglas Scarp Woodland Number of Sites: 4 No. taxa/plot: 41.3

 DESCRIPTION Douglas Scarp Woodland (Fisher et al., 1995) is a visually distinctive community occurring on the low-lying Permian sediments of the Jooriland Valley, near Murphys Flat. A distinctive bench or scarp forms on the westerly footslopes of the Wanganderry Walls. This scarp traces the transition between the Permian sediments and the Porphry sediments found throughout the valley below. This open grassy woodland is dominated by Eucalyptus crebra often with Callitris endlicheri occurring in the canopy. Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus moluccana, E. eugenioides, E. punctata and E. tereticornis are associated tree species. Acacia binervia makes the shrub layer very distinctive as a result of its blue foliage. Other shrubs such as, Leucopogon muticus, Astroloma humifusum, Lissanthe strigosa and Persoonia linearis are also present. The lowest stratum is particularly open and quite rocky with scattered herbs and grasses such as Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi, Cymbopogon refractus, Pomax umbellata, Lepidosperma laterale and Lomandra filiformis subsp. coriacea. The Douglas Scarp represents the most extensive area of this community. Smaller isolated occurrences are found on Policemans Point off Scotts Main Range. Fisher et al. (1995) suggest that infrequent fire may be important to the development of this community. It is a unique component of the Warragamba Special Area. Loosely aligned communities are found in dry rain shadow valleys in northern Wollemi and Goulburn River National Parks.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 19m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 22% SD 11.6 Eucalyptus crebra, Callitris endlicheri Minor associates: Eucalyptus moluccana, Angophora floribunda, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus tereticornis Small Trees/Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 10% SD 7.2 Leucopogon muticus, Acacia binervia, Astroloma humifusum, Lissanthe strigosa, Persoonia linearis, Acacia implexa, Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 20% SD 8.1 Pomax umbellata, Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi, Cymbopogon refractus, Lepidosperma laterale, Lomandra filiformis subsp. coriacea, Aristida vagans, Dichondra repens, Echinopogon ovatus

154 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  The rocky scarp known as Douglas Scarp which is very visible on the approach toward the Wollondilly Valley.  A canopy dominated by Narrow-leaved Ironbark (Eucalyptus crebra).  The cone shaped canopies of Black Cypress Pine (Callitris endlicheri) and the very blue leaved Coast Myall (Acacia binervia) are very distinct, and will be seen approaching Murphys Crossing from either side of the Wollondilly River.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Douglas Scarp (near Murphys Flat on the Wollondilly River)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 134.41 13.2 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 825.53 81.3 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 40.41 4.0 Total Reserved 1000.35 98.5 Total Unreserved 15.62 1.5 Total Area within Warragamba Special 1015.97 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 1000 98.5 Reserve Total Area of Community 1016 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 243.21 23.9 B Moderate 366.57 36.1 C Heavy 406.16 40.0 Total 1015.97 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 155  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia binervia 2 0.60 2 0.01 positive Aristida vagans 2 0.60 2 0.13 positive Astroloma humifusum 2 0.80 2 0.07 positive Callitris endlicheri 4 0.60 2 0.00 positive Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 3 0.80 2 0.23 positive Cymbopogon refractus 2 0.80 2 0.11 positive Dichondra repens 2 0.60 3 0.39 positive Echinopogon ovatus 2 0.60 2 0.21 positive Eucalyptus crebra 4 1.00 3 0.11 positive Lepidosperma laterale 2 0.80 2 0.28 positive Leucopogon muticus 4 0.80 1 0.04 positive Lissanthe strigosa 2 0.80 2 0.20 positive Lomandra filiformis subsp. coriacea 2 0.80 2 0.19 positive Persoonia linearis 2 0.60 2 0.45 positive Pomax umbellata 2 1.00 2 0.31 positive Vernonia cinerea var. cinerea 2 0.60 1 0.06 positive Veronica plebeia 2 0.60 2 0.24 positive Wahlenbergia gracilis 2 0.60 1 0.16 positive Lomandra longifolia 0 0.00 2 0.58 negative

156 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU51 Devonian Red Gum-Yellow Box Woodland

Number of Sites: 36 No. taxa/plot: 47.8

 DESCRIPTION Devonian Red Gum-Yellow Box Woodland is found in the dramatic, rugged landscape of the Wollondilly River Valley and surrounds at elevations between 300 and 800 metres. It is an open woodland reaching fifteen to twenty metres in height with a grassy and shrubby understorey. Eucalyptus tereticornis and E. melliodora are the dominant canopy species. Eucalyptus punctata and E. eugenioides sometimes occur on sheltered slopes. At higher elevations Eucalyptus bosistoana is often present around the heads of gullies, overlooking steep gorge slopes. The canopy is generally open, particularly on hill slopes. A shrub layer is clearly visible, with an abundance of thin-leaved species such as Olearia viscidula, Lissanthe strigosa, Bursaria spinosa and Cassinia laevis. A sparse small tree layer is occasionally present and includes Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus and Acacia implexa. The ground cover comprises a high diversity of grasses dominated by Dichelachne micrantha, Microlaena stipoides, Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei, P. sieberiana var. sieberiana and Aristida ramosa. Also present in the ground stratum is Dichondra repens, Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi and Lomandra longifolia. Soils are shallow, sandy clay loams that retain moderate levels of fertility and moisture, but are also vulnerable to erosion on most slopes. In these locations, soil and surface rock becomes exposed and often unstable, resulting in a sparse shrub cover and structural variation to the ground cover. On the steepest slopes, rock outcrops and scree slopes can be found. Extensive areas have been used for grazing activities with widespread clearing on gentle slopes and benches. Dense infestations of Serrated Tussock (Nassella trichotoma) are found on cleared land throughout the Wollondilly Valley.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 19m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 18% SD 7.9 Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus melliodora, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus punctata Minor associates: Eucalyptus moluccana, Eucalyptus bridgesiana, Eucalyptus agglomerata, Eucalyptus albens, Eucalyptus bosistoana, Eucalyptus macrorhyncha, Eucalyptus cypellocarpa, Eucalyptus blakelyi, Angophora floribunda

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 157 Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 5.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 12% SD 11.0 Acacia implexa, Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus, Allocasuarina verticillata Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 20% SD 18.0 Olearia viscidula, Lissanthe strigosa, Bursaria spinosa, Cassinia laevis Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 31% SD 22.1 Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi, Dichondra repens, Desmodium varians, Dichelachne micrantha, Clematis aristata, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora, Glycine clandestina, Hypericum gramineum, Aristida ramosa, Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei, Cheilanthes distans, Elymus scaber var. scaber, Microlaena stipoides, Hydrocotyle laxiflora.

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:

 The presence of Yellow Box (Eucalyptus melliodora) is an indicative species for this community. Grey Gum (E. punctata) and Thin-leaved Stringybark (E. eugenioides) also occur at a number of locations and are not as frequent in similar communities. Grey Box (E. moluccana) and White Box (E. albens) are virtually absent.  A shrubby understorey featuring Wallaby Weed (Olearia viscidula) and a diversity of grasses, characterised by Tussock Grasses (Poa spp.).  Most prominent at higher elevations and the more rugged locations of the Wollondilly Catchment (inside the Special Area). It is easily observed along the Wombeyan Caves Road.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Murruin Creek; Lords Mountain; Jocks Creek; Tallygang Plateau/Mountain; Hill slopes into the Wollondilly River downstream to Red Hill Creek; Lower Wingecarribee River.

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 2181.01 19.6 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 623.51 5.6 Nattai NP 95.92 0.9 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 561.08 5.0 Yerranderie SCA 628.84 5.6 Total Reserved 4090.36 36.7 Total Unreserved 7051.29 63.3 Total Area within Warragamba Special 11141.65 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 4090 36.7 Reserve Total Area of Community >11142 100

158 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 3204.67 28.8 B Moderate 2671.28 24.0 C Heavy 5265.70 47.2 Total 11141.65 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Ozothamnus adnatus (3KC-)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Aristida ramosa 3 0.64 2 0.07 positive Austrostipa setacea 2 0.03 0 0.00 positive Bursaria spinosa 2 0.64 2 0.20 positive Capillipedium parviflorum 1 0.03 0 0.00 positive Cassinia laevis 2 0.51 1 0.03 positive Centaurium spicatum 2 0.08 0 0.00 positive Cheilanthes distans 2 0.54 1 0.08 positive Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 3 0.97 2 0.20 positive Clematis aristata 2 0.69 2 0.31 positive Desmodium varians 2 0.77 2 0.27 positive Dichelachne micrantha 2 0.77 2 0.11 positive Dichondra repens 3 0.90 3 0.37 positive Echinopogon cheelii 2 0.03 0 0.00 positive Elymus scaber var. scaber 2 0.54 2 0.04 positive Eucalyptus melliodora 4 0.56 2 0.03 positive Eucalyptus tereticornis 4 0.64 4 0.15 positive Glycine clandestina 2 0.67 2 0.31 positive Hydrocotyle laxiflora 2 0.51 2 0.20 positive Hypericum gramineum 2 0.67 2 0.15 positive Lissanthe strigosa 3 0.77 2 0.18 positive Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 2 0.69 2 0.38 positive Mentha laxiflora 3 0.03 0 0.00 positive Microlaena stipoides 3 0.51 2 0.41 positive Olearia viscidula 3 0.92 2 0.31 positive Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei 3 0.62 2 0.12 positive Pomaderris angustifolia 2 0.03 0 0.00 positive Vittadinia tenuissima 1 0.03 0 0.00 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.77 2 0.57 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 159 MU52 Devonian Red Gum-Ironbark Woodland

Number of Sites: 11 No. taxa/plot: 49.5

 DESCRIPTION Devonian Red Gum-Ironbark Woodland is a tall, open woodland found in the Jooriland and Lower Wollondilly Valleys. It occupies exposed positions on undulating foothills derived of fertile Porphyry Sediments. These areas include some of the lowest elevations found within the Special Area and receive low annual rainfall and experience high mean annual temperatures relative to other parts of the catchment. These habitat features produce a community that is not dissimilar to Grassy Box- Ironbark Woodlands that are common on fertile valleys and plateaux of the Central Tablelands and the Cumberland Plain. Eucalyptus tereticornis dominates the canopy sometimes with a local abundance of box trees E. moluccana, E. melliodora and E. albens. Eucalyptus crebra is also characteristic of this community being absent from other Porphyry Box woodlands. However, it rarely dominates, occurring consistently but at low abundance. A dry sparse shrub layer includes species such as Astroloma humifusum, Acacia implexa, Olearia viscidula and Bursaria spinosa. The ground cover is more characteristic with a high diversity and abundance of grasses such as Cymbopogon refractus, Aristida ramosa, Microlaena stipoides, Aristida vagans, Oxalis perennans and Panicum effusum. Herbs and forbs such as Dichondra repens and Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora are also prevalent.

Devonian Red Gum-Ironbark Woodland has been extensively cleared and grazed with many of the remaining areas being highly fragmented. Natural regeneration is occurring, although grazing pressure from cattle and kangaroos suppresses the recovery in some areas. The profusion of Serrated Tussock (Nassella trichotoma) that is extensive on these richer soils to the south of the valley represents a serious threat to this community were it to establish in the lower Wollondilly Valley. Despite minor differences in canopy and shrub species, Devonian Red Gum-Ironbark Woodland forms a component of the White Box Yellow Box Blakely’s Red Gum Woodland, Endangered Ecological Community listed on Part 3 of Schedule 1 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995.

160 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 19m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 28% SD 9.3 Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus crebra, Eucalyptus melliodora, Eucalyptus moluccana Minor associates: Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus albens, Angophora floribunda, Allocasuarina littoralis, Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus Small Trees/Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 15% SD 8.3 Astroloma humifusum, Acacia implexa, Olearia viscidula, Lissanthe strigosa, Bursaria spinosa, Breynia oblongifolia, Exocarpos strictus Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 51% SD 25.4 Dichondra repens, Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi, Cymbopogon refractus, Aristida ramosa, Microlaena stipoides, Cheilanthes distans, Desmodium varians, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora, Wahlenbergia gracilis, Aristida vagans, Desmodium brachypodum, Hypericum gramineum, Digitaria diffusa, Eragrostis leptostachya, Solanum prinophyllum

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  A tall open woodland dominated by Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis) with White, Grey and Yellow Box (E. albens; E. moluccana; E. melliodora). Narrow-leaved Ironbark (E. crebra) is useful in distinguishing this community from others found on richer Porphyry geologies.  Open understorey characterised by an abundance and diversity of grasses including Barbed Wire Grass (Cymbopogon refractus), Speargrasses (Aristida spp.), Microlaena stipoides and Digitaria diffusa.  Fragmented remnants, regenerating from previous clearing in the Jooriland and Lower Wollondilly Valleys.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Brynes Creek; Jooriland Valley; Lower Wollondilly River Valley

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT Forms a component of the White Box Yellow Box Blakely’s Red Gum Woodland, an Endangered Ecological Community listed under the Threatened Species Act (1995). RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 331.73 7.0 Burragorang SCA 70.83 1.5 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 695.35 14.7 Nattai SCA 35.76 0.8 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 3332.98 70.3 Total Reserved 4466.65 94.2 Total Unreserved 274.15 5.8 Total Area within Warragamba Special 4740.81 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 4467 94.2 Reserve Total Area of Community 4741 100

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 161 CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 533.22 11.2 B Moderate 806.40 17.0 C Heavy 3401.19 71.7 Total 4740.81 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Bossiaea oligosperma (V)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia implexa 2 0.85 1 0.14 positive Aristida ramosa 4 0.85 2 0.08 positive Aristida vagans 2 0.54 2 0.13 positive Astroloma humifusum 2 0.92 1 0.06 positive Bursaria spinosa 3 0.62 2 0.22 positive Callistemon linearis 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Cheilanthes distans 2 0.85 2 0.09 positive Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 3 0.92 2 0.23 positive Cymbopogon refractus 3 0.85 2 0.10 positive Cyperus fulvus 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Desmodium brachypodum 2 0.69 2 0.08 positive Desmodium varians 2 0.77 2 0.28 positive Dichondra repens 3 1.00 3 0.38 positive Digitaria diffusa 2 0.54 1 0.02 positive Eragrostis lacunaria 3 0.15 0 0.00 positive Eucalyptus tereticornis 4 0.77 4 0.16 positive Exocarpos strictus 2 0.77 2 0.15 positive Hypericum gramineum 3 0.54 2 0.16 positive Lissanthe strigosa 2 0.62 2 0.20 positive Lomandra filiformis subsp. coriacea 2 0.54 2 0.19 positive Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 2 0.69 2 0.39 positive Microlaena stipoides 2 0.69 2 0.41 positive Olearia viscidula 3 0.85 2 0.32 positive Pratia purpurascens 2 0.62 2 0.32 positive Pterostylis rufa 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Pultenaea spinosa 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Stackhousia muricata 2 0.15 0 0.00 positive Vittadinia dissecta var. hirta 3 0.08 0 0.00 positive Vittadinia muelleri 2 0.08 0 0.00 positive Vittadinia pustulata 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Wahlenbergia gracilis 2 0.62 1 0.16 positive Zornia dyctiocarpa var. dyctiocarpa 3 0.15 0 0.00 positive Lomandra longifolia 1 0.38 2 0.58 negative

162 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU53 Devonian Red Gum-Grey Box Woodland

Number of Sites: 15 No. taxa/plot: 51.5

 DESCRIPTION Devonian Red Gum-Grey Box Woodland occurs at lower elevations on the hills rising to the east and west of the Wollondilly River in the south of the Special Area. A low open woodland dominated by Eucalyptus tereticornis and E. moluccana occurs on rocky, erodable slopes derived from granite like sediments of Bindook Porphyry Geology. A small tree layer is sparse but regularly includes isolated Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus and occasionally Ficus rubiginosa, Allocasuarina verticillata and Pittosporum undulatum. The latter species are more prominent on steep rocky scree slopes or amongst other rock outcrops. The understorey can regularly be shrubby with species such as Olearia viscidula, Bursaria spinosa and Cassinia laevis common with occasional Breynia oblongifolia and Indigofera australis. Despite the shallow rocky soil and low rainfall, the ground cover retains a very high diversity of grass species and an abundance of herbs. This reflects the relative fertility of the soil. Dichondra repens, Gahnia aspera, Calotis lappulacea, Desmodium varians, D. brachypodum, Aristida ramosa, Austrostipa scabra subsp. falcata, Lomandra longifolia, L. multiflora subsp. multiflora and Cymbopogon refractus are all present in the ground layer. A high diversity of small twiners and vines are also encountered. These include Geitonoplesium cymosum, Cissus opaca, Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana, Cayratia clematidea, Clematis aristata and Stephania japonica var. discolor.

