'Australian Plants' Vol.10 No.77 December 1978

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Australian
Plants



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EDITORIAL:
The Bottle-Brush Project — So We Failed

With a lot of words and high hopes we launched our Callistemon Study
Group in the first issue of Volume 9, No. 69. What a disappointment this must
have been for some readers, as our organisation could not meet the demand.
We are certainly disappointed with our efforts.

However, we can now promote the project with assurance. Doris Phelps,
Loxton North, South Australia, 5333, has taken over leadership of the group
in a very competent manner. Some of the aboreta for the cultivation of all
species are on the way. A good range of seed is available for those who
wish to grow plants, and we have two very competent botanists working on a
four-year plan to resolve the confusion over the correct names, as mentioned
in this issue. Many plants were given out in N.S.W. Will those who received
them please advise Doris Phelps of their success, or otherwise? As the seed
germinates easily, will members in all States grow on as many plants as
possible, take them into Society meetings and give them to those who will
grow them on and report results.

There will be a need for specimens from mature plants of all species, and
all horticultural cultivars. Please propagate and plant as many as you can.
They grow so easily from seed and are ideal free-flowering garden plants.
This is one project even the most inexperienced beginner can join in.

WHERE ELSE HAVE WE FAILED?

The theme of Volume 9 was ‘the growing of wildflowers is easy in
good garden conditions if you szlect suitable species”. Throughout the
volume suitable species for horticulture were illustrated and described.
Hopefully readers will have tried to cultivate many of these plants, and
undoubtedly with varying success.

Again we will commence the volume with reliable, magnificently flowering
shrubs that you can plant, confident of producing spectacular results in your
garden. Even here, with the genus Eremaea, we have some problem plants,
as mentioned on page 17. Readers, please obtain plants or seed, and try
cultivation under good garden conditions and report results.

The theme of this volume will be “but where have we failed?”

CONTENTS

Page
Growing Callistemon, C. A. Cornford, North Rockhampton, Qld 3
Eremaea, The Genus, R. J. Hubbard 31
Calythropsis, G. J. Keighery — R. J. Hubbard . 18-20
Fenzlia-Myrtella, C. L. Keighery — R. J. Hubbard ................... 21
What Plants Should | Grow There, The Book ‘“Grow What Where’ 22
Callistemon, Cultivars, Australian Cultivar Registration Authority 23
Callistemon From Cuttings, Gordon Cousins 26
The Callistemon Study Project .................... 26
Melaleuca Study Group, Ralph Campbell ... 28
A South Australian Wattle, D. J. E. Whibley ..... 30
Art in Bark, Danny Zam, The Art in Bark Association 34
The Genus Melichrus, T. J. Hawkeswood ......... 36
Allosyncarpia, C. N. Debenham ................ 39

COVER Callistemon speciosus by Brian Crafter

A beautiful bottle-brush flowering plant from Western Australia but widely grown
throughout Australia as described on page 10. Species of Callistemon are more abundant
in the eastern states of Australia where equally magnificent specimens may be found.
Western Australia’s only other species Callistemon phoeniceus is illustrated on page 5.
Western Australian species have been given prominence on this occasion because of
the magnificent photography of Brian Crafter.

AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—No. 77. lIssue of Volume 10, comprising issues 77-84.
International Series Index ISSN 0005-0008. A National publication in 16600 copies.
Published by The Society for Growing Australian Plants. For details see last page.
Available to members or by subscription of $3.00, including postage to_your address.
Send to the Editor, 860 Henry Lawson Drive, Picnic Point, N.S.W., 2213.
Publication date of previous issue, No. 76, was 15th November, 1978.

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Growing Callistemon

by C. A. CORNFORD, North Rockhampton, Queensland

Callistemon, more widely known as Bottlebrush, are easily grown over
a wide range of conditions. They have proved hardy and reliable in Queens-
land and flower profusely.

Rockhampton is just north of the Tropic of Capricorn and 10 km from
the coast. Average annual rainfall is around 900 mm, with the majority of
our rainfall being received in the November to March period. During this
period we can get some very hot and humid weather. It is usually during
these hot, humid periods that we experience loss of some plants which come
from the southern part of Australia, particularly Grevillea.

Winter is usually mild and dry, with frosts being a rare occurrence in
the city area. Frosts are experienced in the districts to the west and south.
Temperatures in the city range from around 5°C in the winter to around
37°C in the summer.

Soils in the city area vary considerably. Hard, stony ridges occur in
the higher parts of the city, while heavy clay soils are widespread in the
lower areas. The heavy clay soils can become very waterlogged during the
wet summer period. There are occasional areas of red clay loam, soils and
brown sandy loam soils. It has been our experience that Callistemon are
very tolerant of soil types and weather conditions. | do not know of any
members who have had much difficulty in growing Callistemon, but there
are a few southern varieties which don’t flower well here.

There are a few Callistemon which grow naturally in the area. The most
common are Callistemon viminalis and Callistemon polandii (red and pink
forms).

Callistemon are not plagued by too many pests and diseases in this
area. The leaf roller caterpillar is a pest in plants when it rolls the new
growth around itself and eats out the growing point. It attacks plants of all
ages, mainly during summer. lts effect is not so noticeable as the plant gets
larger. On young plants it can be controlled fairly easily with Carbaryl or
Diazinon.

We also have trouble with a wood borer which attacks the smaller upper
branches. Unfortunately, as it lives inside the branch, its presence is not
noticed until the branch dies. The only thing that can be done then is to
cut the branch back to below where the borer is and destroy it. As a
matter of interest this borer also attacks some of the Melaleuca species.

Pink wax scale is a minor pest on some varieties. It seems to be mainly
a problem of young plants, but does attack Callistemon citrinus ‘Alba’ fairly
consistently. It can be fairly readily controlled with white oil.

There doesn’t appear to be any problem with soil nutrient deficiencies,
although an iron deficiency will show up in occasional plants following a
prolonged wet period. This is fairly easily corrected by watering with a
solution of iron chelates.

My garden is located on one of the stony ridges about 200 feet above
sea level. | have the following Callistemon varieties growing quite successfully:

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ABOVE: Callistemon citrinus Photography by H. A. Morrison

Until recently this was the most widely grown species of bottle-brush, being widely
known as Red Bottle-brush. The shrub rarely grew above 2 metres in height and
specimens reliably covered themselves with large red flowering spikes. They were easily
grown from seed, could be propagated in the hundreds, and seemed to persevere with
all forms of neglect. Following reasonable rain, they would burst into bloom.

Alas, this did not happen always. Some specimens were better than others. The
colour of the flowers was variable and they fell into disrepute. Reliable nurserymen
propagated from the best plants and marketed their prodgeny under various names, see
Callistemon ‘Reeves Pink’ on page 24. To restore some order and to encourage the
marketing of the best forms, The Australian Cultivar Registration Authority is commencing
to officially register the forms submitted as horticultural cultivars, the first announce-
ment being on page 23

OPPOSITE: Callistemon phoeniceus Photography by Brian Crafter
Western Australia only has two species of Callistemon, one shown opposite and

the other on the front cover. Magnificently flowering plants to two metres high this will
grow to perfection in your garden.

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Callistemon viminalis: This could be classed as a large shrub or small
tree. It carries a profusion of large red brushes in spring, with occasional
flowers during the rest of the year. It has a weeping habit and grows to
5-6 m. It is very easy to grow and is by far the most commonly grown in
this area. There are a number of forms of this having variations in leaf size
and flower colour, although colour is always a variation of red. One variety
| know has a deep plum-coloured flower.

Callistemon ‘Candy Pink’*. The deep pink brushes of this shrub are
produced in profusion three or four times per year. Brushes are about 150
mm in length. The plant grows to about 3 m. In general appearance and
in flower form this one is very similar to Callistemon ‘Guyra Hybrid’, but
seems to be slightly more upright in growth. It is easily grown.

Callistemon ‘Guyra Hybrid': This one grows to about 2-5 m and spreads
about 3 m. Deep pink brushes are produced three or four times per year.
It is easily grown. Tip pruning when young seems to be helpful in forming
a better-shaped plant.

Callistemon ‘Harkness’ (also wrongly known as Callistemon ‘Gawler
Hybrid’): This is fairly slow growing here, but is magnificent when in flower
in spring. It will produce an occasional flower during the rest of the year.
It is easy to grow and quite hardy.