Devonian Red Gum-Grey Box Woodland is closely related other vegetation communities found on Porphyry sediments in the Special Area. It is likely that subtle changes in elevation, topographic position and soil fertility result in slightly different moisture retention capacity of the soil. The composition of this community supports greater abundance and diversity of moisture loving herb and vine species. Much of this community persists on steep and unstable slopes of the Wollondilly Valley. However, there is widespread evidence of past grazing activities even on marginal sites, with slope benches and foothills heavily cleared.

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 163  FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 17m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 17% SD 9.5 Eucalyptus moluccana, Eucalyptus tereticornis, Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus Minor associates: Eucalyptus albens, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus melliodora Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 9% SD 10.9 Allocasuarina verticillata, Angophora floribunda, Backhousia myrtifolia, Acacia falciformis, Melaleuca styphelioides, Ficus rubiginosa Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 19% SD 15.2 Olearia viscidula, Bursaria spinosa, Cassinia laevis, Breynia oblongifolia, Indigofera australis Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 21% SD 12.7 Dichondra repens, Desmodium brachypodum, Calotis lappulacea, Aristida ramosa, Cenchrus caliculatus, Cheilanthes distans, Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi, Desmodium varians, Gahnia aspera, Arthropodium milleflorum, Cymbopogon refractus, Lomandra longifolia, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora, Solanum prinophyllum, Chloris ventricosa Vine & Climbers: no structural data available Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana, Cayratia clematidea, Geitonoplesium cymosum, Cissus opaca, Clematis aristata, Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides, Stephania japonica var. discolor, Aphanopetalum resinosum

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  A low open woodland dominated by Grey Box (Eucalyptus moluccana) and Forest Red Gum (E. tereticornis) found on steep slopes of Porphyry geology in the Wollondilly River Valley. The absence of Narrow-leaved Ironbark (E. crebra) and Yellow Box (E. melliodora) are useful in distinguishing other grassy woodlands found on Porphyry within the Special Area. Kurrajong (Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus) is a particularly common and indicative species within this community.  An abundance of herbs such as Tick-trefoils (Desmodium spp.), Kidney Weed (Dichondra repens) and a high diversity of twiners and small vines such as Wonga Wonga Vine (Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana) and Small leaved Water Vine (Cissus opaca).  Wallaby Weed (Olearia viscidula) and Blackthorn (Bursaria spinosa) are common in the shrub layer.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Stringers Flat; Milnigang Falls; Palling Flat; Basket Creek; Upper Campbell Creek

164 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 1548.08 27.5 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 5.76 0.1 Nattai NP 1326.36 23.6 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 45.44 0.8 Yerranderie SCA 809.52 14.4 Total Reserved 3735.16 66.4 Total Unreserved 1888.97 33.6 Total Area within Warragamba Special 5624.13 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 3735 66.4 Reserve Total Area of Community 5624 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 1449.23 25.8 B Moderate 1064.26 18.9 C Heavy 3110.64 55.3 Total 5624.13 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Aristida ramosa 2 0.80 2 0.08 positive Arthropodium milleflorum 2 0.67 2 0.09 positive Boerhavia dominii 2 0.13 0 0.00 positive Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus 2 1.00 1 0.10 positive Bursaria spinosa 2 0.73 2 0.24 positive Calotis lappulacea 3 0.80 2 0.02 positive Cassinia laevis 2 0.60 2 0.04 positive Cayratia clematidea 2 0.80 2 0.07 positive Cenchrus caliculatus 2 0.80 2 0.03 positive Cheilanthes distans 2 0.80 2 0.08 positive Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 2 0.67 2 0.25 positive Cissus opaca 2 0.67 1 0.01 positive Cymbopogon refractus 2 0.67 2 0.09 positive Desmodium brachypodum 2 0.87 2 0.08 positive Desmodium varians 2 0.80 2 0.27 positive Dichondra repens 3 1.00 3 0.35 positive Eucalyptus moluccana 4 0.67 4 0.03 positive

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 165 Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Eucalyptus tereticornis 4 0.53 4 0.14 positive Gahnia aspera 2 0.73 2 0.08 positive Geitonoplesium cymosum 2 0.73 2 0.29 positive Olearia viscidula 3 0.87 2 0.31 positive Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana 2 0.93 2 0.25 positive Pleurosorus subglandulosus 1 0.07 0 0.00 positive Scaevola aemula 3 0.07 0 0.00 positive Sisymbrium irio 2 0.07 0 0.00 positive Vittadinia cuneata 2 0.53 2 0.03 positive Vittadinia hispidula var. setosa 1 0.07 0 0.00 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.73 2 0.55 constant

166 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU54 Highlands Dry Scribbly Gum Woodland

Number of Sites: 2 No. taxa/plot: 28

 DESCRIPTION Highlands Dry Scribbly Gum Woodland occurs on the lower footslopes of the dry Wingecarribee Valley. It is characterised by a number of canopy species that are common on the dry and cool environments of the southern highlands and tablelands. Eucalyptus rossii can form dense stands often in association with E. macrorhyncha, E. globoidea, E. punctata and small clusters of E. cinerea. Occasional Eucalyptus melliodora and E. bridgesiana may be scattered amongst the canopy. The understorey is generally sparse with Olearia viscidula, Acacia buxifolia subsp. buxifolia, Persoonia linearis and Bursaria spinosa comprising the most conspicuous shrubs. Ground cover includes Lomandra longifolia, L. filiformis subsp. filiformis, Stypandra glauca, Pomax umbellata, Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana and Dianella revoluta var. revoluta. Highlands Dry Scribbly Gum Woodland is found in the far south east of the Special Area in the valley below Joadja Nature Reserve. It marks the geological change from Permian dominated gorge slopes to Ordovician and Silurian shales, sandstones and slates. It lies at elevations less than 550 metres and occupies the dry valley floors and footslopes. Soils are generally shallow to skeletal and contain considerable surface rock. This community relates to Forest Ecosystem 113 (NPWS, 2000a) which extends south of the Special Area and into the Wollondilly and Upper Shoalhaven Catchments. Despite the relative infertility of the soil, over half of the pre European distribution has been cleared with remaining areas poorly represented in conservation reserves.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Height 8-12m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 25% Eucalyptus rossii, Eucalyptus macrorhyncha, Eucalyptus globoidea, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus cinerea, Eucalyptus melliodora, Eucalyptus bridgesiana, Eucalyptus mannifera subsp. mannifera

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 167 Shrubs: Height 1-3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 20% Hakea dactyloides, Acacia buxifolia subsp. buxifolia, Acacia longifolia subsp. longifolia, Bursaria spinosa, Persoonia linearis, Dillwynia juniperina, Olearia viscidula, Lissanthe strigosa, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa Ground covers: Height 1m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 30% Lomandra filiformis subsp. filiformis, Lomandra longifolia, Stypandra glauca, Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:

 Prominence of tableland species such as Red Stringybark (Eucalyptus macrorhyncha), Tablelands Scribbly Gum (E. rossii) and Brittle Gum (E. mannifera subsp. mannifera). Clusters of small trees of Argyle Apple (Eucalyptus cinerea) are conspicuous from a distance with wattle-like blue leaves.  Dry open woodland on lower slopes and foothills of the Wingecarribee Valley.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Deep Creek Valley below Joadja Nature Reserve

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0 0 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 4.08 5.9 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 4.08 5.9 Total Unreserved 65.06 94.1 Total Area within Warragamba Special 69.14 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS Reserve Total Area of Community 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 22.13 32.0 B Moderate 43.93 63.5 C Heavy 3.08 4.5 Total 69.14 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES None calculated for this community

168 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU55 Highlands Transitional Shale Woodland

Number of Sites: 3 No. taxa/plot: 51.2

 DESCRIPTION Highlands Transitional Shale Woodland is associated with residual shale soil overlying sandstone on the Southern Highlands around Mt. Wanganderry. The degree of weathering of the original shale cap appears to result in a soil that blends both coarse and fine grained sediments that forms a transitional shale-sandstone substrate. These soils support a moderately tall (to 25 metres) and open canopy dominated by Eucalyptus globoidea and E. punctata with a number of other less prominent Eucalypt species. The understorey comprises an open shrub layer of Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium, Helichrysum elatum, Olearia viscidula and scattered Persoonia linearis. The lower stratum supports an open cover of herbs, grasses and climbers. The species composition reflects the influence of both shale and sandstone parent material in the soil, although overall the stratum is more herbaceous than adjoining sandstone vegetation. Typical combinations of species include Gonocarpus tetragynus, Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea, Billardiera scandens var. scandens, Hardenbergia violacea, Hibbertia empetrifolia subsp. empetrifolia, Lomandra filiformis subsp. coriacea, Lomatia silaifolia, Phyllanthus hirtellus, Viola hederacea, Entolasia stricta and Pratia purpurascens. Highlands Transitional Shale Woodland is not described outside of the Special Area. It is likely that the community is restricted to narrow bands at the interface of shale and sandstone geology throughout the Southern Highlands. It is also likely that clearing for agriculture has impacted on the original distribution of the community.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 23m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 28% SD 11.5 Eucalyptus globoidea, Eucalyptus punctata Minor associates: Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus sieberi, Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata, Eucalyptus elata, Angophora costata Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 9m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 26% SD 10.4 Allocasuarina littoralis, Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium, Helichrysum elatum, Olearia viscidula, Persoonia linearis, Acacia ulicifolia Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.2m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 30% SD 27.8 Gonocarpus tetragynus, Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea, Billardiera scandens var. scandens, Hardenbergia violacea, Hibbertia empetrifolia subsp. empetrifolia, Lomandra filiformis subsp. coriacea, Lomatia silaifolia, Phyllanthus hirtellus, Viola hederacea, Entolasia stricta, Pratia purpurascens, Veronica plebeia

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Interface of shale and sandstone geologies at elevations above 600 metres.  A moderately tall stand of trees that are dominated by White Stringybark (Eucalyptus globoidea), Forest Red Gum (E. tereticornis) and Grey Gum (E. punctata).  An understorey that includes a mix of sclerophyllous shrubs such as Narrow-leaved Geebung (Persoonia linearis), Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium and Straight Wattle (Acacia stricta) with an open grassy and herbaceous understorey that includes Gonocarpus tetragynus, Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea, Nodding Blue Lily (Stypandra glauca) and Microlaena stipoides.

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 169  EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Slopes around Mt. Wanganderry (Southern Plateau)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0 0 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 48.67 26.7 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 48.67 26.7 Total Unreserved 133.77 73.3 Total Area within Warragamba Special 182.44 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 49 26.7 Reserve Total Area of Community >182 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 61.79 33.9 B Moderate 6.20 3.4 C Heavy 114.45 62.7 Total 182.44 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia longifolia subsp. longifolia 2 0.56 2 0.07 positive Allocasuarina littoralis 2 0.67 2 0.12 positive Billardiera scandens var. scandens 2 0.89 1 0.32 positive Dianella revoluta var. revoluta 2 0.78 2 0.23 positive Eucalyptus globoidea 4 0.78 4 0.03 positive Eucalyptus punctata 4 0.78 3 0.34 positive Gonocarpus tetragynus 3 0.89 2 0.19 positive Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea 3 0.89 2 0.26 positive Hardenbergia violacea 2 0.89 2 0.27 positive Helichrysum scorpioides 4 0.56 2 0.11 positive Hibbertia empetrifolia subsp. empetrifolia 2 0.67 2 0.09 positive Hydrocotyle laxiflora 2 0.67 2 0.20 positive Hypericum gramineum 2 0.56 2 0.14 positive Joycea pallida 5 0.67 2 0.06 positive Lomandra filiformis subsp. coriacea 2 0.67 2 0.15 positive

170 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 2 0.89 2 0.36 positive Microlaena stipoides 3 0.89 2 0.36 positive Olearia viscidula 2 0.78 2 0.32 positive Opercularia diphylla 2 0.67 1 0.08 positive Phyllanthus hirtellus 2 0.67 2 0.28 positive Poranthera microphylla 2 0.67 2 0.18 positive Stypandra glauca 4 0.56 3 0.21 positive Viola hederacea 2 0.67 2 0.24 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.33 2 0.55 negative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 171 MU56 Cumberland Plain Shale Sandstone Transition Forest (Low Sandstone Influence)

Number of Sites: 40 (West Syd) No. taxa/plot: 41.3

 DESCRIPTION Cumberland Plain Shale Sandstone Transition Forest (Low Sandstone Influence) (NPWS, 2000b) occurs along the very eastern edge of the Special Area. Remnants of this community occur on gentle slopes of the Oakdale Plateau at the interface of Shale and Sandstone soils. This community is more widely distributed outside of the Special Area and is found on the periphery of Wianamatta Shales between Kurrajong in the north and Appin in the south east. Comprehensive survey, analysis and mapping of this community was undertaken by NPWS (2000b) and this information forms the basis of this profile. Cumberland Plain Shale Sandstone Transition Forest (Low Sandstone Influence) is dominated by Eucalyptus tereticornis, with E. eugenioides, E. crebra, E. fibrosa and E. punctata occurring less frequently. A small tree stratum is usually present and dominated by Eucalyptus spp., with Allocasuarina littoralis and Acacia decurrens sometimes present. A shrub layer dominated by Bursaria spinosa is usually present. Frequently this is of high density, although the foliage of this shrub is sparse and does not translate into high cover values. A diverse array of forb species is always present, frequently exceeding 50 percent in projected foliage cover. Species frequently present in the ground stratum include Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides, Dichondra repens, Pratia purpurascens, Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi, Echinopogon ovatus, Solanum prinophyllum, Entolasia marginata, Themeda australis and Oxalis perennans. Cumberland Plain Shale Sandstone Transition Forest (Low Sandstone Influence) occurs around the margins of the Cumberland Plain on soils derived from Wianamatta Shale. It is most extensive in the south eastern and south western sections of the Cumberland Plain. The community is only found in close proximity to a transition in parent geology from Wianamatta Shale to high-quartz sedimentary substrates such as Hawkesbury and Narrabeen Group Sandstones, as well as fine to medium grain quartz of the Mittagong Formation. In these peripheral areas, shale soils form a shallow layer over the underlying sandstone. The majority of sample sites were located within approximately two kilometres of a shale/sandstone boundary. The community may also be found at greater distances from the shale/sandstone boundary where watercourses have eroded the shale stratum down close to the level of the underlying sandstone. Although this community marks the start of the transition from the pure shale communities of the Cumberland Plain to the surrounding sandstone communities, it contains relatively few species commonly observed on sandstone derived soils. This community is typically found on the middle or upper slopes of gently undulating land. As distance to the shale/sandstone boundary increases this community grades into Cumberland Shale Plains Woodland (MU60) or less frequently, Cumberland Shale Hills Woodland (MU59). The boundary between these communities is indistinct by nature, and largely unpredictable at the present time. As distance to the shale/sandstone boundary decreases, this community grades into Cumberland Plain Shale Sandstone Transition Forest (High Sandstone Influence) (MU57). Again, the boundary between these communities is indistinct and largely arbitrary. Both these communities form a component of Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest, an Ecological Community listed as Endangered under Part 3, Schedule 1 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 23m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 24% SD 9.9 Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus crebra, Eucalyptus fibrosa, Eucalyptus punctata Minor associates: Eucalyptus moluccana, Eucalyptus globoidea, Corymbia maculata, Eucalyptus resinifera subsp. resinifera, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera, Corymbia gummifera, Eucalyptus pilularis, Eucalyptus saligna, Eucalyptus sideroxylon

172 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 12m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 11% SD 8.2 Angophora floribunda, Angophora bakeri, Melaleuca decora, Allocasuarina littoralis, Acacia decurrens Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 3.3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 16% SD 16.6 Bursaria spinosa, Grevillea arenaria, Hibbertia linearis, Monotoca ledifolia, Pomaderris eriocephala Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 50% SD 22.5 Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides, Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi, Echinopogon ovatus, Entolasia marginata, Pratia purpurascens, Solanum prinophyllum, Dichondra repens, Themeda australis, Oxalis perennans, Veronica plebeia, Brunoniella australis, Eragrostis leptostachya, Desmodium varians, Lepidosperma laterale

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  An open grassy forest dominated by Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis), Ironbarks (E. fibrosa and E. crebra) and Thin-leaved Stringybark (E. eugenioides).  Occurs on moderately fertile soil mostly shale derived with sandstone having a transitional influence.  Can be distinguished from other shale/sandstone transition forests by the absence of sandstone shrub species such as Narrow-leaved Geebung (Persoonia linearis) and Tick Bush (Kunzea ambigua).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Noorumba Reserve; Werombi Cemetery

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT Forms a component of the Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest, an Endangered Ecological Community listed under the Threatened Species Act (1995). RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0 0 Burragorang SCA 57.13 14.5 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0.43 0.1 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 57.56 14.6 Total Unreserved 336.20 85.4 Total Area within Warragamba Special 393.76 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 58 1.0 Reserve Total Area of Community 6090 100

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 173 CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 6.95 1.8 B Moderate 58.31 14.8 C Heavy 328.50 83.4 Total 393.76 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Monotoca ledifolia (3RC-)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES Diagnostic species modified from data presented by NPWS (2000b) Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Aristida vagans 2 0.55 2 0.48 positive Brunoniella australis 2 0.65 3 0.40 positive Desmodium varians 2 0.63 2 0.40 positive Echinopogon ovatus 2 0.80 2 0.35 positive Entolasia marginata 2 0.75 2 0.26 positive Eragrostis leptostachya 2 0.65 2 0.25 positive Eucalyptus tereticornis 4 0.53 3 0.30 positive Gahnia sieberiana 1 0.03 0 0.00 positive Glycine tabacina 2 0.53 2 0.32 positive Grevillea arenaria 1 0.03 0 0.00 positive Hibbertia linearis 2 0.03 0 0.00 positive Hypericum japonicum 1 0.03 0 0.00 positive Lepidosperma laterale 2 0.60 2 0.41 positive Monotoca ledifolia 2 0.03 0 0.00 positive Opercularia diphylla 2 0.53 2 0.41 positive Oxalis perennans 2 0.68 2 0.34 positive Paspalidium gracile 1 0.03 0 0.00 positive Passiflora cinnabarina 1 0.03 0 0.00 positive Pomaderris eriocephala 1 0.03 0 0.00 positive Pratia purpurascens 2 0.75 2 0.42 positive Scaevola aemula 2 0.03 0 0.00 positive Solanum prinophyllum 2 0.73 2 0.29 positive Veronica plebeia 2 0.68 2 0.23 positive Vittadinia hispidula var. hispidula 1 0.03 0 0.00 positive Entolasia stricta 2 0.33 3 0.53 negative Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 1 0.40 2 0.52 negative Bursaria spinosa 3 0.73 3 0.57 constant Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 2 0.83 2 0.59 constant Dichondra repens 3 0.78 3 0.53 constant Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides 4 0.88 3 0.75 constant Themeda australis 3 0.78 3 0.61 constant

174 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU57 Cumberland Plain Shale Sandstone Transition Forest (High Sandstone Influence)

Number of Sites: 59 No. taxa/plot: 50.1

 DESCRIPTION Cumberland Plain Shale Sandstone Transition Forest (High Sandstone Influence) occurs along the very eastern edge of the Special Area between Buxton and Warragamba. Comprehensive survey, analysis and mapping of this community was undertaken by NPWS (2000b) and this information forms the basis of this profile. This community is extensively distributed around the periphery of the Cumberland Plain in close proximity to the shale/sandstone boundary. The majority of sample sites for this community were located within approximately 400 metres of the shale/ sandstone boundary and varied considerably in response to the degree of sandstone influence evident in the soil.

Cumberland Plain Shale Sandstone Transition Forest (High Sandstone Influence) is dominated by a wide variety of Eucalypt species. Eucalyptus punctata and E. crebra were regularly recorded, with E. fibrosa, Corymbia gummifera and Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera occurring less frequently. Within the Special Area Eucalyptus notabilis and the closely related E. resinifera subsp. resinifera may be more prominent with Corymbia eximia also featured. A smaller tree stratum is usually present and is most often dominated by Allocasuarina littoralis, Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera and Acacia decurrens. This community usually has a well-developed shrub layer which is more diverse in species than in communities with less sandstone influence in the soil. Kunzea ambigua, Persoonia linearis and Bursaria spinosa dominate the shrub stratum with Jacksonia scoparia becoming more common with increasing sandstone influence. The ground stratum is dominated by Entolasia stricta, Themeda australis, Austrostipa pubescens, Lepidosperma laterale, Aristida vagans and Pomax umbellata. Cumberland Plain Shale Sandstone Transition Forest (High Sandstone Influence) is essentially a shale community, and is most likely to occur on shallow, residual clay soils derived from Wianamatta Shale. However, it may also be found on high-quartz sandstone-derived soils where there is a strong colluvial shale influence (for example, the upper slopes of sandstone gullies adjoining shale soils), and on outcrops of pure shale soils derived from the Mittagong Formation. It occurs primarily on upper slopes and ridges on gently undulating terrain and grades into Cumberland Plain Shale Sandstone

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 175 Transition Forest (Low Sandstone Influence) (MU56) as the influence of shale increases. Sometimes this transition is abrupt, and it may grade directly into Cumberland Shale Plains Woodland (MU60).

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 21m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 20% SD 9.9 Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus crebra Minor associates: Eucalyptus fibrosa, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus pilularis, Eucalyptus globoidea, Corymbia eximia, Eucalyptus notabilis, Eucalyptus beyeriana, Eucalyptus tereticornis, Corymbia gummifera, Corymbia maculata Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 10m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 11% SD 9.1 Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera, Allocasuarina littoralis, Acacia decurrens Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 12% SD 10.6 Persoonia linearis, Kunzea ambigua, Pimelea linifolia subsp. linifolia, Bursaria spinosa, Ozothamnus diosmifolius, Phyllanthus hirtellus Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 34% SD 21.3 Lepidosperma laterale, Aristida vagans, Entolasia stricta, Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora, Pomax umbellata, Panicum simile, Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi, Pratia purpurascens, Echinopogon caespitosus var. caespitosus, Themeda australis, Austrostipa pubescens, Glycine clandestina, Billardiera scandens

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  The canopy is dominated by Grey Gum (Eucalyptus punctata) and Narrow-leaved Ironbark (E. crebra). Mountain Mahogany (E. notabilis) is prevalent between Buxton and Oakdale.  The presence of Red and Yellow Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera and C. eximia) help distinguish transition forests with high sandstone influence.  A diverse shrub layer highlights its variation from communities found on richer shale soils. Such species include Tick Bush (Kunzea ambigua), Narrow-leaved Geebung (Persoonia linearis) and Dogwood (Jacksonia scoparia).  The ground cover includes a diverse cover of grasses that are not present on soils derived from Quartz Sandstones. These include Threeawn Speargrass (Aristida vagans), Tufted Hedgehog Grass (Echinopogon caespitosus var. caespitosus) and Kangaroo Grass (Themeda australis).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Orangeville off Silverdale Road; Bents Basin Nature Reserve

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT Forms a component of the Shale/Sandstone Transition Forest, an Endangered Ecological Community listed under the Threatened Species Act (1995).

176 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0 0 Burragorang SCA 807.22 23.9 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 12.42 0.4 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 39.48 1.2 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 859.12 25.4 Total Unreserved 2521.06 74.6 Total Area within Warragamba Special 3380.18 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 1075 12.3 Reserve Total Area of Community 8706 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 620.66 18.4 B Moderate 1636.89 48.4 C Heavy 1122.63 33.2 Total 3380.18 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Persoonia hirsuta (E1), Acacia pubescens (V), Lomandra brevis (2R), Lissanthe sapida (3RCa)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Allocasuarina torulosa 4 0.50 3 0.18 positive Angophora costata 3 0.50 4 0.11 positive Aristida benthamii var. spinulifera 3 0.13 0 0.00 positive Aristida vagans 2 0.88 2 0.13 positive Austrostipa pubescens 3 0.63 2 0.05 positive Billardiera scandens var. scandens 3 1.00 1 0.31 positive Bursaria spinosa 2 0.50 2 0.22 positive Corymbia gummifera 3 0.63 4 0.14 positive Dianella caerulea 2 0.75 2 0.33 positive Dichopogon strictus 1 0.13 0 0.00 positive Dillwynia parvifolia 1 0.13 0 0.00 positive Dipodium variegatum 1 0.13 0 0.00 positive Entolasia marginata 3 0.50 2 0.11 positive Entolasia stricta 3 1.00 2 0.41 positive Eucalyptus eugenioides 4 0.63 4 0.13 positive Glycine clandestina 2 1.00 2 0.32 positive Gonocarpus tetragynus 2 0.75 2 0.24 positive Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea 2 0.88 2 0.27 positive Grevillea mucronulata 2 0.63 2 0.05 positive Hardenbergia violacea 2 0.75 1 0.28 positive

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 177 Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Hibbertia aspera subsp. aspera 3 0.63 2 0.12 positive Hibbertia diffusa 2 0.63 1 0.03 positive Hybanthus vernonii subsp. vernonii 1 0.13 0 0.00 positive Kunzea ambigua 4 0.50 1 0.02 positive Lepidosperma laterale 3 0.50 2 0.28 positive Lindsaea microphylla 2 0.63 1 0.10 positive Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 2 0.75 2 0.39 positive Lomandra obliqua 2 0.63 2 0.21 positive Melaleuca thymifolia 3 0.13 0 0.00 positive Microlaena stipoides 3 0.50 2 0.41 positive Panicum simile 2 0.88 1 0.06 positive Persoonia lanceolata 2 0.13 0 0.00 positive Persoonia linearis 2 1.00 2 0.44 positive Persoonia oblongata 2 0.38 0 0.00 positive Phyllanthus hirtellus 2 1.00 2 0.31 positive Pimelea linifolia subsp. linifolia 2 0.75 2 0.08 positive Pomaderris intermedia 1 0.13 0 0.00 positive Pomax umbellata 2 0.88 2 0.31 positive Pratia purpurascens 2 0.63 2 0.32 positive Syncarpia glomulifera subsp. glomulifera 4 1.00 4 0.11 positive Themeda australis 3 0.63 1 0.08 positive Tricoryne simplex 1 0.13 0 0.00 positive Lomandra longifolia 3 0.50 2 0.58 constant

178 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU58 Cumberland Plain Alluvial Woodland

Number of Sites: 37 No. taxa/plot: 37.1

 DESCRIPTION Cumberland Plain Alluvial Woodland occurs along the very eastern edge of the Special Area and is associated with Wianamatta Shale soils. Most of the extant cover within the Special Area remains as disturbed remnants. The bulk of this community’s distribution is to the east and north, across the Cumberland Plain. Comprehensive survey, analysis and mapping of this community was undertaken by NPWS (2000b) and this information forms the basis of this profile. Cumberland Plain Alluvial Woodland contains a number of tree species that may dominate at different sites. However, no species in the upper tree stratum was recorded in more than 50 percent of the sample sites. The two most common species are the closely related Red Gums Eucalyptus amplifolia subsp. amplifolia and E. tereticornis, with Angophora floribunda occurring slightly less frequently. It often includes a stratum of small trees, frequently including Acacia parramattensis and to a lesser extent Casuarina glauca, with Angophora floribunda and Melaleuca linariifolia less frequent. A shrub stratum is usually evident, but is often sparse and invariably dominated by Bursaria spinosa. This community often has a dense ground cover dominated by grasses such as Entolasia marginata, Oplismenus aemulus, Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides and Echinopogon ovatus. Herb species are also common, including Solanum prinophyllum, Pratia purpurascens and Commelina cyanea. Cumberland Plain Alluvial Woodland occurs exclusively along, or in close proximity to minor watercourses draining soils derived from Wianamatta Shale. It is the most common community found on soils of recent alluvial deposition in the Cumberland Plain. Within the Special Area it occurs along the upper sections of Monkey Creek and its tributaries. North of The Oaks this drainage system cuts downwards into Hawkesbury Sandstone sediments with a resultant change in vegetation. Cumberland Plain Alluvial Woodland forms a component of Sydney Coastal River Flat Forest, an Endangered Ecological Community listed under Part 3, Schedule 1 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995. Further components are Riparian Forest and Riparian Woodland, and whilst not observed during this study have been described by NPWS (2000b).