Callistemon ‘Injune’ (Pink Form): There is also a red form of this. The
one | have produces pale pink brushes with yellow stamens. It flowers for
a long period. The pink fades to white as the flower ages. It is quite attractive,
as it carries pink and white brushes simultaneously. Grows to about 3 m
and is easy to grow.

Callistemon salignus ‘Rubra’: As the name suggests, this is generally
regarded as red. However, my plant has pale to medium pink flowers to
about 50 mm in length. Yellow stamens stand out from the main part of
the brush. It is a shrub with open habit. My plant took four years to flower,
but now flowers fairly continuously. It grows to about 3 m, with a spread of
about 3 m.

Callistemon ‘Captain Cook’: This small shrub, to 1.5 metres in height,
is fairly straggly when not in flower, but is magnificent when it flowers in
spring. The deep red brushes, about 100 mm long, are massed over the
whole of the plant. It is a dwarf form of Callistemon viminalis, sometimes
listed as Callistemon compactus.

Callistemon pinifolius: 1 have the prostrate form of this. It has an open
habit and will spread over an area of 2-3 m, with a height of about 0.5 m.
The apple-green flower, about 100 mm in length, is tight and very attractive.
The upright form is fairly sparse and grows to about 2 m, with similar
flower colour.

Callistemon formosus: The bright lemon coloured flowers of this make
it a worthwhile addition to any garden. My plant has been flowering from
an early age and flowers fairly continuously. Although flowering habit tends
to be a bit variable between plants. When fully grown it will reach about
3-4 m and has a fairly upright habit.

Callistemon citrinus ‘Endeavour’: An outstanding shrub when it flowers
in early summer. The large, brilliant red brushes completely cover the plant.
Unfortunately, it is in flower for only a few weeks of the year, although it
does produce a few flowers for a short while after the main flowering period.
The foliage is very dense and a glossy green. It would be suitable for a low,
dense hedge. Height when fully grown is about 2 m. It is easy to grow.

Callistemon ‘Tinaroo’: A small-leaved plant from North Queensland. It is
generally an open spreading shrub, growing to about 2.5 m. The small, tight
red brushes with yellow stamens are about 50-75 mm in length. It grows
readily in all soil types in Rockhampton.

*These are horticultural cultivar names—see page 23
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Callistemon species: This unnamed variety comes from, so far as | know,
the Injune area of Queensland. It has a heavily weeping habit and is a very
attractive shrub with its greyish foliage carried on reddish branches. The
colour of the brush is deep red and is about 100 mm in length. To date,
my plant has not set any seed. It is two years old, about 1.5 metres high
and has a spread of about 2 m. | don’t know what height it will reach, but
from present appearances the spread is likely to exceed the height. A few
cuttings of this have been tried, but without success so far.

Callistemon species: This unnamsd form comes from the Blackdown
Tableland in Central Queensland. It grows to about 1 m in height and has
small prickly leaves. It likes plenty of water. The brush is bright red, very
tight and about 50 mm in length. Its natural habitat is sandstone country,
but it grows well in all the soil types in Rockhampton.

Callistemon species: A form, so far as | know, of Callistemon viminalis
from Blackdown Tableland. It grows to about 3 m, with an upright habit. The
bright red open brushes appear in early summer and are about 75 mm in
length. It adapts well from its natural sandstone habitat.

Callistemon species: | think this is a form of Callistemon viminalis from
the Mackay area of Central Queensland. Growth habit and flower form are
very similar to C. viminalis, but it tends to be more upright. Fully grown it
will reach about 4 m.

Callistemon pachyphyllus: | have two forms of this variety (red and
green). These are native to the coastal areas in the Bundaberg district of
Queensland and south from there along the coast. The flower size is
similar in both types, about 100 mm in length. The red form is a deep red
colour. The green form could best be described as apple-green. Both types
are very straggly shrubs to about 1.5 m. They are not suitable for specimen
plants, but are ideal in shrubberies. They adapt well to this area. There Is
also another form with creamy coloured flowers.

Callistemon sieberi: This is the alpine Callistemon. It is growing slowly,
but is healthy. It is three years old, but has not yet flowered. It is possible
that it may not flower in this area.

Callistemon citrinus ‘Alba’: This is a semi-prostrate form growing to a
height of about 1 m and with similar spread. It is a very attractive shrub
with its pale green leaves and pure white flower. It flowers once per year
in spring. My plant is growing quite well in fairly heavy shade.

Callistemon ‘Berundah Station’: A sparse shrub carrying pale pink brushes
to about 75 mm in length. It flowers off and on throughout the year. Flower
colour fades very quickly to white, but it is a worthwhile addition to a
shrubbery. It grows fairly slowly and will reach about 2.5 m in height, with
a spread of about 2 m.

Callistemon comboynensis: This is a semi-prostrate red-flowered shrub
having a very open form. My plant has not yet flowered, but other plants
in Rockhampton have, on occasion, flowered fairly well. A well-grown plant
can spread over 2-3 m to a height of about 0.3 m.

Callistemon pallidus: A slow-growing shrub which hasn’t shown any sign
of flowering to date. It is developing into a multi-stemmed shrub and should
be quite attractive when it grows a bit bigger. It is supposed to have a
bright yellow flower.

Callistemon ‘Rose Opal’: This dwarf form of Callistemon viminalis flowers
heavily during spring. Flower colour can be best described as deep red.
Flowers are borne in clusters at the end of the branches. It grows to about
1.5 m, with quite dense foliage. In my experience this would be a better
plant to grow than Callistemon ‘Captain Cook’ whenever a small plant Is
required, as it is a more attractive plant when not in flower.

Callistemon ‘Eureka’: This one grows rapidly here. My plant has flowered
heavily over the whole bush. The flower colour is cerise-pink, the brushes
being 100-150 mm in length and 50 mm in diameter. It has grown to about
2 m in just under 12 months. All the other plants that 1 know of around the
area have grown just as well.

Page 7—Vol. 10



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ABOVE: Callistemon ‘Mauve Mist’ Photography by Merv. Hodge

This horticultural cultivar is described on page 23 and has been registered because
of its pleasing colour. The plant probably evolves from Callistemon citrinus as illustrated
on page 4 — refer to caption below that colour plate.

All that the Australian Cultivar Registration Authority can do is to register as
horticultural cultivars plants submitted to it if they fall within simple rules. Eventually, sel-
ection, and market demand will indicate which are the best for each situation. The work of
the Callistemon Study Group as announced in this issue and reports by growers such as
C. A. Cornford will eventually sort out the confusion surrounding the correct naming
of Callistemon plants and their cultivation.

OPPOSITE: Callistemon linearis Photography by H. A. Morrison

Only one of many beautiful bottle-brush plants that may be found in the wild
in Eastern States of Australia. This plant is described on page 10

Why Not A White Bottle-brush?

Thoughtful gardeners will know that the best way to set off various colours in a
garden setting is to carefully place some clear white flowering plants. What we need is
a really good clear dense flowering white bottle-brush. Who knows of one or will develop
one for us? See page 27 for reference to a good green form.

Page 8—Vol. 10



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Other Callistemons
that are known to grow in Rockhampton

Callistemon polandii: Red and pink forms of this grow naturally in this
area. Both are large, fairly dense shrubs to about 4 m in height. The red
form flowers more profusely than the pink form. The red form flowers for
most of the year. The pink form flowers heavily in early summer and carries
a few flowers during the rest of the year.

Callistemon phoeniceus: One of the S.G.A.P. members has this growing in
his garden, and although it has grown well into a shrub about 2 m high it
flowers very poorly, producing only one or two flowers per year. The blue-grey
foliage makes it rather attractive, even though it doesn’t flower well.

Callistemon chisholmii: To date none of the plants | know in the area
have flowered. |t grows quite well, but as the plants | know are still young
it is not fair to criticise it at this stage. It is supposed to be a deep pink in
colour.

Callistemon polandii x C. ‘Tinaroo’: So far as | know this is a natural hy-
brid. It is spectecular when in flower, being covered with a mass of bright red
flowers with yellow stamens. It retains the smallish leaves of Callistemon
‘Tinaroo’, but the flower tends to be of the form of Callistemon polandii. It
is an upright plant growing to about 4 m.

Callistemon citrinus: Three forms of this are known to grow and flower
in Rockhampton—a red form, a white form and one known as Callistemon
citrinus ‘Clusters’ (also red). They are generally fairly upright shrubs to
about 4 m. Brushes are about 75-100 mm in length. Callistemon citrinus
‘Clusters’, as the name implies, produces large clusters of flowers at the
ends of the branches.