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 24m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 23% SD 11.7 Eucalyptus amplifolia subsp. amplifolia, Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus eugenioides, Angophora floribunda, Angophora subvelutina Small Trees: Mean Upper Height 12m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 14% SD 8.5 Acacia parramattensis, Casuarina glauca, Angophora floribunda, Melaleuca linariifolia

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 179 Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 3.7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 13% SD 9.6 Bursaria spinosa Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 61% SD 25.0 Oplismenus aemulus, Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides, Dichondra repens, Entolasia marginata, Echinopogon ovatus, Solanum prinophyllum, Pratia purpurascens, Commelina cyanea, Oxalis perennans, Brunoniella australis, Glycine tabacina

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Canopy is dominated by Red Gums including Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis) and Cabbage Gum (E. amplifolia subsp. amplifolia).  Follows minor creeklines and drainage depressions on shale soils.  Sydney Green Wattle (Acacia parramattensis) is frequently abundant, with Swamp Oak (Casuarina glauca) and Rough-barked Apple (Angophora floribunda) sometimes occurring.  Ground cover is dominated by grasses and herbs.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS The upper tributaries of Monkey Creek; Chain-o-Ponds Reserve; Cabramatta Creek

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT Forms a component of the Sydney Coastal River Flat Forest, an Endangered Ecological Community listed under the Threatened Species Act (1995). RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0 0 Burragorang SCA 0.38 0.4 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 0.38 0.4 Total Unreserved 91.78 99.6 Total Area within Warragamba Special 92.16 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS <1 0.0 Reserve Total Area of Community 3141 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 44.67 48.5 B Moderate 28.35 30.8 C Heavy 19.14 20.8 Total 92.16 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Eucalyptus benthamii (V)

180 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES Diagnostic species modified from data presented by NPWS (2000b) Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia parramattensis 3 0.84 2 0.18 positive Alisma plantago-aquatica 1 0.05 0 0.00 positive Bolboschoenus caldwellii 2 0.03 0 0.00 positive Brunoniella australis 3 0.54 3 0.41 positive Centipeda cunninghamii 2 0.03 0 0.00 positive Commelina cyanea 3 0.60 2 0.13 positive Cyperus trinervis 2 0.03 0 0.00 positive Desmodium varians 2 0.57 2 0.40 positive Echinopogon ovatus 3 0.84 2 0.35 positive Entolasia marginata 3 0.89 2 0.25 positive Fimbristylis velata 1 0.03 0 0.00 positive Glycine clandestina 2 0.54 2 0.44 positive Glycine tabacina 3 0.57 2 0.31 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.57 2 0.27 positive Myriophyllum variifolium 2 0.03 0 0.00 positive Oplismenus aemulus 3 0.95 2 0.18 positive Oxalis perennans 3 0.57 2 0.35 positive Persicaria subsessilis 2 0.03 0 0.00 positive Pratia purpurascens 2 0.68 2 0.43 positive Samolus valerandi 1 0.05 0 0.00 positive Scutellaria mollis 2 0.03 0 0.00 positive Solanum prinophyllum 2 0.70 2 0.30 positive Aristida vagans 1 0.08 2 0.52 negative Entolasia stricta 2 0.05 3 0.55 negative Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 1 0.08 2 0.54 negative Themeda australis 2 0.22 3 0.65 negative Bursaria spinosa 3 1.00 3 0.55 constant Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 2 0.51 2 0.61 constant Dichondra repens 3 0.97 3 0.52 constant Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides 4 0.97 3 0.74 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 181 MU59 Cumberland Plain Shale Hills Woodland

Number of Sites: 61 No. taxa/plot: 36.9

 DESCRIPTION Cumberland Plain Shale Hills Woodland occurs along the very eastern edge of the Special Area and is associated with Wianamatta Shale soils. Most of the extant cover remains as highly fragmented, with disturbed remnants forming an open cover of scattered trees. Much of the extant distribution of this community lies to the east across the Cumberland Plain. Comprehensive survey, analysis and mapping of this community has been previously undertaken by NPWS (2000b) and this information forms the basis of this profile. Cumberland Plain Shale Hills Woodland is dominated by Eucalyptus moluccana and E. tereticornis, with E. crebra occurring less frequently. A small tree stratum is often present and most frequently includes Acacia implexa together with a variety of the commonly occurring Eucalypt species. It typically has a shrub stratum dominated by Bursaria spinosa, and more rarely includes other species such as Acacia falcata, Breynia oblongifolia, Indigofera australis and Dodonaea viscosa subsp. cuneata. The ground stratum is variable in cover. Often there is a good cover of grass and herb species, but this becomes quite sparse under a dense shrub stratum of Bursaria spinosa or the introduced Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata. Ground cover species include Brunoniella australis, Dichondra repens, Aristida ramosa, Desmodium varians, Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides, Themeda australis and Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi.

Cumberland Plain Shale Hills Woodland occurs almost exclusively on soils derived from Wianamatta Shales. It is closely related to Cumberland Shale Plains Woodland (MU60). Generally, habitat can be used to distinguish the two communities. This community occurs on higher elevations and steeper slopes than Cumberland Plain Shale Plains Woodland. Both form a component of Cumberland Plains Woodland, an Endangered Ecological Community listed under Part 3, Schedule 1 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995.

182 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 23m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 19% SD 9.4 Eucalyptus moluccana, Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus crebra Minor associates: Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus amplifolia subsp. amplifolia, Eucalyptus fibrosa, Angophora floribunda, Angophora subvelutina, Corymbia maculata Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 4m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 20% SD 13.6 Acacia implexa, Bursaria spinosa, Breynia oblongifolia, Acacia falcata, Indigofera australis Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 44% SD 24.3 Dichondra repens, Brunoniella australis, Aristida ramosa, Desmodium varians, Carex inversa, Asperula conferta, Dichelachne micrantha, Oxalis perennans, Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi, Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides, Glycine tabacina

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Open woodland dominated by Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis) and Grey Box (E. moluccana). Higher elevations on steeper hillslopes help distinguish this community from Cumberland Shale Plains Woodland.  Understorey in the Special Area is often infested with African Olive (Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata). Many remnants persist as paddock shade trees and roadside verges.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Silverdale Road, The Oaks

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT Forms a component of the Cumberland Plain Woodland, an Endangered Ecological Community listed under the Threatened Species Act (1995). RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0 0 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 0 0 Total Unreserved Total Area within Warragamba Special 39.32 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 185 4.2 Reserve Total Area of Community 4362 100

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 183

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 10.13 25.8 B Moderate 0.77 2.0 C Heavy 28.42 72.3 Total 39.32 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES Diagnostic species modified from data presented by NPWS (2000b) Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Alternanthera species A 1 0.02 0 0.00 positive Aristida ramosa 3 0.84 2 0.17 positive Asperula conferta 2 0.61 2 0.07 positive Brunoniella australis 3 0.85 3 0.36 positive Capillipedium spicigerum 1 0.03 0 0.00 positive Carex inversa 2 0.62 2 0.07 positive Chamaesyce dallachyana 1 0.02 0 0.00 positive Chloris divaricata var. divaricata 1 0.02 0 0.00 positive Cyperus fulvus 1 0.02 0 0.00 positive Dactyloctenium radulans 1 0.02 0 0.00 positive Desmodium varians 3 0.82 2 0.36 positive Dichelachne micrantha 2 0.61 2 0.34 positive Dichondra repens 3 0.97 3 0.50 positive Eucalyptus moluccana 4 0.70 3 0.17 positive Eucalyptus tereticornis 4 0.70 3 0.26 positive Glycine tabacina 2 0.56 2 0.30 positive Glycine tomentella 2 0.02 0 0.00 positive Oxalis perennans 2 0.52 2 0.34 positive Oxalis rubens 2 0.02 0 0.00 positive Portulaca oleracea 1 0.03 0 0.00 positive Veronica brownii 1 0.02 0 0.00 positive Aristida vagans 2 0.23 2 0.52 negative Entolasia stricta 4 0.02 3 0.58 negative Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 2 0.25 2 0.54 negative Bursaria spinosa 4 0.92 3 0.53 constant Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 2 0.69 2 0.60 constant Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides 3 0.79 3 0.76 constant Themeda australis 4 0.77 3 0.60 constant

184 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU60 Cumberland Plain Shale Plains Woodland

Number of Sites: 72 No. taxa/plot: 43.8

 DESCRIPTION Cumberland Plain Shale Plains Woodland occurs along the very eastern edge of the Special Area being associated with Wianamatta Shale soils. Most of the extant cover remains as highly fragmented and disturbed remnants forming an open cover of scattered trees. Remnants of this community are small within the Special Area with the majority occurring to the north and east across the Cumberland Plain. Comprehensive survey, analysis and mapping of this community has been undertaken by NPWS (2000b) and this information forms the basis of this profile. Cumberland Plain Shale Plains Woodland is dominated by Eucalyptus moluccana and E. tereticornis, with E. crebra, E. eugenioides and Corymbia maculata occurring less frequently. These species often form a separate small tree stratum, occasionally including other species such as Acacia parramattensis, A. decurrens and Exocarpos cupressiformis. A shrub stratum is usually present and dominated by Bursaria spinosa. Common ground cover species include Opercularia diphylla, Brunoniella australis, Dichondra repens, Desmodium varians, Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides, Aristida vagans, Wahlenbergia gracilis, Themeda australis and Dichelachne micrantha. Cumberland Plain Shale Plains Woodland is the most widely distributed community on the Cumberland Plain. It predominantly occurs on soils derived from Wianamatta Shale, but also occurs on Holocene alluvium in well drained areas that are infrequently inundated. Isolated patches of this community may be found on soils derived from the Mittagong Formation, but only in the vicinity of outcrops of almost pure shale. Its occurrence within the Special Area is very restricted being mapped at only a handful of small remnants around the township of The Oaks. This community is closely related to Cumberland Plain Shale Hills Woodland (MU59). Both form a component of Cumberland Plains Woodland, an Endangered Ecological Community listed under Part 3, Schedule 1 of the Threatened Species Conservation Act, 1995.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 21m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 17% SD 9.3 Eucalyptus moluccana, Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus crebra Minor associates: Eucalyptus eugenioides, Eucalyptus amplifolia subsp. amplifolia, Eucalyptus fibrosa, Angophora floribunda, Angophora subvelutina, Corymbia maculata

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 185 Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 14% SD 9.6 Acacia decurrens, Acacia parramattensis, Exocarpos cupressiformis, Bursaria spinosa, Breynia oblongifolia Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 45% SD 19.2 Dichondra repens, Brunoniella australis, Aristida vagans, Desmodium varians, Themeda australis, Wahlenbergia gracilis, Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides, Glycine tabacina, Glycine clandestina, Cymbopogon refractus, Echinopogon caespitosus var. caespitosus

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Open woodland dominated by Forest Red Gum (Eucalyptus tereticornis) and Grey Box (E. moluccana). Habitat characterised by undulating slopes and flats on Wianamatta Shale soil (and sometimes recent Alluvium).  Understorey is generally open with a good cover of native grasses including Threeawn Speargrass (Aristida vagans), Kangaroo Grass (Themeda australis) as well as herbs such as Kidney Weed (Dichondra repens) and Blue Trumpet (Brunoniella australis).  Within the Special Area, most remnants are highly disturbed and persist as paddock shade trees and roadside verges

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Monkey Creek off Silverdale Road, The Oaks

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT Forms a component of the Cumberland Plain Woodland, an Endangered Ecological Community listed under the Threatened Species Act (1995). RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0 0 Burragorang SCA 0.44 0.7 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 0.44 0.7 Total Unreserved 60.71 99.3 Total Area within Warragamba Special 61.15 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 566 8.7 Reserve Total Area of Community 6470 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 7.19 11.8 B Moderate 7.20 11.8 C Heavy 46.76 76.5 Total 61.15 100

186 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES Diagnostic species modified from data presented by NPWS (2000b). Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq class Acacia buxifolia subsp. buxifolia 1 0.01 0 0.00 positive Aristida ramosa 2 0.54 2 0.20 positive Aristida vagans 3 0.92 2 0.42 positive Arthropodium milleflorum 2 0.54 2 0.20 positive Austrodanthonia setacea 2 0.01 0 0.00 positive Austrodanthonia tenuior 2 0.51 2 0.16 positive Brachycome multifida 4 0.01 0 0.00 positive Brunoniella australis 3 0.88 3 0.35 positive Calandrinia pickeringii 1 0.01 0 0.00 positive Cymbopogon refractus 2 0.50 2 0.15 positive Desmodium varians 3 0.86 2 0.34 positive Dianella longifolia 2 0.60 1 0.17 positive Dichelachne micrantha 3 0.75 2 0.31 positive Dichondra repens 3 0.97 3 0.48 positive Dichopogon strictus 1 0.04 0 0.00 positive Dipodium punctatum 1 0.01 0 0.00 positive Echinopogon caespitosus var. caespitosus 2 0.50 2 0.27 positive Eragrostis leptostachya 2 0.69 2 0.22 positive Eucalyptus moluccana 3 0.65 4 0.17 positive Eucalyptus tereticornis 4 0.64 3 0.26 positive Euchiton sphaericus 2 0.56 1 0.18 positive Glycine clandestina 3 0.56 2 0.42 positive Glycine tabacina 3 0.65 2 0.28 positive Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea 2 0.56 2 0.32 positive Lomandra filiformis subsp. filiformis 3 0.61 2 0.27 positive Lomandra multiflora subsp. multiflora 2 0.57 2 0.50 positive Opercularia diphylla 2 0.81 2 0.36 positive Oxalis perennans 3 0.60 2 0.32 positive Paspalidium distans 3 0.75 2 0.24 positive Pimelea curviflora var. subglabrata 2 0.01 0 0.00 positive Ranunculus lappaceus 3 0.03 0 0.00 positive Rorippa laciniata 2 0.01 0 0.00 positive Wahlenbergia gracilis 2 0.79 2 0.32 positive Wurmbea biglandulosa 1 0.01 0 0.00 positive Entolasia stricta 2 0.18 3 0.57 negative Bursaria spinosa 4 0.97 3 0.52 constant Cheilanthes sieberi subsp. sieberi 3 0.94 2 0.55 constant Microlaena stipoides var. stipoides 4 0.90 3 0.74 constant Themeda australis 4 0.88 3 0.58 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 187 MU61 Rock Plate Heath-Mallee