Callistemon subulatus: This plant is still young and has not yet flowered,
so | cannot really give any comment on what its future performance may be.

Callistemon phoeniceus: The only plant | know of this variety is not in a
very favourable position, as it is in heavy shade. It has reached a height
of about 1.2 m in four years, but has, as yet, shown no sign of flowering.

Callistemon species: This is a named variety, but unfortunately the name
has been lost somewhere along the way. It is about 1.5 m high and flowered
last year for the first time after four years. The brushes, which are about
75 mm in length, are a deep mauve colour. It is quite spectacular when in
flower in spring.

Callistemon ‘Pindi Pindi’: This one is similar in form to Callistemon
viminalis, but slightly more upright. It grows and flowers well.

Callistemon ‘Ewan River’: A Callistemon from North Queensland which
is growing quite well. It is only a young plant at this stage and has not
flowered.

Callistemon linearis: There are two forms of this, both red. They are
fairly open shrubs, which tend to be a bit straggly. Brushes are fairly large,
to about 100 mm in length. A feature of this variety is the very large seed
capsules which form and which are held on the plant for long periods.

Callistemon shiressii: A young plant which has not yet flowered, bul
which is growing quite well so far. ]

THE PLANT FAMILY MYRTACEAE by THE EDITOR

Callistemon belong to the plant family Myrtaceae. There are many other
plants in this family that are ideal for horticulture. This issue will now
describe species of Eremaea. Calythropsis and Fenzlia. Readers should
refer to the first two issues of Volume No. 9, Nos. 69 and 70. These are
presented in a style to encourage beginners. How these many genera of
plants that form the family and their affinities are described. The guide to
their cltivation, alsn given, will be of special value to readers of this issue.

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EREMAEA — The Genus

by R. J. Hubbard

Eremaea is a W. Australian-confined genus of the family Myrtaceae,
tribe Leptosperminae, sub-tribe Calothamninae. It contains eight recognised
species, all occurring in the southern half of the State, mainly in the South-
western province, with the greatest incidence in the Darling and Irwin
districts. There appear to be several undescribed plants that may eventually
be found to be distinct species.

The genus was named and first described by the botanist John Lindley
in “A Sketch of the Vegetation of the Swan River Colony” which was published
as an appendix to Edward’s Botanical Register Vol. 23 in 1839. Eremaea is
derived from the Greek word eremos, meaning ‘desert’ or ‘wasteland’. It
is a rather inappropriate name, for while the genus occurs mostly in sandy
soils, only one or two species extend to the drier desert or semi-desertic
areas. Most species occur in sand heath, sometimes in fairly moist conditions
(e.g. E. fimbriata). A later synonym is Eremaeopsis (Kuntze, 1903). No common
name has been devised for the genus.

Eremaea is a particularly attractive genus with quite distinctive flowerheads.
t is closely related to Phymatocarpus, Calothamnus, Regelia and Beaufortia,
but its flowerheads make it easily distinguishable from all these genera. The
foliage is often superficially similar in appearance to that of Beaufortia,
Regelia and some Kunzea species, but it differs from the first two gesnera
in that it is alternate. Further differences are to be found in the structure
of the anthers and in the disposition of the ovules.

All species are slender-branched and most become quite bushy in
cultivation. They are low to medium in height and are very suitable for
general positions in the garden, including rockeries. Many have excellent
potential as landscaping plants. They are very effective for massed plantings.
Most would be very suitable for cultivation in containers.

GENERIC CHARACTERISTICS (after Bentham):

Leaves: Alternate, flat and short or narrow and lanceolate, often crowded
on short shoots. Flowers: Solitary or few, = surrounded by scale-like bracts.
Calyx tube: campanulate, fused to ovary at base, free part dilated or erect;
lobes 5, triangular or acuminate. Petals: 5, obovate or orbicular, usually
scarious. Stamens: Indefinite, longer than the petals, = united in bundles
opposite the petals, sometimes almost free; filaments or free parts filiform.
Anthers obovoid, erect on short connective, continuous with filaments;
cells back-to-back, opening outwards in longitudinal slits. Style: Filiform;
stigma small. Ovary: 3-celled, inferior, summit villous, with a short depression
around the style; ovules several in each cell, erect on small lateral placenta.
Fruiting capsule: Enclosed in hardened and enlarged calyx tube. Seed: 1 or
2 in each cell, obovate or cuneate, angular, winged; testa thin.

EREMAEA SPECIES

The following notes are intended to be a simplified digest of growth
habits, flowering and distribution. Full botanic descriptions are contained in
the works cited in the Bibliography. Asterisked common names are ones
suggested by the author of this article.

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<* .

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Eremaea fimbriata (above)

Eremaea ebracteata (opposite) Photography by O. Hockings

The orange-flowered species of Eremaea:
Orange-flowered species of Eremaea are somewhat similar but differ by:

Eremaea acutifolia is best distinguished by the sharp pointed leaves and
wooly bracts.

E. beaufortioides generally has 2-4 clustered flowers.
E. fimbriata has broad leaves and comparatively large flowers to 2 cm across.

E. pauciflora has slender leaves, small flowers to 1cm and small globular
fruits.

E. ebracteata is distinguished by the absence of bracts. and while the flowers
are in heads of 2-3, they are smaller than in E. beaufortioides and are
much more orange-red than any colour forms of that species. As well,
the leaves in E. ebracteata are linear, not ovate.

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Eremaea acutifolia F. Muell. (1860) ‘Rusty Eremaea’

A low, bushy, much-branched shrub, 45-60 cm, spreading 0.9-1.8 metres
or more; the branches stout, rigid, = hirsute, with numerous short leafy
branchlets. Leaves: Crowded, spreading, linear, rigid, pungent, light green,
4-10 mm long, ciliate or hirsute with long spreading hairs or becoming glabrous
with age. Flowers: Up to 1.2cm long, orange, borne terminal on short
branchlets, singly and sessile within the last few leaves, surrounded by
numerous overlapping woolly bracts, from early to mid- or late-spring.
Flowers plentiful. Sand heath, in Irwin and Darling Districts. Very attractive.
Grows best in open position.

Eremaea beaufortioides Benth. (1867) ‘Round-leaved Eremaea’

A dense, erect, much-branched, bushy, shrub in cultivation, often
straggling in the wild, 0.9-1.2 metres or sometimes to 1.8-2.4 metres, spreading
0.6-1.2 metres or sometimes wider, with numerous short slender branchlets;
the young shoots = hirsute, becoming glabrous with age. Leaves: Crowded,
stem-clasping, recurved or spreading, broadly ovate, rigid, acute, 3- or
5-nerved, light to dark green, = 4-6 mm long. Flowers: Comparatively large,
about 2 cm long, orange to orange-yellow or pinkish-red with prominent gold
anthers; borne terminally, usually 2-4 together at the ends of the branchliets
or sometimes with 8-9 flowers forming a rounded head about 4 cm diam.,
during early and mid-spring in the wild, often through to early summer in
cultivation. Profuse flowering. The buds are covered across the top by a
prominent shining white sticky coating which disappears with the opening
of the flowers. Sand heath, usually on damp well-drained slopes, in Irwin
District. A very beautiful species. An excellent landscaping plant.

Eremaea ebracteata F. Muell. (1860) ‘Inland Eremaea’

A low, much-branched, spreading shrub, 30-60 cm, seldom taller, spreading
1.8-2.4 metres or more, with numerous short, slender branchlets; densely
foliaged; the branches and young leaves = hirsute. Leaves: Crowded, heath-
like, linear, obtuse or scarcely acute, == 6-8 mm long, becoming glabrous.
Flowers: Rather large, showy, = 1.5 x 1.5cm, orange-red, borne in sessile
clusters of 2-3, at first terminal, becoming lateral with outgrowth of shoot,
from mid-spring to late summer. Profuse flowering. Sand heath in Irwin
District. A particularly attractive shrub. An excellent border or rockery plant.

Eremaea fimbriata Lindl. (1839) ‘Fringed Eremaea’™

A rigid, compact, much-branched, erect shrub, 0.6-1.2 metres, spreading
60-90 cm or more in the southern part of its distribution, usually quite
slender in drier areas; -~ hirsute with soft spreading hairs, especially on the
younger branchlets, the leaf margins and the calyces. Leaves: Quite variable,
erect or spreading or recurved, closely packed towards ends of branchlets,
broadly elliptical to breoadly oblong-lanceolate, flat or concave, obtuse or
almost acute, recurved at tip, rigid, 3-5-7-nerved, green to grey-green,
+ 6-12mm long, at first hairy underneath, becoming glabrous. Flowers:
+ 2cm diam., orange to bright orangs-red with prominent yellow anthers,
sessile, terminal on numerous short branchlets, borne singly within last few
leaves and surrounded by a considerable number of overlapping bracts,
from late winter to mid-spring. Profuse flowering. Sand heath and woodlands,
often on fringes of swamps, in Darling and Irwin Districts. A very attractive
shrub. An excellent border or rockery plant.