Number of Sites: 10 No. taxa/plot: 31.0

 DESCRIPTION Rock Plate Heath-Mallee occurs on exposed massive rock plates and outcrops covered with skeletal sandy soils. The dominant feature of this assemblage is the dense heath layer with dominant species being Banksia ericifolia subsp. ericifolia, Leptospermum trinervium, Allocasuarina nana or A. distyla with other scattered shrubs such as Isopogon anemonifolius, Petrophile pedunculata, Hakea dactyloides and Kunzea capitata amongst others. A number of mallee species can be found amongst the heath or as low emergents. These include Eucalyptus stricta, E. burgessiana, E. obstans, E. multicaulis, E. ligustrina and E. apiculata. Eucalyptus obstans is unique to this assemblage and along with the closely related E. burgessiana is most common between 550 and 700 metres in isolated patches on the Wild Goat Plateau. Cyperaceae species such as Lepyrodia scariosa, Cyathochaeta diandra, Schoenus imberbis, Caustis flexuosa and C. pentandra are common in the lower stratum amongst other herbs such as Platysace linearifolia, Actinotus minor, Dampiera stricta and Patersonia sericea. Rock Plate Heath-Mallee is a feature of the sandstone plateau below 900 metres in elevation. Above this height there is some cross over in species between this community and those found in Montane Heath-Mallee (MU62). Patches of this community are small though widely distributed across the Lower Blue Mountains and Woronora Plateau (NPWS, 2003). Within the Special Area clearing for wide fire trails has disturbed a significant number of these patches where they dissect the ridgetop rock plates such as in the Nattai Tablelands.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 3.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 12.5% SD 53.0 Eucalyptus stricta, Eucalyptus apiculata, Eucalyptus multicaulis, Eucalyptus ligustrina, Eucalyptus burgessiana, Eucalyptus obstans Minor associates: Eucalyptus sclerophylla, Eucalyptus sieberi, Angophora costata, Eucalyptus piperita, Corymbia gummifera, Angophora bakeri, Eucalyptus sparsifolia

188 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 55% SD 49.5 Banksia ericifolia subsp. ericifolia, Allocasuarina nana, Allocasuarina distyla, Leptospermum trinervium, Isopogon anemonifolius, Hakea dactyloides, Petrophile pedunculata, Banksia serrata, Hakea propinqua, Mirbelia rubifolia, Kunzea capitata, Acacia suaveolens, Lambertia formosa, Leucopogon esquamatus, Epacris microphylla, Boronia floribunda, Leptospermum parvifolium Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 35% SD 7.1 Dampiera stricta, Patersonia sericea, Platysace linearifolia, Lepyrodia scariosa, Caustis flexuosa, Actinotus minor, Lomandra glauca, Schoenus imberbis, Ptilothrix deusta, Caustis pentandra, Lepidosperma viscidum, Cyathochaeta diandra

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  A dense heath dominated by Banksia ericifolia subsp. ericifolia, Leptospermum trinervium, Allocasuarina distyla, A. nana and Hakea dactyloides.  The presence of mallee Eucalypts such as Mallee Ash (Eucalyptus stricta), E. apiculata and E. burgessiana. Port Jackson Mallee (E. obstans) may also be seen and is unique to the Mallee- Heaths at lower elevations.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Kedumba Walls (Kings Tableland); Axehead Mountain; Lacys Tableland; Wild Goat Plateau; Golden Moon Bluff ridge

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 220.17 17.9 Burragorang SCA 28.34 2.3 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 849.84 69.0 Nattai SCA 91.57 7.4 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 1189.92 96.7 Total Unreserved 41.10 3.3 Total Area within Warragamba Special 1231.02 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 2500 99 Reserve Total Area of Community >2500 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 1098.27 89.2 B Moderate 131.36 10.7 C Heavy 1.39 0.1 Total 1231.02 100

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 189  THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Persoonia acerosa (V), Acacia asparagoides (2R), Epacris muelleri (3RC-), Eucalyptus apiculata (3RC-), Eucalyptus burgessiana (2RCa), Eucalyptus cunninghamii (2RCat), Hakea constablei (2RCa), Pseudanthus divaricatissimus (3RCa)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia asparagoides 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Actinotus minor 1 0.58 0 0.00 positive Allocasuarina distyla 3 0.50 1 0.00 positive Allocasuarina nana 4 0.50 4 0.02 positive Banksia ericifolia subsp. ericifolia 4 0.67 2 0.01 positive Boronia floribunda 2 0.50 3 0.00 positive Boronia pinnata 4 0.08 0 0.00 positive Brachyloma daphnoides 2 0.50 1 0.05 positive Callistemon pinifolius 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Caustis flexuosa 2 0.50 2 0.04 positive Caustis pentandra 2 0.50 2 0.00 positive Conospermum tenuifolium 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Darwinia fascicularis subsp. oligantha 3 0.42 0 0.00 positive Dillwynia acicularis 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Epacris microphylla 2 0.50 2 0.03 positive Epacris rigida 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Eucalyptus ligustrina 3 0.42 0 0.00 positive Eucalyptus multicaulis 5 0.08 0 0.00 positive Eucalyptus stricta 3 0.67 3 0.02 positive Hakea propinqua 2 0.67 1 0.00 positive Hemigenia purpurea 1 0.25 0 0.00 positive Hibbertia circumdans 3 0.08 0 0.00 positive Isopogon anemonifolius 2 0.83 2 0.06 positive Kunzea parvifolia 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Leptospermum squarrosum 5 0.08 0 0.00 positive Leptospermum trinervium 3 0.92 2 0.18 positive Lepyrodia scariosa 2 0.50 2 0.02 positive Lomandra glauca 2 0.58 2 0.17 positive Petrophile pulchella 2 0.92 2 0.03 positive Tricostularia pauciflora 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Xyris bracteata 1 0.08 0 0.00 positive Zieria laevigata 1 0.25 0 0.00 positive Lomandra longifolia 2 0.08 2 0.56 negative

190 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU62 Montane Heath-Mallee

Number of Sites: 12 No. taxa/plot: 30.0

 DESCRIPTION Montane Heath-Mallee occurs on skeletal sandy soils at elevations greater than 700 metres. The low dense heath is consistently dominated by Allocasuarina nana with Leptospermum trinervium, L. polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium, Hakea dactyloides and Banksia ericifolia subsp. ericifolia locally abundant though not present at every site. Other species can include Isopogon anemonifolius, Petrophile pulchella and Lambertia formosa. The Mallee Eucalyptus stricta is usually present, and may often be an emergent tree above the heath stratum. Ground covers include low undershrubs such as Baeckea brevifolia and Epacris microphylla growing amongst sedges such as Lepyrodia scariosa, Schoenus villosus and Lepidosperma viscidum. Montane Heath-Mallee occupies massive rock plates and residual sandstone mesas in the north west of the Special Area. Ti Willa, Narrow Neck Plateau and Kanangra Walls all provide extensive areas of this vegetation community. Heath-Mallee communities at these higher elevations are more likely to include Boronia anemonifolia var. anemonifolia, Darwinia taxifolia subsp. taxifolia, Epacris reclinata, Eucalyptus mannifera subsp. gullickii, Omphacomeria acerba, Myriophyllum latifolium, Schoenus moorei, Leptospermum grandiflorum, Leptospermum rupicola and Tetratheca bauerifolia. Outside of the Special Area similar communities are found in the Upper Blue Mountains and south to the Wadbilliga National Park and the Upper Shoalhaven (NPWS, 2000a: Ecosystem 134).

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 7% SD 5.2 Eucalyptus stricta Minor associates: Eucalyptus mannifera subsp. gullickii, Eucalyptus moorei, Eucalyptus piperita, Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata, Eucalyptus sieberi Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 52% SD 36.5 Allocasuarina nana, Isopogon anemonifolius, Hakea dactyloides, Leptospermum trinervium, Banksia ericifolia subsp. ericifolia, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Petrophile pulchella, Brachyloma daphnoides

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 191 Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 45% SD 28.9 Platysace linearifolia, Dampiera stricta, Lomandra glauca, Goodenia bellidifolia subsp. bellidifolia, Lindsaea linearis, Schoenus villosus, Lepyrodia scariosa

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Dense low heath shrub cover of Allocasuarina nana with Mallee Ash (Eucalyptus stricta), Leptospermum trinervium, Silky Hakea (Hakea sericea) and Isopogon anemonifolius.  Found on high elevation (700 metres) sandstone plateaux.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Narrow Neck Plateau; Ti Willa Plateau; Gangerang Plateau

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 165.88 68.9 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 70.52 29.3 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 236.40 98.2 Total Unreserved 4.32 1.8 Total Area within Warragamba Special 240.72 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 1173 32.3 Reserve Total Area of Community 3633 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 196.13 81.5 B Moderate 44.59 18.5 C Heavy 0 0 Total 240.72 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Almaleea incurvata (2RC-t), Leptospermum rupicola (3RC-), Pseudanthus divaricatissimus (3RCa)

192 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Allocasuarina nana 4 0.94 3 0.01 positive Babingtonia densifolia 1 0.06 0 0.00 positive Banksia ericifolia subsp. ericifolia 2 0.56 3 0.01 positive Cryptandra ericoides 2 0.06 0 0.00 positive Dampiera stricta 2 0.75 1 0.04 positive Darwinia taxifolia subsp. taxifolia 3 0.13 0 0.00 positive Epacris microphylla 2 0.56 2 0.03 positive Eucalyptus moorei 4 0.06 0 0.00 positive Eucalyptus stricta 3 0.63 3 0.01 positive Goodenia stelligera 1 0.13 0 0.00 positive Haemodorum corymbosum 2 0.06 0 0.00 positive Hakea dactyloides 2 0.88 2 0.12 positive Isopogon anemonifolius 2 0.94 2 0.05 positive Leptospermum rupicola 1 0.13 0 0.00 positive Leptospermum trinervium 2 0.81 2 0.18 positive Lepyrodia scariosa 4 0.56 2 0.02 positive Petrophile pulchella 2 0.50 2 0.03 positive Platysace linearifolia 2 0.88 2 0.06 positive Prostanthera saxicola 3 0.13 0 0.00 positive Schoenus paludosus 3 0.06 0 0.00 positive Schoenus villosus 4 0.56 1 0.00 positive Symphionema montanum 1 0.06 0 0.00 positive Lomandra longifolia 1 0.06 2 0.57 negative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 193 MU63 Loombah Heath-Mallee

Number of Sites: 3 No. taxa/plot: 29.5

 DESCRIPTION Loombah Heath-Mallee occurs on massive rock plates at elevations above 1000 metres along the Murruin Range, in the west of the Special Area. The shallow soil above the rock supports a complex of open woodland, mallee and dense heath. Low Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana and infrequent E. pauciflora are widely spaced above a lower stratum of E. stricta, Banksia marginata and Hakea dactyloides. Hibbertia serpyllifolia, Kunzea cambagei, Grevillea laurifolia and Leptospermum continentale are also prominent. The latter three species are rarely recorded within other vegetation communities of the Special Area. Sedges occur in poorly drained areas with Lepyrodia scariosa and Gahnia filifolia most common.

This community is restricted to the Loombah Plateau within the Special Area although it is also found along the Murruin Range and Great Dividing Range (toward Wombat Pinch) on isolated rock plates. It is not described elsewhere in the Bioregion and is a naturally rare community. Other heath-mallee communities, particularly those on sandstones, do not share the distinctive heath species found at Loombah Plateau.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Emergents: Mean Upper Height 7m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 1% SD 0 Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana, Eucalyptus pauciflora Trees: Mean Upper Height 4m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 19% SD 15.5 Eucalyptus stricta Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 1.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 32% SD 24.7 Banksia marginata, Hakea dactyloides, Hibbertia serpyllifolia, Kunzea cambagei, Grevillea laurifolia, Leptospermum continentale Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.4m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 60% SD 35.3 Epacris microphylla, Gahnia filifolia, Lepyrodia scariosa, Lomatia silaifolia, Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana, Sphaerolobium minus

194 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Dense heath and shrub layer with Silver Banksia (Banksia marginata), Hakea dactyloides, Hibbertia serpyllifolia and Kunzea cambagei amongst other species.  Mallee Ash (Eucalyptus stricta) with scattered Mountain Gum (E. dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana) or Snow Gum (E. pauciflora) above a dense heath.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Loombah Plateau (Murruin Range)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 93.33 96.0 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 1.18 1.2 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 94.51 97.2 Total Unreserved 2.73 2.8 Total Area within Warragamba Special 97.24 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 479 99.4 Reserve Total Area of Community 482 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 75.41 77.6 B Moderate 21.83 22.4 C Heavy 0 0 Total 97.24 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Kunzea cambagei (V), Persoonia oxycoccoides (2RCa)

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 195  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Banksia marginata 4 1.00 2 0.02 positive Baumea acuta 1 0.33 0 0.00 positive Epacris microphylla 4 0.67 2 0.03 positive Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana 2 0.67 3 0.09 positive Eucalyptus stricta 4 1.00 2 0.02 positive Gahnia filifolia 4 0.67 4 0.00 positive Goodenia bellidifolia subsp. bellidifolia 3 0.67 2 0.05 positive Grevillea laurifolia 3 0.67 2 0.01 positive Hakea dactyloides 3 1.00 2 0.12 positive Hibbertia serpyllifolia 3 1.00 2 0.01 positive Kunzea cambagei 6 0.67 1 0.00 positive Leptospermum continentale 2 0.67 2 0.01 positive Leptospermum macrocarpum 1 0.33 0 0.00 positive Lepyrodia scariosa 4 0.67 3 0.02 positive Lomatia silaifolia 3 0.67 2 0.26 positive Patersonia fragilis 2 0.67 2 0.01 positive Persoonia microphylla 2 0.33 0 0.00 positive Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana 3 0.67 2 0.19 positive Sowerbaea juncea 2 0.67 1 0.00 positive Sphaerolobium minus 2 0.67 3 0.00 positive Thelymitra ixioides var. ixioides 2 0.67 1 0.01 positive Lomandra longifolia 0 0.00 2 0.55 negative

196 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU64 Rosy Paperbark Heath

Number of Sites: 1 No. taxa/plot: 39

 DESCRIPTION Rosy Paperbark Heath is a heath community occurring on exposed low lying ridges of the Kedumba Valley. Smith & Smith (1996) have defined and mapped this community and provide the foundation of information for this profile. In the lower reaches of the Kedumba Valley, Rosy Paperbark Heath occurs on localised small patches on very shallow ridgetop soils on Permian Shoalhaven Group geology at altitudes between 150 and 200 metres. This is an unusual vegetation community that is rare in the Special Area and in the Blue Mountains generally. It is distinct from the other heath communities for its dominance by Melaleuca erubescens. It also supports a number of plant species that are uncommon elsewhere in the Study Area, notably Hibbertia cistoidea and Lepidosperma viscidum. It also supports significant plant species such as Grevillea kedumbensis.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Low Trees / Shrubs: Upper Height 6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 2% Eucalyptus crebra, Eucalyptus tereticornis, Bursaria spinosa Shrubs: Upper Height 1m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 40% Melaleuca erubescens Ground covers / Low shrubs: Upper Height 0.4m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 60% Grevillea kedumbensis, Hibbertia cistoidea, Lepidosperma viscidum

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  A low heath dominated by Rosy Paperbark (Melaleuca erubescens) with a scattered occurrence of trees such as Narrow-leaved Ironbark (Eucalyptus crebra), Forest Red Gum (E. tereticornis) and Blackthorn (Bursaria spinosa).  Restricted to low-lying ridges of the Kedumba Valley.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Kedumba Valley

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 197 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 17.83 93.1 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 1.29 6.9 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 19.12 100 Total Unreserved 0 0 Total Area within Warragamba Special 19.12 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 19 100 Reserve Total Area of Community 19 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 18.55 97.0 B Moderate 0 0 C Heavy 0.57 3.0 Total 19.12 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Grevillea kedumbensis (2KCa)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES Diagnostic species list is not available for this community.

198 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU65 Fringed Myrtle Heath

Number of Sites: 1 No. taxa/plot: 30

 DESCRIPTION Fringed Myrtle Heath is a highly localised and restricted heath community found on infertile skeletal sandy soils at the interface of Permian and Devonian geologies. It forms a low heath dominated by Micromyrtus ciliata up to one metre in height with scattered emergent taller shrubs of Hakea sericea to three metres. Some sites may also include stunted emergent Eucalyptus sparsifolia or Corymbia gummifera. Other shrubs found are typical of exposed infertile soils and include Isopogon anemonifolius, Mirbelia rubifolia, Allocasuarina littoralis and Hibbertia riparia. The lower stratum is dominated by the Cyperaceae species Lepidosperma viscidum and Ptilothrix deusta. Cryptandra amara, Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana, Lomandra obliqua and Patersonia longifolia are also seen scattered amongst the ground cover. Fringed Myrtle Heath shares some structural similarities with other sandstone plateau heath-mallees. However, Fringed Myrtle Heath does not include species such as Allocasuarina nana, Banksia ericifolia subsp. ericifolia, Leptospermum trinervium and Eucalyptus stricta, most of which are common and abundant amongst the heath-mallee communities found on the plateaux. Within the Special Area, Fringed Myrtle Heath has been recorded in Cedar Valley and Mount Merrimerrigal around the Wild Dog Mountains (R. Lembit, pers. comm.). It generally occurs in small isolated patches that are two small to map from aerial photography. It is not described outside of the Special Area although it would be expected to occur in areas of similar geology, elevation and exposure.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 10m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 5% Eucalyptus sparsifolia, Corymbia gummifera (minor emergents from neighbouring assemblages) Tall Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 3m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 5% Hakea sericea, Allocasuarina littoralis Low Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 1m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 70% Micromyrtus ciliata, Mirbelia rubifolia, Isopogon anemonifolius, Hibbertia riparia, Epacris pulchella, Micrantheum ericoides, Lissanthe strigosa, Acacia suaveolens

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 199 Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 40% Ptilothrix deusta, Lepidosperma viscidum, Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana, Patersonia longifolia, Cryptandra amara, Lomandra obliqua, Goodenia bellidifolia subsp. bellidifolia, Xanthosia pilosa, Schoenus villosus, Styphelia triflora, Patersonia glabrata, Phyllanthus hirtellus

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  A low dense heath cover of Fringed Myrtle (Micromyrtus ciliata) with Silky Hakea (Hakea sericea) and Isopogon anemonifolius possibly occurring.  A relative absence of Banksia ericifolia subsp. ericifolia, Leptospermum trinervium and Allocasuarina nana found typically in the other Plateau heaths.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Ridge between Bunba Yaka Gully and Cedar Creek (Cedar Valley); Mount Merrimerrigal (Wild Dog Mountains)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT Condition of this community has not been assessed.

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Allocasuarina littoralis 2 1 2 0.13 positive Cryptandra amara 2 1 2 0.01 positive Epacris pulchella 2 1 2 0.04 positive Eucalyptus sparsifolia 2 1 2 0.06 positive Goodenia bellidifolia subsp. bellidifolia 2 1 2 0.05 positive Hakea sericea 3 1 2 0.04 positive Hibbertia riparia 2 1 3 0.01 positive Isopogon anemonifolius 3 1 2 0.05 positive Lepidosperma viscidum 3 1 2 0.01 positive Lomandra obliqua 2 1 2 0.20 positive Micrantheum ericoides 2 1 2 0.03 positive Micromyrtus ciliata 6 1 1 0.00 positive Mirbelia rubiifolia 3 1 2 0.02 positive Patersonia longifolia 2 1 2 0.02 positive Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana 3 1 2 0.19 positive Ptilothrix deusta 4 1 3 0.01 positive Lomandra longifolia 0 0 2 0.55 negative

200 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU66 Wombeyan Limestone Scrub

Number of Sites: 2 No. taxa/plot: 38

 DESCRIPTION Wombeyan Limestone Scrub is restricted in the Special Area to exposed rocky limestone slopes around Wombeyan Caves. It forms a scrub to a height of up to four metres with sparse scattered emergent trees. The dominant stratum of this assemblage is the shrub layer, which is dominated by a moderately dense cover of Grevillea arenaria, Cassinia laevis and Acacia chalkeri. The latter species is endemic to outcropping limestone in the area. Eucalypts are sparse in cover and are most frequently Eucalyptus bridgesiana with the occasional Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus also present. The lower stratum is herbaceous with species such as Lomandra longifolia, Dichondra repens, Dianella revoluta var. revoluta, Elymus scaber var. scaber and Plectranthus parvifolius. This scrub may develop on limestone soils that have been disturbed. A significant proportion of the distribution occurs in the Special Area.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: no structural data available Eucalyptus bridgesiana, Brachychiton populneus subsp. populneus Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 4.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 40% SD 7.1 Acacia chalkeri, Grevillea arenaria, Cassinia laevis Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 23% SD 3.5 Dianella revoluta var. revoluta, Dichondra repens, Lomandra longifolia, Wahlenbergia stricta subsp. stricta, Elymus scaber var. scaber, Plectranthus parvifolius, Oxalis exilis, Geranium solanderi var. solanderi, Austrodanthonia spp.

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Limestone rock outcrops at Wombeyan Caves.  An open rocky scrub dominated by Chalker’s Wattle (Acacia chalkeri), Grevillea arenaria and Cough Bush (Cassinia laevis).

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 201  EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Wombeyan Caves

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0 0 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 25.83 51.8 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 25.83 51.8 Total Unreserved 24.05 48.2 Total Area within Warragamba Special 49.88 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 26 51.8 Reserve Total Area of Community 50 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 42.87 85.9 B Moderate 1.68 3.4 C Heavy 5.33 10.7 Total 49.88 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Acacia chalkeri (2RC-), Discaria pubescens (3RCa)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia chalkeri 3 1.00 3 0.00 positive Austrodanthonia caespitosa 2 0.50 2 0.01 positive Austrodanthonia pilosa 2 0.50 2 0.03 positive Austrodanthonia racemosa var. racemosa 4 0.50 2 0.07 positive Austrostipa rudis subsp. nervosa 3 0.50 2 0.06 positive Brachyscome graminea 2 0.50 1 0.04 positive Carex breviculmis 2 0.50 1 0.08 positive Cassinia laevis 4 1.00 2 0.05 positive Chamaesyce dallachyana 2 0.50 2 0.00 positive Clematis aristata 2 0.50 2 0.33 positive Clematis glycinoides var. glycinoides 2 0.50 2 0.17 positive Convolvulus erubescens 2 0.50 1 0.01 positive Cymbopogon refractus 2 0.50 2 0.11 positive Dianella revoluta var. revoluta 3 1.00 2 0.25 positive

202 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Dichelachne micrantha 2 0.50 2 0.14 positive Dichondra repens 3 1.00 3 0.39 positive Dodonaea viscosa subsp. angustifolia 2 0.50 2 0.04 positive Elymus scaber var. scaber 2 1.00 2 0.06 positive Geranium solanderi var. solanderi 3 0.50 2 0.13 positive Gonocarpus tetragynus 2 0.50 2 0.24 positive Grevillea arenaria 5 1.00 2 0.07 positive Hydrocotyle geraniifolia 2 0.50 2 0.05 positive Hydrocotyle laxiflora 2 0.50 2 0.21 positive Plantago debilis 2 0.50 2 0.18 positive Plantago hispida 2 0.50 2 0.00 positive Plectranthus parviflorus 2 1.00 2 0.16 positive Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei 2 0.50 2 0.14 positive Senna odorata 2 0.50 1 0.00 positive Wahlenbergia gracilis 2 0.50 1 0.16 positive Wahlenbergia stricta subsp. stricta 3 1.00 2 0.10 positive Lomandra longifolia 3 1.00 2 0.57 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 203 MU67 Kowmung Acacia Scrub

Number of Sites: 4 No. taxa/plot: 17.5

 DESCRIPTION Kowmung Acacia Scrub is found on the very steep and rocky north and west facing slopes of the upper Kowmung River. This deeply dissected country often forms a rock scree that is unstable, and supports only a thin cover of soil. Underlying geologies include Devonian and Silurian metamorphic sediments. Acacia clunies-rossiae is the dominant shrub species sometimes reaching a height of eight metres (Steenbeeke, 1990). Other shrub species such as Cassinia longifolia, Olearia viscidula and Bursaria spinosa also occur at lower frequency. The understorey contains a high abundance of the herb Teucrium corymbosum, amongst other vines and herbs such as Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana, Desmodium brachypodum, Plectranthus parvifolius, and Clematis aristata. It has also been noted (Steenbeeke, 1990) that the understorey is variable, dependent largely on exposure and varies between a very sparse herb layer with a few small grasses or herbs, to a ground cover that features Stellaria pungens, S. flaccida, Urtica incisa and Pratia purpurascens in more protected situations. Eucalypts are infrequent, typically sparse and often stunted. Sites have included Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata, though E. dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana, E. punctata, E. tereticornis and E. blaxlandii have also been observed in the field. Acacia clunies-rossiae is endemic to the Kowmung area. While it is known to occur amongst a number of open forests and woodlands throughout the valley, areas that form dense scrubs are rare.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Emergents: Approximate Height 15-20m. Approximate Canopy Cover 5-15% Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata, Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana, Eucalyptus punctata, Eucalyptus tereticornis, Eucalyptus blaxlandii Tall Shrubs: Approximate Height 4-8m. Approximate Canopy Cover 60-80% Acacia clunies-rossiae Low Shrubs: Approximate Height 1-6m. Approximate Canopy Cover 10-30% Olearia viscidula, Bursaria spinosa, Cassinia longifolia, Astrotricha latifolia Ground covers: Approximate Height 0-1m. Approximate Canopy Cover 30-50% Teucrium corymbosum, Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana, Desmodium brachypodum, Plectranthus parviflorus, Clematis aristata, Poa labillardieri var. labillardieri, Solanum stelligerum

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Very visible by the blue hue of the Kowmung Wattle (Acacia clunies-rossiae) foliage that form dense even aged scrubs and thickets.  Grows on very steep, unstable, exposed slopes in the Kowmung Valley.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS North facing slopes of Christys Creek Gorge (Kowmung River); slopes above Church Creek Cave

204 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 51.00 16.7 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 254.21 83.3 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 305.21 100 Total Unreserved 0.01 0 Total Area within Warragamba Special 305.22 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 305 100 Reserve Total Area of Community 305 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 280.19 91.8 B Moderate 25.03 8.2 C Heavy 0 0 Total 305.22 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Acacia clunies-rossiae (V)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia clunies-rossiae 3 1.00 2 0.04 positive Astrotricha latifolia 3 0.50 2 0.09 positive Bursaria spinosa 3 0.75 2 0.25 positive Cassinia longifolia 4 0.50 2 0.03 positive Clematis aristata 2 0.50 2 0.35 positive Desmodium brachypodum 3 0.50 2 0.09 positive Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata 3 0.50 3 0.10 positive Geitonoplesium cymosum 2 0.50 2 0.29 positive Olearia viscidula 4 0.75 2 0.32 positive Pandorea pandorana subsp. pandorana 2 0.75 2 0.26 positive Plectranthus parviflorus 3 0.50 2 0.17 positive Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei 2 0.50 2 0.14 positive Solanum stelligerum 2 0.50 2 0.01 positive Teucrium corymbosum 4 1.00 2 0.02 positive Lomandra longifolia 0 0.00 2 0.55 negative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 205 MU68 Highlands Peat Swamp

Number of Sites: 1 No. taxa/plot: 22

 DESCRIPTION Highlands Peat Swamps occur across the high elevation plateaux in damp, peaty, shallow alluvial depressions. Along drainage lines the vegetation becomes dominated by a dense cover of sedges that includes a high abundance of Mitrasacme serpyllifolia, Lepyrodia anarthria, Baumea rubiginosa and Epacris microphylla. A closed wet heath, dominated by Leptospermum obovatum also occurs, often on the margins of the drainage line on the periphery of the sedgeland. Eucalyptus stellulata may occur as a sparse stunted emergent small tree. The peaty substrate may also support the moss Sphagnum novozealandicum. Away from the drainage line, the soil is less frequently waterlogged with the vegetation often grading into an open woodland described as Highlands Swamp Gum-Tea- tree Heath-Woodland (MU69). Highlands Peat Swamps are found across the Southern Highlands and Tablelands at elevations above 600 metres. NPWS (2000a) indicate that these types of swamps (Ecosystem 148) are not well conserved and have been heavily cleared across their range. Grazing, damage by feral pigs and fire present ongoing threats to this community.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Approximate Height 2-6m. Approximate Canopy Cover 5-20% Eucalyptus stellulata Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 65% Leptospermum obovatum, Pultenaea dentata Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 80% S Lepyrodia anarthria, Baumea rubiginosa, Epacris microphylla, Mitrasacme serpyllifolia, Baloskion australe, Galium propinquum, Centella asiatica, Sphagnum novozealandicum

206 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Wet boggy, peaty soil on the Bindook Highlands.  Closed wet heath of Leptospermum obovatum.  Dense cover of sedges such as Baumea rubiginosa, Carex gaudichaudiana and Lepyrodia anarthria.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Bent Hook Swamp (Bindook Highlands)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 41.75 54.6 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 41.75 54.6 Total Unreserved 34.65 45.4 Total Area within Warragamba Special 76.40 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 42 1.0 Reserve Total Area of Community 4266 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 70.77 92.6 B Moderate 5.63 7.4 C Heavy 0 0 Total 76.40 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 207  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Group Freq Class Score Baloskion australe 2 1 5 0.00 positive Baumea rubiginosa 4 1 3 0.00 positive Centella asiatica 3 1 2 0.02 positive Epacris microphylla 4 1 2 0.03 positive Galium propinquum 4 1 2 0.10 positive Hemarthria uncinata var. uncinata 3 1 4 0.00 positive Hydrocotyle peduncularis 3 1 2 0.07 positive Hypericum japonicum 2 1 2 0.01 positive Leptospermum obovatum 6 1 2 0.01 positive Lepyrodia anarthria 5 1 4 0.01 positive Mitrasacme serpyllifolia 3 1 2 0.00 positive Myriophyllum pedunculatum subsp. pedunculatum 3 1 0 0.00 positive Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei 2 1 2 0.14 positive Pultenaea dentata 3 1 3 0.00 positive Schoenus apogon 2 1 2 0.01 positive Lomandra longifolia 0 0 2 0.55 negative

208 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU69 Highlands Swamp Gum-Tea-tree Heath-Woodland