Eremaea fimbriata var brevifolia Benth. (1867)  ‘Short-leaved Eremaea’™

More erect and more slender than the typical form, 0.6-1.2 metres in
height. Leaves: Short, very broad, concave, squarrose, grey-green, 7-nerved.
Flowers: Deep orange, 1.5cm diam. Various localities in Irwin District,
sometimes in association with typical form. A very attractive shrub.

Page 14—Vol. 10



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Eremaea pauciflora (Endl.) Druce (1917) ‘Common Eremaea’™

A bushy, much-branched, erect or spreading, heath-like shrub, 0.6-1.2
metres, spreading 0.6-1.5 metres, = pubescent or hirsute, the branches very
slender, with numerous short leafy branchlets. Leaves: Decussate and
crowded on branchlets, narrow, linear, flat, subterete or triquetrous, obtuse
to = acute, glabrous or hairy, greyish-green to dull green, 4-6 mm long or
rarely to 8-9 mm. Flowers: Similar in form to those of E. fimbriata but much
smaller, usually = 8 mm diam., sometimes to 1cm, bright orange, borne
terminally on the short branchlets, singly and sessile within the last few
leaves, surrounded by overlapping scale-like bracts, during early and mid-
spring in the wild, sometimes through to early summer in cultivation. Sand
heath, scrub heath and woodland, sometimes in gravelly soils, sometimes on
swamp fringss in the Irwin, Darling Avon, Stirling, Eyre and Coolgardie
Districts. A neat atttractive shrub, quite rounded in habit both in the wild
and in cultivation. Few-flowered. Its fruits are quite distinctive for the genus,
both in their globular shape and in their smallness (== 5 x 6 mm). A good
border or rockery shrub. Synonyms: Metrosideros pauciflora Endi. (1837);
E. pilosa Lindl. and E. ericifolia Lindl. (1839).

Eremaea purpurea C. A. Gardn. (1964) ‘Purple Eremaea’*

An erect, much-branched, compact, bushy shrub, 30-60 cm; the branches
thick, erect and densely foliaged, with numerous short slender branchlets.
Not unlike E. ebracteata in general appearance, but differing in its flowers
and the smaller, broader, glabrous leaves. Leaves: Closely packed, narrow,
oblong-linear, concave, glabrous, grey-green, glandular-punctate, 3-6 mm long.
Flowers: Up to 1cm diam. but often smaller, purple, sessile, borne terminally
on short branchlets, singly within the last few leaves, during early summer
and probably longer. The yellow anthers are quite prominent. Sandy soils,
often with Banksia scrub, in the Darling District. A very beautiful shrub.

Eremaea rosea C. A. Gardn. & A. S. George (1963) ‘Pink Eremaea’*

A spreading, several-stemmed shrub, 30-60 cm; the branches hairy when
young, becoming pubescent, then glabrous with age; the branchlets short
and slender. Leaves: Scattered, shortly petiolate, erect to spreading, linear-
lanceolate, concave, keeled, obtuse, 1-3-nerved, 6-9 mm long, glabrous except
on the margins which are at first setaceous. Flowers: = 1.3 x 1cm, deep
pink, sessile, terminal on short branchlets, borne singly or rarely in pairs
within the one series of bracts, within the last few leaves, during early spring
and probably longer. Sand heath in the Darling and Irwin Districts. A
beautiful species.

Eremaea violacea F. Muell. ‘Violet Eremaea’

A shrub of variable form, commonly a quite diffuse shrub seldom
exceeding 50 cm in the wild with a tendency for some branches to be semi-
prostrate and some lower ones completely prostrate; or an erect, much-
branched, fairly open shrub, 60-90 cm in the wild, usually up to 1.5 metres
in cultivation, though sometimes attaining 1.8-2 metres; the usual spread
0.6-1.2 metres. It is typically hairy, though a glabrous form is found closer
to the coast. Leaves: Quite crowded, erect, narrow, linear-elliptical, subterete,
slightly reflexed at tips, usually hairy, sharply acute, sometimes quite soft,
grey-green or sometimes somewhat bluish-green, 12-16 mm long. Flowers:
Largest in genus, = 2-25cm diam., pinkish to deep violet or blue-violet
with prominent go!d anthers; borne usually 2-3 together in sessile ovoid to
globular clusters 3-4 cm diam., terminal on short leafy branchlets, from late
winter to mid-summer, mainly from mid-spring onwards, with the clusters
frequently forming quite large masses across the top of the shrub.

Page 15—Vol. 10



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Photography by G. Chapman

Eremaea violacea

As above Eremaea violacea is the most beautiful of the genus and
one of W.A.’s most attractive native shrubs. Like E. beaufortioides, the buds
are initially covered across the top by a white viscid coating. A good shrub
for massed planting. The horticultural name E. violacea var. major is
sometimes applied to the more erect form. The name appears to have
originated with the late C. A. Gardner, but has no validity. It alludes to the
larger and more brightly coloured flower clusters in this form. It is found on
the sand heath in the Darling and Irwin Districts.

CULTIVATION

All species are very worthy of cultivation and they respond very well
to garden conditions. It is remarkable that their extremely showy flowers have
not yet attracted the attention of commercial propagators.

They are easily cultivated in conditions similar to those for Beaufortia
species, all favouring a sunny position in sandy soils, but quite responsive to
lightly shaded positions. All appreciate peatmoss in the surrounding soil
and they respond very well to fertilizing, but the temptation to over-fertilize
must be resisted, or flowering will give way to over-lush foliage growth as in
the case of Beaufortia. Slow release pellets in the surrounding soil in spring
and autumn are probably the best source of feeding. Pruning is not required
for any species, but it may be carried out without harm.

PROPAGATION

Seed is readily germinated with no special pre-treatment, though young
seedlings of most species require care. The seed is medium sized to quite
large and is easily released from mature fruit after a few days in a warm
position. If left on the plant, the fruits generally shed their seed within 1-2

Page 16—Vol. 10



@@@ 17 @@@



years though it may be carried indefinitely, dependant on climatic conditions.
Seed is best sown during autumn or spring. It should be handled as for
Melaleuca.

All species may be struck from cuttings 5-8cm long, though it is
advisable in most instances to prepare quite a few cuttings as the result
is generally far from 100 percent. E. violacea is the most difficult species
to strike. E. beaufortioides produces good results and most pieces make
roots quite quickly, but with most other species, seed, if available, is the
quicker and more reliable method. Struck cuttings of all species generally
branch out quite low down, but if needed, early pinching back will assist.

Grafting is a further means of propagation which has been carried out
successfully and this may well be a worthwhile means of producing E. violacea.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Bentham G. (1867) Flora Australiensis 3: 180-182.
Druce C. D. (1917) Report Bot. Soc. & Exch. Club Br. Is. 1916 p.622.
Endlicher S. (1837) Enumeratio Plantae Huegel 50.
gargner g fi (&18(364) ’C(X“risb‘ Ifllgéaae Aust. Occid.’ in Journ. Royal Soc., W.A. 47: 61.
ardner C. A. eorge A. S. ( ) ‘Eight New Plants from W.A.’

B g In Journ. Royal Soc.
Lindley J. (1839) Swan River Appendix p.11 in Edwards’s Bot. Regist. 23.
Mueller F. (1860 and 1876) Fragm. Phyt. Aust. 2: 29-30 and 77: 10

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The above notes have been condensed from a work soon to be submitted for publication,
covering the whole of the family Myrtaceae in Western Australla. My warmest thanks to
Mr. R. Royce for allowing me full access to the collections at the Perth Herbarlum and
to Messrs. P. Wilson and R. Altken for considerable help with I|dentlfications. a

THE CULTIVATION OF EREMAEA by THE EDITOR

All is not as simple as described above. Some species of Eremaea have proved
rather difficult to establish in gardens in Eastern Australian temperate areas. There have
also been reports of success, and in fact some species have been quite hardy. How does
one reconcile this conflict?

We do have a lot to learn about the cultivation of Australian flowers evolved over
ages to withstand or survive in spite of the conditions in the wild. | would recommend
the ‘‘good garden conditions’ concept described in Issue 69. An article in our next
issue about the root systems of members of the Myrtaceae could be of special interest.

500 Australian Native Plants

A new 32 page booklet with the above title has been published by the Maroondah
Group of the Society, a very active group in Melbourne. While the recommendations
are for conditions most suited for the cultivation of 500 plants under Melbourne con-
ditions, they are also a valuable guide for all temperate areas.

The book is unique in that the plants are classified by colour bars over the period
of flowering. This is the type of book we need, recommendations from a group of
people who have planted wildflowers in their gardens, observed and recorded their
results.

All the features of interest to the gardener are displayed in the most readily

available form to allow easy reference. Tables tell at a glance the flowering times and
flower colour, the height and width, general growth habit and requirements for moisture
and sunlight. The tables are set out into columns for each month, with the months
when the plant is in flower shown as coloured bars, the colour being the same shade
as the flower. Height and width are given and single letter codes give other cultural
details, including whether a plant is especially suitable to attract native birds to the
arden.
P The text is equally concise and readily followed. The main sections deal with
how to go about planning a garden and preparing the soil, a step by step guide to
planting and detailed information on garden maintenance, including information on
mulching, watering, pruning, fertilising and pest control.

The 32-page book is $3.00 by mail from J. Knight, 23 Hodson Road, Warrandyte,
Vic., 3113.

Growing Australian Plants in Cold Climates

The Canberra Region is preparing an issue of “‘Australian Plants’" devoted to the
theme of Growing Australian plants in cold climates. The problems as'sociated. with
gardening under these conditions will be discussed and some background information on
the definition of a cold climate, the effects of frost, etc. are planned. Experiences with
Australian plants overseas are being gathered and a section on container grown plants
both indoors and outdoors will be included. The growing of plants in pots indoors or
under shelter is a logical extension of a cold climate garden. .

Since the bulk of information for the cold climate issue will be provided by readers,
we are canvassing selected S.G.A.P. members from cold areas inviting their contributions
in the form of articles, lists of proven plants or just a few comments on their cold
climate gardening, indoor and container plant experiences. Good colour slides or prints
of those plants mentioned are needed and will be returned promptly whether used or
not If you have not received a letter of request and would like one, write and ask me,
otherwise please just send your information direct to me, David Mackenzie, at 46 Cockle
Street, O'Connor, A.C.T. 2601.

Page 17—Vol. 10



@@@ 18 @@@



Calyihropsis

by G. J. Keighery, Kings Park Botanic Garden, West Perth

Calythropsis is a monotypic genus of the family Myrtaceae tribe
Chamelaucieae confined to South Western Australia. The genus was erected
by Gardner (1942) and segregated from the closely related genera Calytrix,
Lhotskya, Wehlia and Homalocalyx by the absznce of sepals or calyx lobes,
four not five petals and a strongly four ribbed calyx tube.

This group of g=znera is at pressnt poorly defined and not easily
separable. Many of the characters separating them relate to a loss of
dispersal of the fruit (i.e. lack of sepals — Calythropsis or deciduous sepals
— Homalocalyx), and this by itself is not a cause for generic separation.
Study upon the biology of species of each of the gesn:zra may resolve which
of these genera should be maintained.

A ¢ 5
eV
B [ 5
| EEEPTRRSSS SR Sy |
C o 2
-
D [¢] 5
L )
E ¢ $
G Pt
; DA
//fl/h G o] Sm.m.
. L ]
FIGURE 1. Calythropsis aurea
A: Inflorescence B: Leaf C: Style D: Flower
E: bracteole F: anthers G: Fruit

Page 18—Vol. 10



@@@ 19 @@@



Calythropsis aurea C. A. Gardner (1942): Fig. 1.

An erect, slender branched, bushy shrub, 45cm to 1.5m. Leaves
appressed, crowded, linear-ovate, 4-7 mm long. Flowers 1 cm diameter, golden
yellow, borne on axillary pedicels closely packed in terminal closters or
with the central axis growing through. Bracteoles persistent, enveloping calyx
tube. Calyx tube strongly 4 ribbed, & mm long, slender. Petals 4, acute
deciduous. Stamens numerous, usually 20-40, free, exserted, deciduous.
Anthers versatile, cells parallel, erect, opening in longitudinal slits. Style
long, 8-10 cm long, slender, stigma minute. Ovary 1 celled, ovules 2. Fruit

formed in scarcely enlarged calyx, held on bushes. Seed not known, no
fruits found with mature seed.

This species occurs in the Irwin Botanical District of Western Australia,
between Arrino and Morawa in the south to Ogilvie in the north, generally
on sandy soils, but it has been recorded on one occasion on loam.

Flowering occurs between August and November.

Calythropsis sp. (Fig. 2).

CALYTHROPSIS SP

: Inflorescence
Leaf

T.S. Leaf

: T.S. Calyx tube
Style

: Flower

: bracteoles

OTMMoOOw>

Ae 2

Be

C [ '
H D e |

Er =
/’z‘l}t H o 0-5mm

Page 19—Vol. 10



@@@ 20 @@@



A second (as yet unnamed) species can be noted.

It is presently only known from a single collection lodged in Kings Park
Herbarium from Badgingarra. It differs from C. aurea in having linear
triquetrous sparsely hairy leaves, a smaller inflorescence and sparsely hairy
bracteoles. Further collections of this species are needed.
HORTICULTURAL POTENTIAL

The species is attractive but is easily surpassed by many species of
Calytrix. There is little information available on cultivation of the genus but it
should be extremely similar to many species of Calytrix. Because of the
restricted distribution of the two species, attempts will be made to bring
them into cultivation. O

Calythropsis
Notes by R. J. Hubbard

Calythropsis is the most recently described W. Australian genus in the
family Myrtaceae. The description was published in the Journal of the Royal
Society of W. Australia 27: 188 (1940-1). It contains a single species and is
endemic to the Irwin District of W.A. The generic name indicates a likeness
to the related genus Calytrix — derived from the Greek word opsis: likened
to, a reference to the star-like flowers. It is very close to both Wehlia and
Lhotskya in its foliage and habit of growth and in the initial appearance of
the flowers, but there are a number of very marked differences. It lacks
both sepals and calyx lobes. The calyx tube is strongly 4-ribbed similar to
that of Actinodium and as in that genus, there are only four petals instead
of the five possessed by all the related genera. The bracteoles are similar
to those of some Calytrix species. The ovary is very similar to that of Calytrix
and Lhotskya. An additional difference from Calytrix of course is the absence
of awns.

Calythropsis aurea C. A. Gardn.:

A slender, erect, densely foliaged, glabrous shrub, 60-90 cm, with slender
branches and very short branchlets. Leaves: erect, shortly petiolate, very
closely packed, oblong-lanceolate, acute to mucronate, concave, 1-nerved,
medium green, 5-7 mm long, with ciliate margins. Flowers: yellow, 4-petalled,
star-like, the stamens above 20, sessile, borne in the axils of overlapping
bracts, in showy tight terminal globular clusters 1-2 cm diam., very similar
to those of Wehlia, often three clusters together on very short branchlets,
during early and mid-spring and probably longer. The petals are spreading
and overlapping. The flowers are conspicuous from afar and are borne in
profusion.

It occurs in sandy, clayey and loam soils. A beautiful shrub, but little-
known and probably scarcely cultivated to date, even though its area of
occurrence is a well-travelled one. Since it occurs naturally in both sandy and
heavy soils, it should present little difficulty in most gardens and it would
be a very ornamental addition to a rockery or border, in full sun or light
top shade. Cuitivation and propagation methods as for Calytrix and Lhotskya
should be successful. The fruiting calyces are single-seeded. As in the case
of the related genera, germination will probably be found to be difficult and
propagation from cuttings will most likely produce far more reliable results. []

CORRECTION—Vol. 9, page 65

R. J. Hubbard, the author of the article “The Genus Wehlia”’, has queried a
botanical correction made to his article. From the following it is clear that Richard
Hubbard’s use of the spelling originally of Lhotskya was correct.