Number of Sites: 4 No. taxa/plot: 37.5

 DESCRIPTION Highlands Swamp Gum-Tea-tree Heath- Woodland is a swamp complex found across the high elevation tableland soaks in the Bindook Highlands. While the structural form of this community is variable, the composition of herbs and grasses is more consistent. As with many assemblages occurring across damp soils, many local variations may be seen where particular species may be locally very dominant. The variations may best be described in conjunction with the drainage gradient. On waterlogged Quaternary Alluviums found within the larger swamps of the Bindook Highlands, dense thickets of tea- tree form. Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium, L. continentale or L. grandifolium are prominent. Emergent Eucalypts are common on the fringes of the scrub and form a woodland of Eucalyptus ovata with E. mannifera subsp. mannifera. The understorey frequently includes Lepyrodia anarthria, Lomandra longifolia, Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana, Microlaena stipoides, Epacris microphylla and Juncus continuus. Where the soil is drier, an open fringing woodland is marked by an abundance of Lomandra longifolia along with Schoenus apogon, Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana, Dichondra repens and Carex breviculmis. Trees are taller and include Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana, E. viminalis and E. radiata subsp. radiata. Similar vegetation is found outside the Special Area across the Southern Highlands in cold swampy environments. Pig wallows and rootings are widespread throughout this community and represent an ongoing threatening process.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 21m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 9% SD 5.1 Eucalyptus ovata, Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana, Eucalyptus viminalis, Eucalyptus radiata subsp. radiata, Eucalyptus mannifera subsp. mannifera, Eucalyptus stellulata Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 23% SD 31.7 Leptospermum continentale, Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium, Leptospermum grandifolium, Grevillea laurifolia, Callistemon citrinus

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 209 Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.9m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 77% SD 26.7 Gonocarpus tetragynus, Microlaena stipoides, Lomandra longifolia, Dichondra repens, Helichrysum scorpioides, Hypericum gramineum, Pratia purpurascens, Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana, Lepyrodia anarthria, Austrodanthonia spp., Schoenus apogon

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Dense Tea-tree Scrub (Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium, L. continentale, L. grandifolium), although this may become absent in drier gradients where the lower stratum may become dominated by Lomandra longifolia.  Drainage lines or permanent soaks at high elevations.  The presence of Swamp Gum (Eucalyptus ovata), Brittle Gum (E. mannifera subsp. mannifera) or Mountain Gum (E. dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana) in the canopy.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Tomat Swamp, Random Swamp, Back Swamps and Colong Swamp (Bindook Highlands)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 671.84 70.0 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 5.85 0.6 Total Reserved 677.69 70.6 Total Unreserved 282.20 29.4 Total Area within Warragamba Special 959.89 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 678 15.9 Reserve Total Area of Community 4266 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 209.73 21.8 B Moderate 283.96 29.6 C Heavy 466.20 48.6 Total 959.89 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

210 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Centella asiatica 3 0.50 2 0.02 positive Dichondra repens 3 0.75 3 0.39 positive Epacris pulchella 2 0.50 2 0.04 positive Eucalyptus dalrympleana subsp. dalrympleana 3 0.50 2 0.07 positive Eucalyptus ovata 4 0.75 5 0.00 positive Gonocarpus tetragynus 3 1.00 2 0.24 positive Goodenia bellidifolia subsp. bellidifolia 3 0.50 2 0.04 positive Goodenia hederacea subsp. hederacea 2 0.50 2 0.27 positive Grevillea laurifolia 4 0.50 2 0.01 positive Helichrysum scorpioides 3 0.50 2 0.14 positive Hydrocotyle peduncularis 2 0.75 2 0.08 positive Hypericum gramineum 3 0.50 2 0.17 positive Juncus continuus 3 0.50 2 0.00 positive Leptospermum continentale 3 1.00 2 0.01 positive Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium 4 0.75 2 0.12 positive Lepyrodia anarthria 4 0.50 4 0.01 positive Lepyrodia scariosa 2 0.50 3 0.02 positive Lomandra filiformis subsp. coriacea 2 0.50 2 0.19 positive Microlaena stipoides 3 1.00 2 0.41 positive Poa sieberiana var. sieberiana 4 0.75 3 0.19 positive Poranthera microphylla 2 0.50 2 0.20 positive Schoenus apogon 4 0.50 1 0.01 positive Schoenus maschalinus 2 0.50 1 0.00 positive Viola betonicifolia 3 0.50 2 0.09 positive Lomandra longifolia 3 1.00 2 0.57 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 211 MU70 Montane Sedgeland-Heath

Number of Sites: 2 No. taxa/plot: 20

 DESCRIPTION Montane Sedgeland-Heath forms a closed sedgeland assemblage with a high frequency of Cyperoid and Restioid species such as Empodisma minus, Lepyrodia anarthria, Baumea rubiginosa, Baloskion fimbriatum, Chorizandra sphaerocephala and Lepidosperma limicola. The small shrub Epacris microphylla is often highly abundant amidst the sedge layer. A tree canopy is generally absent although occasional shrubs are encountered such as Allocasuarina nana, Leptospermum grandiflorum, L. continentale, Banksia marginata and Hakea microcarpa. It occurs in the headwaters of gullies and other seepage zones associated with minor drainage lines of gentle gradients. Within the Special Area it is restricted to higher elevations (above 850 metres) on Permian and Ordovician metasediments. Generally this sedgeland community forms small isolated patches on undulating landscapes. Soil is periodically dry and sandy, and supports a less developed peat layer than wet sedgelands and heaths found on upland and hanging swamps of the Blue Mountains Sandstone Plateau. Outside of the Special Area, Montane Sedgeland-Heath has similar distribution patterns, although it is often found in cooler environments at lower elevations on the Southern Highlands and Central Tablelands.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 1.6m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 6% Leptospermum continentale, Leptospermum grandifolium, Allocasuarina nana, Hakea microcarpa, Baeckea linifolia, Banksia marginata Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 95% Empodisma minus, Baumea rubiginosa, Epacris microphylla, Lepyrodia anarthria, Lepidosperma limicola, Xyris operculata, Mitrasacme serpyllifolia, Selaginella uliginosa, Chorizandra sphaerocephala

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Dense closed sedgeland structure.  Lack of tree canopy species.

212 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 Abundance of Sedges from families Cyperaceae and Restionaceae such as Empodisma minus, Baumea rubiginosa, Lepyrodia anarthria and Lepidosperma limicola as well as Mitrasacme serpyllifolia, Xyris operculata and Epacris microphylla.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Dex Creek (Gangerang Plateau), Loombah Plateau

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 30.46 76.3 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 7.71 19.3 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 38.17 956 Total Unreserved 1.74 4.4 Total Area within Warragamba Special 39.91 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 38 15.8 Reserve Total Area of Community >240 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 36.98 92.7 B Moderate 2.93 7.3 C Heavy 0 0 Total 39.91 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Asperula gunnii 2 0.50 2 0.00 positive Austrostipa pubescens 3 0.50 2 0.04 positive Baeckea linifolia 4 0.50 3 0.01 positive Baloskion fimbriatum 4 0.50 2 0.00 positive Baumea rubiginosa 4 1.00 4 0.00 positive Burchardia umbellata 1 0.50 0 0.00 positive Chorizandra sphaerocephala 3 0.50 0 0.00 positive Empodisma minus 6 1.00 3 0.01 positive Epacris microphylla 4 1.00 2 0.03 positive Gonocarpus micranthus 2 0.50 3 0.00 positive Goodenia paniculata 2 0.50 1 0.00 positive

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 213 Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Hakea microcarpa 3 0.50 1 0.00 positive Isolepis habra 2 0.50 1 0.00 positive Lepidosperma limicola 5 1.00 3 0.00 positive Leptospermum continentale 3 1.00 2 0.01 positive Leptospermum grandifolium 3 0.50 1 0.00 positive Lepyrodia anarthria 4 1.00 2 0.01 positive Mitrasacme serpyllifolia 4 1.00 2 0.00 positive Poa sieberiana var. cyanophylla 3 0.50 2 0.02 positive Pultenaea canescens 2 0.50 0 0.00 positive Pultenaea divaricata 4 0.50 1 0.00 positive Selaginella uliginosa 3 0.50 2 0.00 positive Tetrarrhena turfosa 4 1.00 3 0.00 positive Velleia montana 2 0.50 3 0.00 positive Viola fuscoviolacea 2 0.50 0 0.00 positive Xyris operculata 4 0.50 0 0.00 positive

214 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU71 Upland Swamps: Cyperoid Heath

Number of Sites: 1 No. taxa/plot: 13

 DESCRIPTION Upland Swamps: Cyperoid Heath forms a component of the hanging swamp complex found on the Hawkesbury and Narrabeen Sandstone Plateaux. These areas are periodically waterlogged forming a dense cover of sedges from the Cyperaceae family. Gymnoschoenus sphaerocephalus can be dominant reaching heights over one metre. Other species from this family include Lepidosperma limicola and Chorizandra sphaerocephala. A number of other species common to Restioid Heaths such as Empodisma minus and Gleichenia dicarpa are also present. Scattered shrubs can include Baeckea linifolia, Leptospermum lanigerum, L. juniperinum and Hakea teretifolia. Eucalyptus mannifera subsp. gullickii occurs as a low growing, sparsely distributed emergent on the Narrow Neck Plateau. Keith and Benson (1988) describe the correlation of these sedge swamps with an underlying claystone rim that surrounds the upslope area of the swamp. Water gathers downslope to form the hanging swamp. This rim is often clearly visible with a corresponding change in vegetation (Keith and Benson, 1988). Cyperoid Heath is widespread across the Blue Mountains National Park and is also closely related to similarly named communities found across the Woronora Plateau (NPWS, 2003).

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 5% Eucalyptus mannifera subsp. gullickii Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 50% Baeckea linifolia, Leptospermum lanigerum, Leptospermum juniperinum, Hakea teretifolia Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 1m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 90% Gymnoschoenus sphaerocephalus, Lepidosperma limicola, Empodisma minus, Gleichenia dicarpa

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 215  KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Dense sedge layer dominated by Gymnoschoenus sphaerocephalus and Lepidosperma limicola.  Often treeless swamps at the head of gullies with a sparse layer of Tea-trees (Leptospermum spp.).

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Headwaters of Cedar Head Swamp (Narrow Neck Plateau)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 90.62 79.8 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 90.62 79.8 Total Unreserved 22.96 20.2 Total Area within Warragamba Special 113.59 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 41830* 89 Reserve Total Area of Community >47000* 100 *Upland Swamp communities have not been mapped separately outside this report. CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 90.51 79.7 B Moderate 23.08 20.3 C Heavy 0 0 Total 113.59 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Almaleea incurvata (2RC-t)

216 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Almaleea incurvata 2 1 3 0.00 positive Baeckea linifolia 5 1 3 0.01 positive Empodisma minus 3 1 3 0.01 positive Gleichenia dicarpa 2 1 2 0.01 positive Gymnoschoenus sphaerocephalus 7 1 0 0.00 positive Hakea teretifolia 2 1 2 0.00 positive Lepidosperma limicola 3 1 2 0.00 positive Leptospermum juniperinum 2 1 3 0.00 positive Leptospermum lanigerum 3 1 3 0.00 positive Sprengelia sprengelioides 3 1 0 0.00 positive Lomandra longifolia 0 0 2 0.55 negative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 217 MU72 Upland Swamps: Tea-tree Thicket

Number of Sites: 2 No. taxa/plot: 22.5

 DESCRIPTION Upland Swamp: Tea-tree Thicket occurs on drainage lines and seepage zones within upland or hanging swamps on sandstone plateaux. These areas form deep highly organic peaty soils as a result of constant waterlogging and anaerobic soil conditions (Keith and Myerscough, 1993). This supports a wet heath that is characterised by Leptospermum juniperinum and L. polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium with Melaleuca linariifolia and Callistemon citrinus less abundant. The abundance of these Tea-tree thickets may be sparse to absent depending on water table fluctuation and long term fire history (Keith, 1994). Sedges from Cyperaceae and Restionaceae families dominate the ground cover and include Empodisma minus, Baumea nuda, Lepyrodia anarthria and Baloskion fimbriatum. Ground covers can also include a dense mat of Gleichenia microphylla and G. dicarpa. This community is prominent near the heads of gently sloping gullies and drainage lines, such as those found on Lacys Tableland. It is not extensive in the Special Area though it is found throughout the Blue Mountains and across the Woronora Plateau in the Metropolitan Catchments. It is well reserved within National Park Estate in the Sydney Basin Bioregion.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Emergent Trees: no structural data available Eucalyptus sclerophylla Trees: Mean Upper Height 5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 35% SD 35.5 Melaleuca linariifolia, Callistemon citrinus Shrubs: Mean Upper Height 2m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 60% Leptospermum juniperinum, Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium, Baeckea linifolia, Acacia obtusifolia Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.75m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 88% SD 10.6 Empodisma minus, Baumea nuda, Leptocarpus tenax, Gleichenia microphylla, Baloskion fimbriatum, Lepyrodia anarthria, Epacris obtusifolia, Gahnia sieberiana, Sphaerolobium vimineum

218 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Dense thickets of Tea-trees (Leptospermum spp.).  Drainage lines and soaks within hanging swamps on Hawkesbury or Narrabeen Sandstones.  Sometimes may feature a narrow band of Coral Fern (Gleichenia spp.) with tall Swamp Saw Sedge (Gahnia sieberiana) with shrub species sparse to absent.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Headwaters of Lacys Creek (Lacys Tableland)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 110.44 91.6 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 2.11 1.8 Nattai SCA 5.23 4.3 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 117.78 97.7 Total Unreserved 2.79 2.3 Total Area within Warragamba Special 120.57 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 41830* 89 Reserve Total Area of Community >47000* 100 *Upland Swamp communities have not been mapped separately outside this report. CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 100.51 83.4 B Moderate 20.06 16.6 C Heavy 0 0 Total 120.57 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Almaleea incurvata (2RC-t)

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 219  DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia obtusifolia 3 0.50 2 0.11 positive Acacia rubida 3 1.00 3 0.00 positive Almaleea incurvata 3 0.50 2 0.00 positive Baeckea linifolia 4 1.00 2 0.01 positive Baloskion fimbriatum 2 0.50 2 0.00 positive Baumea nuda 4 1.00 1 0.00 positive Drosera auriculata 3 0.50 2 0.01 positive Drosera binata 2 0.50 0 0.00 positive Empodisma minus 3 1.00 3 0.01 positive Epacris obtusifolia 2 0.50 3 0.00 positive Gahnia sieberiana 2 1.00 1 0.01 positive Gleichenia microphylla 2 0.50 2 0.01 positive Gonocarpus micranthus subsp. ramosissimus 2 1.00 0 0.00 positive Hibbertia riparia 3 0.50 2 0.01 positive Hydrocotyle peduncularis 2 0.50 2 0.07 positive Hypericum gramineum 2 0.50 2 0.14 positive Lepidosperma limicola 2 0.50 3 0.00 positive Leptocarpus tenax 3 0.50 3 0.00 positive Leptospermum juniperinum 6 1.00 2 0.00 positive Leptospermum polygalifolium subsp. polygalifolium 5 1.00 2 0.13 positive Lepyrodia anarthria 4 1.00 4 0.01 positive Lepyrodia scariosa 6 0.50 3 0.02 positive Lycopodiella cernua 3 0.50 0 0.00 positive Melaleuca linariifolia 4 1.00 2 0.02 positive Mirbelia rubiifolia 2 1.00 3 0.02 positive Sphaerolobium vimineum 3 1.00 3 0.00 positive Velleia montana 4 1.00 2 0.00 positive Viola sieberiana 2 0.50 2 0.00 positive Lomandra longifolia 1 0.50 2 0.55 negative