“The genus Lhotskya has been published by J. C. Schauer in Linnaea 10: 309
(Feb.-Mar. 1836) with this spelling. It was named in honour of Dr. Johann Lhotsky of
Vienna (born in Lemberg 27. vi. 1800), who was a botanical traveller in New South
Wales and published ““Journey from Sydney to the Australian Alps’” (1835). There can
be no doubt that the original spelling ‘Lhotskya is the correct one, which must be
adhered to, as there is no conservation of another spelling effected in the International
Code of Botanical Nomenclature. Endlicher [in Enum. PI. Huegel: 46 (iv. 1837)]
appears to be the first author who created the subsequently frequently used wrongly spelt
name °‘Lhotzkya’ for this genus of Myrtaceae.””—H. J. Eichler, Herbarium Australiense,
C.S.I.LF.0., Canberra.

Pags. 20—Vol. 10



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Fenzlia—Myrtella

A Myrtaceae of the North West
by G. J. Keighery, Kings Park Botanic Garden, West Perth

Hockings (1977) noted that Fenzlia contains three species, all found in
North Queensland (F. obtusa, F. microphylla and F. retusa). However, the
genus is considerably more complex than this.

Fenzlia obtusa and F. microphylla are res‘ricted to Northern Queensland,
but F. retusa also cccurs in the Victoria River and Darwin Gulf districts of the
Northern Territory (Chippendale 1971).

A fourth species (Fenzlia phebalioides) is restricted to the Kimberley
Region of Western Australia.

Fenzlia phebalioides W. V. Fitzg.

An erect shrub, 1-3 m, with numerous branches, clothed (except older
branches) with a close white tomentum. Leaves petiolate, oblong to narrow
lanceolate, upper dull green, below white tomentose. Flowers on slender
pedicels, 1 cm long. Petals 1 cm diameter, rad, woolly-tomentose. Filaments
as long as petals red, anthers yellow. Style red. Fruit globular, hard one or
two celled surmounted by calyx lobes.

Ecology: The species grows in shallow sandy soils over sandstone.
Flowering occurs at the end of the wet.

Horticultural Potential: Unknown in cultivation, the species has small
attractive red flowers and an aromatic foliage.

Papuan Species: Burret (1941) combined the Papuan genus Myrtella
(erected by Mueller, 1877) with Fenzlia raising the number of species to
seven, and considerably increased the range of the genus. This combination
has only been partially accepted and the author is currently preparing to
revise these genera.

Myrtella A Generic Name Changs by R. J. Hubbard

The genus Myrtella (family Myrtaceae, tribe Myrtoideae) was named by
F. Mueller in 1877. Formerly included in Fenzlia Endl., it now replaces the
latter name which has been rejected as illegitimate (sse A. J. Scott, Kew
Bulletin 33: 299-302, 1978). There arec ninz species, four endeamic to tropical
Australia, four endemic to Papua New Guinea and one common to both areas.
Three E. Australian species have been described under Fenzlia in past
issues of Australian Plants. One specias occurs in W.A., described by W. V.
Fitzgerald in Journal of the Royal Society of W.A. 3: 189 (1918).

Myrtella phebalioides (W. V. Fitzg.) A. J. Scott.

An erect, numerously branched, bushy shrub, 1.2-1.8 metres, the branches
slender, the young growth covered with dense white matted hairs. Leaves:
opposite, petiolate, oblong and narrow oblanceolate, obtuse, shortly tapering
to base, thinly coriaceous, mostly 1.2-2.5 cm long, rarely longer, the margins
flat or slightly revolute. Flowers: small, red, woolly, borne on slender pedicels
1.2-2.5cm long, singly in the upper axils, forming opposite pairs. The style
and stamens are red, the anthers yellow. There are two opposite pointed
bracteoles beneath the calyx. Flowering March/April to August. The flowers
are succeeded by dark purple, hard, glabrous, giobuler fruits or drupes, undesr
4 mm diam., usually single-seeded.

It occurs in sandy soils on the slopes of Tabletop Mountain in the Hann
District in the N.W. Kimberley. It does not appear to have been recorded
from elsewhere, though this may merely be due to difficulty of accessibility
to areas of occurrence. It is an ornamental shrub which should be suitable
for protected positions in tropical and sub-tropical gardens and also worth
a trial in warm temperate gardens. It is not yet known in cultivation. The
specific epithet, phebalioides, refers to a resemblance of the small flowers
to those of Phebalium, a genus in the family Rutaceae (the Boronia group).

Page 21—Vol. 10



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What plants should | grow there?

How often is a gardener faced with this problem. We publish many
articles in each issue, confronting you with hundreds of species and many
beautiful colour plates, but it gets back to ‘“what species will | plant?”

The Australian Plant Study Group has put a lot of study into this problem,
consulted the experts, the professionals and canvassed wildflower growers,
and has finally produced a book, “Grow What Where”, or “Australian Native
Plants for Problem Areas and Special Uses”. Thousands of species and
forms of Australian plants are listed under 64 different headings. They
have done this so well that it is proposed that these 64 headings with
numbers be accepted as a standard reference in future. The group has
worked in Melbourne and it could reasonably be considered that their lists
apply to Southern Australian. Let us prepare similar lists for all arsas under
the following heading:
1. Ground cover.

Coastal: Second Line. 41. Shade trees.

Prostrate to 30 cm. 22. Lime tolerant. 42. Deciduous trees.
2. Rockery. 23. Frost resistant. 43. Weeping.
3. Tufties. 23(a) Usually frost 44, Silver foliage.
4. Fence screening. resistant. 45. Variegated foliage.
5. Hedge plants. 24. Frost tender. 46. Darkly contrasting
6. Windbreaks. 25. Quick growing. foliage.
7. Tall skinnies. 26. Long flowering. 47. Interesting foliage.
8. Ground wet in win- 27. Eucalypt Flower 48. Interesting buds or
ter — dries out in Calendar. fruits.
summer. 28. Acacia Flower 49. Interesting trunks.
9. Heavy and clay Calendar. 50. Berries.
soils: 29. Grevillea Flower 51. Perfumed flowers.
(a) Prostrate 1 m. Calendar. 52. Aromatic foliage.
(b) 1 m to 2 m. 30. Summer flowering. 53. Native conifers.
(c) Over 2 m. 31. Autumn flowering. 54. Hardy ferns.
10. Shady moist. 32. Winter flowering. 55. Lawn alternatives.
11. Shady dry. 33. Cut flowers. 56. Indoor plants.
12. Permanently boggy. 34. Tub plants. 57. Firewood trees.
13. Permanently wet 35. Hanging baskets. 58. Eucalypts which
and pond. 36. Cascading plants. may drop large
14. Water absorbing. 37. Climbers. branches.
15. Very sandy. 38. Pricklies. 59. Salt soil tolerant.
16. Very dry. 39. Bird attracting: 60. Snow tolerant.
17. Soil binding. (a) Honeyeaters. 61. Smog tolerant
18. Sand binding. (b) Insect eaters. 62. Gully erosion
19. Layering. (c) Seed eaters. control.
20. Suckering. 40. Specimen trees 63. Fodder.
21. Coastal:Front Line. and shrubs. 64. Koala food trees.

“GROW WHAT WHERE''—The book above available from
Lawson Drive, Picnic Point, N.S.W., 2213, for $5.00, including postage. Limited quantities.

the Editor, 860 Henry

Australian Orchid Seed . . .
Seed of 21 species of epiphytic orchid and 29 species of terrestrial orchid species
are available from Mr. A

. Lawler,

A.O.F. Seed Bank, Department of Biochemistry,

the University of Sydney, 2006. This seed is one of the services provided by the
Australian Orchid Foundation, a group of very dedicated people devoted to the promotion
of Australia’s native orchids. There will be more news of this group in later issues,
but Mr. Lawler will pass on any enquiries. The first item to an order will cost $1 Aust.,
and each additional packet will be 50 cents, all post free.

The cultivation of orchids from seed is not easy, as reference to past issues will
confirm. It is a job requiring some skill and experience, but advice is available for trier.

Page 22—Vol. 10



@@@ 23 @@@



Callistemon Cultivars

Latest releases from the Australian Cultivar Registration Authority

A cultivar is a plant that shows outstanding horticultural potential whether it is
the development of a very good form of a true species (or even the growing on of an
exceptionally good form found by accident and maintained for our enjoyment), or is a
hybrid of different species.

Applications for the registration of cultivars are invited, addressed to the Secretary,
Australian Cultivar Registration Authority National Botanic Gardens, Canberra, A.C.T. It
is not essential for applications to contain all detail submitted here; supply as much
of the information as you can and trained officers will assist in the final submission.

The first cultivar listed has become famous for its splendour and has been described
in this journal in 1966. There is a host of Callistemon cultivars available commercially,
the following being the first to be properly registered.

CALLISTEMON ‘HARKNESS’

Syn: Callistemon ‘Harkness Hybrid, Callistemon ‘Gzwler’ and Callistemon
‘Gawler Hybrid’.

Origin:

Confusion has surrounded the origin of Callistemon ‘Harkness’ for many
years. According to the person after whom it was named, Mr. G. L. J.
Harkness of Gawler, S.A. “ . it was obtained in 1937 and was purchased
from Harris Scarfes Ltd.,, who were supplied by Kemp’s Nurseries. It was
received by me with approximately 25 other trees and shrubs. . . . There
were two Callistemons in this order, Callistemon lanceolatus (now Callistemon
citrinus) and Callistemon coccineus (now Callistemon macropunctatus). Callis-
temon citrinus turned out to be the hybrid which is still growing on my
property. The first plants from Callistemon ‘Harkness’ were propagated by
me in 1948. It has never set seed, and propagating was done from cuttings.”
(The above passage is taken from the S.A. S.G.A.P. Journal, p. 3, Jan. 1970).

Description:

The leaves are entire and up to 130 mm long by up to 12 mm wide.

The flowers are produced in long dense ‘“bottlebrush” clusters. These
clusters are produced in bunches of up to 11 “brushes”. Individual *“bottle-
brushes” are red and up to 150 mm long by about 55 mm wide. The stamens
are the colourful parts of the flower.
Diagnosis:

This cultivar is different from other Callistemon cultivars in its long,
dense and clustered red inflorescences.

Colour Coding: R.H.S. Colour Chart, 1966 edition.
Stamens: red 52A.

Reference Specimen:
Accession number: National Botanic Gardens 28. Cultivar received by
the Authority: 1st May 1974. Applicant: Mr. G. L. J. Harkness.

Previously mentioned:
“Australian Plants”, Vol. 3, p. 349, Sept. 1966.

CALLISTEMON ‘MAUVE MIST’
Origin:

Callistemon ‘Mauve Mist’ is a seedling selected from about 300 which
were raisad from seed collected from Callistemon ‘Reeve’s Pink'.

Description:

This cultivar forms a dense shrub to a height of about 3 m, with an
equal or slightly wider spread.

The leaves are entire and about 50 mm long by about 8 mm wide. The
new tip growth is pink and densely covered with silky hairs.

The flowers are produced in dense ‘“bottlebrush” clusters. The clusters
are often produced in bunches. Individual “bottlebrushes” are pinkish-mauve
and about 70 mm long by about 50 mm wide. The stamens are the colourful
parts of the flower. It is reported that this cultivar will flower as late as
Christmas. See page 8 for a colour plate.

Page 23—Vol. 10



@@@ 24 @@@



Diagnosis:

This cultivar is different from Callistemon ‘Reeve’s Pink’ in flower colour.
Callistemon ‘Mauve Mist’ has pinkish-mauve ‘“brushes”, compared with pink
for Callistemon ‘Reeve’s Pink'.

Colour Coding: R.H.S. Colour Chart, 1966 edition.
Just released stamens: red-purple 71B.
Fuily released stamens: between 67B and C.

Reference Specimen:
Accession number: National Botanic Gardens 29. Cultivar received by
the Authority: 21st October 1967. Applicant: Mr. G. Wilson.

Previously mentioned:
“Austraflora” nursery catalogue 1970/71.
“Landscaping with Australian Shrubs”, G. Wilson, 1975.
“Your Garden”, March 1977.

CALLISTEMON °‘REEVE’S PINK’
Origin:

Callistemon ‘Reeve’s Pink’ is a chance seedling variant of uncertain
parentage. However, there are affinities with Callistemon citrinus. It originated

at the nursery of Mr. Reeve, Snr., at Cheltenham, Victoria, and was discovered
there by Mr. G. Wilson in 1957/58.

Description:

The cultivar forms a dense shrub to a height of about 3 m, with an
equal or slightly wider spread.

The leaves are entire and about 45 mm long by about 8 mm wide. The
new tip growth is pink and densely covered with silky hairs.

The flowers are produced in dense ‘bottlebrush” clusters, which are
themselves often grouped into bunches. Individual “bottlebrushes” are pink
and about 70 mm long and about 40 mm wide. The stamens are the colourful
parts of the flower.

Diagnosis:

This cultivar is different from its possible parent in its slightly more
spreading habit and pink flower colour. The usual colour of Callistemon
citrinus is red or lemon.

Colour Coding: R.H.S. Colour Chart, 1966 edition.

Stamens: red-purple 62A.

Reference Specimen:
Accession number: National Botanic Gardens 41. Cultivar first reczived
by the Authority: 21st November 1967. Applicant: Mr. G. Wilson.

Previously mentioned:
“Austraflora” nursery catalogue 1970/71.
“Landscaping with Australian Plants”, G. Wilson, 1975.
“Your Garden”, March 1977.

CALLISTEMON ‘WOLLUMBIN’
Origin:

Callistemon “Wollumbin’ is said to be a seedling variant of Callistemon
viminalis. It was raised by Mr. Davidson of Wollumbin, N.S.W.
Description:

The three-year-old shrub is about 2 m high with a spread of about 1 m.

The leaves are up to 60 mm long by up to 9 mm wide.

The flowers are produced in dense ‘bottlebrush” clusters. Individual
“bottlebrushes” are salmon coloured and about 35 mm long by about 40 mm
wide. The stamens are the colourful parts of the flower. It is stated that this
cultivar has a short flowering period of 7-12 days. However, it flowers in
spring and again at the end of January.

Page 24—Vol. 10



@@@ 25 @@@



Diagnosis:
This cultivar is different from other known forms of Callistemon viminalis
in its salmon coloured flowers instead of the usual red.

Colour Coding: R.H.S. Colour Chart, 1966 edition.
Stamens: between red 40D and 41C.

Reference Specimen:
Acczssion number: National Botanic Gardens 151. Cultivar first received
by the Authority: 1st Fzb. 1978. Applicant: Mr. D. Davidson.

CALLISTEMON ‘BURGUNDY’
Origin:

Callistemon ‘Burgundy’ is a seedling selected from about 300 which
were raised from seed collected from Callistemon ‘Reeve’s Pink’.

Description:

This cultivar forms a dense shrub to a height of about 3 m, with an
equal or slightly wider spread.

The leaves are entire and about 45 mm long by about 8 mm wide.
The new tip growth is pink and densczly covered with silky hairs.

The flowers are produced in dense “bottlebrush” clusters. These clusters
are often produced in bunches. Individual “bottlebrushes” are very dark red
fading to deep purple-violet with age. They are about 90 mm long by about
45 mm wide. The stamens are the colourful parts of the flower.
Diagnosis:

This cultivar is different from Callistemon ‘Reeve’s Pink’ and Callistemon
‘Mauve Mist’ in flower colour. Callistemon ‘Burgundy’ has very dark red
“brushes”, compared with pink for Callistemon ‘Reeve’s Pink’ and pinkish-
mauve for Callistemon ‘Mauve Mist’.

Colour Coding: R.H.S. Colour Chart, 1966 edition.
Freshly picked flowers not available for colour coding.
Fully released stamens: red-purple 71A.

Reference Specimen:
Accession number: National Botanic Gardens 26. Cultivar first received
by the Authority: 21st October 1967. Applicant: Mr. G. Wilson.

Previously mentioned:
“Austraflora” nursery catalogue 1970/71.
“Landscaping with Australian Shrubs”, G. Wilson, 1975.
“Your Garden”, March 1977.

CORRECTION TO DESCRIPTION
GREVILLEA ‘PINK SURPRISE’

The Australian Cultivar Registration Authority has been notified of an
error in the description of this cultivar, in Vol. 9, No. 73, p. 203.

The Authority wishes to point out that descriptions are prepared from
information supplied on the application form and from examination of
specimens. Material sent for publication is correct to the best of our knowledge
at the time it is submitted.

Following publication the Authority was notified of an error in ths dascrip-
tion concerning the cultivar’s origin. In the description published the origin
is given as Mr. R. Bailey’s garden at Indooroopilly, when in fact the cultivar
originated in Mrs. W. Bristow’s garden at Sherwood, Queensland, and was
subsequently given to Mr. Bailey.

The Authority apologises for any inconvenience which may have occurred.
—David Young, Registrar.

Page 25—Vol. 10



@@@ 26 @@@



Callistemons from Cuttings

by GORDON COUSINS

In my hands, regular success in growing callistemons from cuttings is
entirely dependent upon selection of cutting material at the right stage of
growth.