220 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU73 Sandstone Brittle Gum Swamp Woodland Number of Sites: 0 No. taxa/plot: N/A

 DESCRIPTION Sandstone Brittle Gum Swamp Woodland marks the ecotone between wet heaths and sedgelands associated with swamp depressions and surrounding sandstone woodlands. The woodland is low and open and is dominated by Eucalyptus mannifera subsp. gullickii. Eucalyptus sieberi shares the canopy where the community grades into sandstone woodland. It covers broad rock plates and benches on skeletal poorly drained soils associated with residual Permian sandstones and adjoining alluviums. As a result the understorey comprises a combination of species that prefer or may tolerate damp environments. Species observed amongst the shrub layer include Leptospermum juniperinum, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa and Hakea teretifolia. Ground covers are likely to include sporadic cover of Empodisma minus, Cyathochaeta diandra and Entolasia stricta. Sandstone Brittle Gum Swamp Woodland has not been formally sampled during this project. The composition of the species found within this community requires further investigation and is presently based on informal field observations. It appears that the community is naturally restricted in the Special Area to elevations above 800 metres on the Bindook Highlands and the Narrow Neck Peninsula. Recent vegetation mapping in the Blue Mountains Local Government Area (ESP, 2001) indicate the presence of a similar community although it too is not robustly classified.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: No structural data available Eucalyptus mannifera subsp. gullickii, Eucalyptus sieberi Shrubs: No structural data available Leptospermum juniperinum, Leptospermum trinervium, Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa, Persoonia levis, Persoonia linearis Ground covers: No structural data available Cyathochaeta diandra, Lomandra obliqua, Entolasia stricta, Empodisma minus

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Ecotonal area between wet heaths, sedgelands and seepage areas and sandstone woodlands.  Low open woodland dominated by Brittle Gum (Eucalyptus mannifera subsp. gullickii).

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 221  EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Narrow Neck Peninsula; On rises above Gumbedding Swamp (Bindook Highlands)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 324.31 85.0 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 30.50 8.0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 354.81 93.0 Total Unreserved 26.72 7.0 Total Area within Warragamba Special 381.53 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS Reserve Total Area of Community

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 314.77 82.5 B Moderate 66.76 17.5 C Heavy 0 0 Total 381.53 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES Diagnostic species list is not available for this community as no sites were undertaken.

222 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

MU74 Thirlmere Sand Swamp Woodland

Number of Sites: 1 No. taxa/plot: 19

 DESCRIPTION Thirlmere Sand Swamp Woodland is a low woodland occupying sandy drainage flats adjoining the eastern side of Thirlmere Lakes. Low Eucalyptus parramattensis subsp. parramattensis forms an open canopy along with Melaleuca linariifolia. Shrubs are scattered and include Acacia longifolia subsp. longifolia, Pultenaea villosa, Melaleuca thymifolia and Leptospermum continentale. The ground cover comprises a dense cover of sedges, rushes and grasses that include Entolasia stricta, Lepyrodia muelleri, Lomandra longifolia and Schoenus brevifolius. Thirlmere Sand Swamp Woodland is unique to the Special Area. Other loosely related sand swamp woodlands are found at several disjunct locations in the Sydney Basin Bioregion including Castlereagh, Mellong Swamps, Kurri Kurri and Tomago near Newcastle. The low nutrient sandy substrate underlying this community makes this assemblage particularly vulnerable to increased nutrient loads from surrounding suburban runoff (Benson and Howell, 1994).

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Approximate Height 12-18m. Approximate Canopy Cover 20–40% Eucalyptus parramattensis subsp. parramattensis Small Trees: Approximate Height 6-12m. Approximate Canopy Cover 20-50% Melaleuca linariifolia Shrubs: Approximate Height 1-3m. Approximate Canopy Cover 10-20% Acacia longifolia subsp. longifolia, Pultenaea villosa, Melaleuca thymifolia, Leptospermum continentale, Baeckea diosmifolia Ground covers: Approximate Height 0-1m. Approximate Canopy Cover 70-100% Lepyrodia muelleri, Entolasia stricta, Hemarthria uncinata, Schoenus brevifolius, Cassytha glabella forma glabella

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 223  KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Low open woodland of Parramatta Red Gum (Eucalyptus parramattensis subsp. parramattensis) and Melaleuca linariifolia.  Dense sedge-grass understorey of Lepyrodia muelleri.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Thirlmere Lakes

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0 0 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 8.78 94.3 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 8.78 99.9 Total Unreserved 0.01 0.1 Total Area within Warragamba Special 8.79 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 9 100 Reserve Total Area of Community 9 100 CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 8.79 100 B Moderate 0 0 C Heavy 0 0 Total 8.79 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Acacia longifolia subsp. longifolia 3 1 2 0.07 positive Baeckea diosmifolia 1 1 0 0.00 positive Banksia spinulosa var. spinulosa 2 1 2 0.23 positive Cassytha glabella forma glabella 2 1 1 0.06 positive Entolasia stricta 3 1 2 0.38 positive Eucalyptus parramattensis subsp. parramattensis 3 1 1 0.00 positive Imperata cylindrica var. major 2 1 2 0.07 positive Leptospermum continentale 2 1 2 0.01 positive

224 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Lepyrodia muelleri 4 1 0 0.00 positive Melaleuca linariifolia 2 1 1 0.03 positive Melaleuca thymifolia 3 1 3 0.00 positive Pultenaea villosa 3 1 4 0.01 positive Schoenus brevifolius 2 1 2 0.01 positive Lomandra longifolia 3 1 2 0.56 constant

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 225 MU75 Lepironia Freshwater Wetland

Number of Sites: 0

 DESCRIPTION Lepironia Freshwater Wetland occurs in shallow waters on the fringes of the Thirlmere Lakes. Benson and Howell (1994) have described the gradation of the wetlands present at these sites and these have been used for this profile in the absence of formal sampling. In deeper waters, tall sedges Lepironia articulata and Eleocharis sphacelata may emerge up to two to three metres above the water. Floating leaves of the rare water plant Brasenia schreberi may be conspicuous here. Along the shoreline and in shallower water is a sedgeland of Lepidosperma longitudinale one to two metres high with some Baumea teretifolia along the shoreline. These wetlands are subject to fluctuating water levels with concomitant variations to the boundary of the vegetation. ANCA (1996) indicate that the Thirlmere Lakes are of high conservation value given the unusual origin. A number of unusual aquatic species have been recorded including Lemna trisulca, Utricularia spp. and the freshwater sponge Radiospongilla sceptroides. Thirlmere Lakes represents the southern most locality of the main species Lepironia articulata.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Ground covers: Height Range 1-2m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 80% Lepironia articulata, Eleocharis sphacelata, Brasenia schreberi, Lepidosperma longitudinale, Baumea teretifolia

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  A sedgeland dominated by the Cyperaceae species Lepironia articulata and Tall Spike-rush (Eleocharis sphacelata) found in mud and shallow waters fringing the Thirlmere Lakes.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Thirlmere Lakes Wetlands

226 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 0 0 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 30.77 89.1 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 30.77 89.1 Total Unreserved 3.76 10.9 Total Area within Warragamba Special 34.53 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS N/A N/A Reserve Total Area of Community N/A N/A

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 22.37 64.8 B Moderate 12.16 35.2 C Heavy 0 0 Total 34.53 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES Brasenia schreberi (3VC-)

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES Diagnostic species list is not available for this community as no sites were undertaken.

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 227 MU76 River Fringe Reedland

Number of Sites: 1 No. taxa/plot: 35

 DESCRIPTION River Fringe Reedland occurs along the banks of freshwater rivers and creeks on waterlogged, mobile alluvium. It is a rush dominant assemblage with Typha domingensis or T. orientalis and Juncus usitatus forming the dominant species to a height of 1.5 metres. Casuarina cunninghamiana subsp. cunninghamiana is often found overhanging. Other shorter herbs and forbs occur as a lower stratum and include a dominance of Schoenoplectus validus in combination with Alternanthera denticulata, Centipeda cunninghamii, Hydrocotyle peduncularis, Persicaria decipiens, Persicaria hydropiper and Eleocharis acuta. Many of these species are unique to river bank environments. The composition of this community is highly variable in response to changes in water level and flow. Many patches are small, and have not been mapped at the present scale. The community is widespread though transient across freshwater rivers and streams of the Sydney Basin Bioregion.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Trees: Mean Upper Height 5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 2% Casuarina cunninghamiana subsp. cunninghamiana, Callistemon sieberi Reeds: Mean Upper Height 1.5m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 30% Typha domingensis, Typha orientalis Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.4m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 15% Alternanthera denticulata, Eleocharis acuta, Centipeda cunninghamii, Hydrocotyle peduncularis, Persicaria decipiens, Persicaria hydropiper, Schoenoplectus validus

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  Reedland dominated by Cumbungi (Typha domingensis or T. orientalis).  Other species include Eleocharis acuta, Water pepper (Persicaria hydropiper) and Slender Knotweed (P. decipiens).  On the fringe of water courses, sometimes submerged.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS Murphy’s Crossing (Wollondilly River)

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT Condition of this vegetation has not been assessed.

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

228 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Alternanthera denticulata 3 1 2 0.00 positive Casuarina cunninghamiana subsp. cunninghamiana 2 1 4 0.03 positive Centipeda cunninghamii 3 1 0 0.00 positive Eleocharis acuta 2 1 2 0.00 positive Hydrocotyle peduncularis 3 1 2 0.07 positive Persicaria decipiens 3 1 2 0.01 positive Persicaria hydropiper 3 1 1 0.00 positive Persicaria prostrata 1 1 0 0.00 positive Schoenoplectus validus 3 1 0 0.00 positive Typha domingensis 4 1 0 0.00 positive Lomandra longifolia 0 0 2 0.55 negative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 229 MU77 Bindook Highlands Grassland

Number of Sites: 1 No. taxa/plot: 25

 DESCRIPTION Bindook Highlands Grassland occurs amongst the complex of swampy hollows and Peat Bogs found on the Silurian metasediments at elevations above 700 metres. It is dominated by tussocks of Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei. A diversity of other forbs, rushes and herbs is also found, including Juncus sarophorus, Stellaria angustifolia, Viola caleyana, Ranunculus lappaceus, Carex inversa, C. gaudichaudiana, Hydrocotyle peduncularis, Cyperus lucidus and Eleocharis acuta. These native grasslands are not extensive in the Special Area and tend to form small isolated patches in frost hollows and in areas of intermittent water-logging. Pigs can have a significant impact on these grasslands with widespread evidence of wallows, rootings and trampling observed throughout the survey area. Bindook Highlands Grasslands grade into Highlands Peat Swamps (MU68) dominated by Leptospermum spp. where soil moisture increases.

 FLORISTIC SUMMARY Ground covers: Mean Upper Height 0.8m. Mean Projected Canopy Cover 95% Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei, Carex gaudichaudiana, Hydrocotyle peduncularis, Ranunculus lappaceus, Juncus sarophorus, Stellaria angustifolia, Viola caleyana, Carex inversa, Cyperus lucidus, Eleocharis acuta

 KEY IDENTIFYING FEATURES Easily recognisable features to assist in identifying this map unit are:  This assemblage can easily be distinguished by dense clumps of Tussock (Poa labillardierei var. labillardierei) in areas of high elevation.  Often found near or adjoining Peat Swamps and Swamp Gum Woodlands.

 EXAMPLE LOCATIONS The Back Swamps (Bindook Highlands)

230 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

 CONDITION ASSESSMENT RESERVATION STATUS

Reserve Area Proportion (ha) (%) Bargo SCA 0 0 Blue Mountains NP 10.32 71.5 Burragorang SCA 0 0 Joadja NR 0 0 Kanangra-Boyd NP 0 0 Nattai NP 0 0 Nattai SCA 0 0 Thirlmere Lakes NP 0 0 Wollondilly River NR 0 0 Yerranderie SCA 0 0 Total Reserved 10.32 71.5 Total Unreserved 4.11 28.5 Total Area within Warragamba Special 14.43 100 Area

Total Area of Community within NPWS 10 71.5 Reserve Total Area of Community 14 100

CONDITION ASSESSMENT

Disturbance Class Area (ha) Proportion Extant (%) A Light 4.89 33.9 B Moderate 2.66 18.4 C Heavy 6.88 47.7 Total 14.43 100

 THREATENED PLANT SPECIES None recorded

 DIAGNOSTIC SPECIES

Species Name Group Group Non Group Non Group Fidelity Score Freq Score Freq Class Carex gaudichaudiana 4 1 1 0.00 positive Carex inversa 2 1 2 0.03 positive Chionogentias spp. 3 1 0 0.00 positive Cyperus lucidus 2 1 4 0.00 positive Eleocharis acuta 2 1 2 0.00 positive Epilobium gunnianum 2 1 2 0.00 positive Geranium neglectum 2 1 2 0.04 positive Gratiola peruviana 2 1 1 0.00 positive Hydrocotyle peduncularis 4 1 2 0.07 positive Juncus sarophorus 3 1 0 0.00 positive Poa labillardierei var labillardierei 6 1 2 0.14 positive Ranunculus inundatus 2 1 0 0.00 positive Ranunculus lappaceus 4 1 2 0.02 positive Stellaria angustifolia 3 1 1 0.00 positive Viola caleyana 3 1 2 0.00 positive Lomandra longifolia 0 0 2 0.55 negative

The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles 231 Disturbed Landscapes

 MU78 REGENERATING VEGETATION Area: 781.35 ha A number of native species recolonise cleared or heavily disturbed areas. These can vary from dense small pioneering shrubs to small trees. These patterns are often distinctive on aerial photographs and have been mapped. Many of these patches may contain components of the original native species that occupied the site. The Feature Code table Appendix A can be used to identify the characteristics of the regenerating vegetation. These sites include regenerating Allocasuarina species, regenerating Acacia scrubs and viny scrubs.

 MU79 EXPOSED ROCK Area: 1147.27 ha Exposed rock includes landslip (natural and human induced), rocky outcrops, rock plates and cliff lines.

 MU80 CLEARED AND MODIFIED LAND Area: 22098.39 ha Removal of native vegetation cover for agricultural and urban land uses is widespread across the southern and eastern sections of the special area. The feature code table Appendix A can be used to identify the nature of cleared or modified lands. These include features such as transmission lines, roads, coal mines, pastures and paddocks, recreation areas etc.

 MU81 WATER BODIES Area: 7711.08 ha This comprises the area of water within the various lakes, dams, rivers and other water storages in the Special Area.

232 The Native Vegetation of the Warragamba Special Area. Part B Vegetation Community Profiles

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