The state of the terminal and axillary leaf ends is the key factor. The leaf
buds should be swelling — not dormant, nor with young leaves showing. The
cuttings used are 8 to 10 cm long and 2 mm thick — as thick as a match.
With such cuttings, probably any reasonable technique would give good
results.

My method has given success in about 90% of cuttings of Callistemon
‘Harkness’ and an estimated 150 plants have been grown over the years.
Other species such as C. polandii, C. subulatus, C. gilesii and C. salignus pink
form, have succeeded but the smaller numbers preclude percentage estimates.

Summary of my procedures.

(1) Leaves stripped from bottom half of cutting. 3 or 4 leaves left on top half
and shortened by half.

(2) Cuttings pushed into wet vermiculite in 5 cm propagation pots — 5 or
6 to a pot.

(3) Pots placed in an ice cream container with 2 or 3 cm of wet sawdust in
the bottom and enclosed in a polythene bag sealed off with a clothes
peg.

(4) Container is placed in a warm position in semi shade.

(5) Container is opened every 2 or 3 weeks. When roots appear, the pro-
pagation pot is emptied under water. Unrooted cuttings are reset in
vermiculite. The bag is resealed after wetting contents with a fine spray
of hose.

(6) Rooted cuttings are planted in a sandy loam taking care to plant deeply
(2 cm).

(8) Young cuttings are protected from hot dry winds in a shade house for
several days, until established.

The Callistemon Study Project

Trevor Whiffin of the Department of Botany, Latrobe University, Bundoora,
Victoria, 3083, will be conducting a scientific study of the genus Callistemon
in association with Peter Lumley, Senior Botanist, Royal Botanic Gardens,
Melbourne, Victoria. The objective to define the species under their correct
botanical names and the various horticultural forms and cultivars.

The study is essentially a scientific one, but will be dependent on
people throughout Australia as indicated below. The study will be in three
stages.

Firstly there will be a preliminary study of the known natural species. It
is hoped that this will indicate the approximate relationships and groupings
the species and also serve to indicate the characters which will be important
in the longer-term study. The approach is to use the morphology (form)
and chemistry (leaf volatile oils) of the plants. The second phase will be to
study the variation within all species. Specimens will be collected from
natural populations throughout the range of various species. This is a longer-
term study and will take perhaps three or four years. Trevor Whiffin will be
visiting Western Australia next August and will be spending time in Queens-
land for much of the second half of next year. He will, over the next few
years, visit all areas where Callistemon occurs naturally. Collections will also
be introduced into cultivation, via cuttings, at the Royal Botanic Gardens,
Melbourne, by Peter Lumley throughout this study.

Finally the study will be of all cultivated forms and varieties, including
hybrids, with attempts to relate these back to their natural species.

Page 26—Vol. 10



@@@ 27 @@@



Readers are invited to co-operate with Trevor Whiffin, who advises:

“l would much appreciate any help people can give me during the
first and final stages. For the methods that | use, ! need approximately 100
to 200 grams of fresh leaf material, and also dried pressed specimens,
preferably of both flowering and fruiting material. Normally | would collect
these myself, with the help of the member concerned, so just write to me
first. For the preliminary study | would like to obtain material of all natural
species as soon as possible. Thus | will need to obtain much of this from
botanical gardens and private collections, as | am unable to visit all areas.
| would want to collect from three to five separate plants of each species
(not those from the same source). Any help that you can give me to obtain
this material would be much appreciated. | have started my collections visiting
southern Queensland and northern New South Wales during October, and
Canberra in November. For this preliminary study | got my material from
botanic gardens or private persons with large collections; | would collect from
natural populations or small private gardens only to fill in the gaps.

“If readers know of any natural stands of Callistemon, particularly the
more unusual or less common forms, or outside of the normal distribution,
then let me have details of the locality. Again, if the form is very unusual,
a dried, pressed specimen would be very helpful.

“In certain circumstances | would require more material of a particular
plant. In this case | would correspond directly with the member.

“Your help in the final stage will be even more important. | would want
to obtain material from all cultivated varieties, forms and hybrids. These will,
of course, be entirely in private collections and botanical gardens. | probably
will not start collecting these for a couple of years, but at that time your
help will be much appreciated. However, if members have any unusual hybrids
or cultivars growing, then send me a dried, pressed specimen of these.

Preparation of Dried, Pressed Specimens

“There are several ways of preparing a dried, pressed specimen. If the
person has no botanical equipment, then the following method is probably
simplest.

“Select a branch with flowering spike and leaves, approximately 15"
long; if possible, select also a second branch with fruit. Place these between
newspaper (about 10 sheets either side of specimen) and press flat for a
period of days with a heavy weight, such as a pile of large books, etc.
Change the newspaper each day, although the newspaper can be re-used
after allowing to air. As far as possible allow air circulation near the specimen
when being pressed. When the specimen is more or less dry (up to one
week) pack between newspaper (much as before) and sheets of cardboard for
mailing. The following information should be sent with the specimen: height of
plant; colour of spike; if it is a cultivated plant, then any details available on
its origin; if a natural stand, then locality information; name and address of
collector. How Everyone Can Help.”

Grow and Propagate Callistemon

Callistemon are beautiful, easily grown shrubs that will grace your garden.
Grow as many species and forms as you can get over the next few years and
see which are the very best. We shall propagate only from the best, so
advise Doris Phelps of your experiences and recommendations. The need
for selection and vegetative propagation is illustrated by the following report
in the Callistemon Study Group newsletter by Aileen Black, Valentine, N.S.W.,
2280:

“l have a number of species of Callistemon growing successfully in the
clay and conglomerate area of Lake Macquarie. Getting the better forms
sorted out is certainly required, as shown by my attempts to get a good
Callistemon pinifolius, green form. My first plant from a nurseryman turned

Page 27—Vol. 10



@@@ 28 @@@



out to be a very poor pink. My second plant from the Forestry Commission
was another poor quality pink. The third plant from a native plant nursery
was at least green, but with such a poor open tatty head | scrapped it after
the second year. Finally | decided to persevere with cuttings from a friend’s
plant. | now have a beautiful plant which has thick, closely packed, large
apple-green heads which are a real joy. There is a natural area on the far
side of Lake Macquarie where my friend’s plant came from. Unfortunately,
this area is fast being built on and | fear it will not be long before it disappears
completely.”

These are the plants the Callistemon Study Group will propagate from—
only the best. Special equipment or skills are not needed to propagate
Callistemon. Get some seed—you will get hundreds of plants in a few
months. Refer to Australian Plants, Vol. 9, on how to do this. Select the very
best forms and grow from cuttings.

The article by G. S. Cousins, in this issue, is taken from the Callistemon
Study Group newsletter. It describes how you can grow beautiful plants from
cuttings taken from the most beautiful shrubs without the need for special
equipment or skills. Try it!

Melaleuca Study Group

Leader: Ralph Campbell, 58 Lee-Steere Cres., Kambah, ACT, 2602

This group was established at the Sydney Region meeting in September,
1976, when 90 tubes of seedlings were distributed to members. Over the next
year 675 packets of seeds were sent out to members who have joined the
group and no doubt by now over 1000 packets have been sent by request.
As at August, 1978, 305 reports on the sowing of seed have been received.

Approximately 60% of the members reported using the ‘“Bog” method,,
about 15% use capillary beds and the remainder use a variety of methods
including the dunk method (i.e. hold pots in a container of water until the
water comes up through the medium to make the surface quite moist), over-
head sprays, egg cartons, etc. These methods are well described in the
No. 69 issue and following issues.

Over 90% of potting mixes include organic metter such as peat moss,
compost or leaf litter and 20% of these also include fertiliser such as
“osmocote” and blood and bone.

The major problems arisz from gstiing the ssedlings to grow vigorously
before and after {ransplanting. Care should be taken that seedlings, when
potted on, are not planted lower in the potting soil than they were in the
propagating pot.

This problem and many others are being examined by the study group
members. No special competence is required and simple directions yield good
results.

The August, 1978 newsletter for this group describes thirty species alpha-
betically A-l and gives summary of the hundreds of reports received on their
propagation. Future newsletters will continue this. Seed of 64 species is listed
as being available to members. All this for $1.00 per year sent to the study
group leader above.

Future work will include the selection of the best forms of each species
and propagation will be confined to these. The newsletter lists 16 species
for which cutting material is available for exchangzs. Experience to date indi-
cates that some species are not easy from cuttings but that the simple
methods described in past issues of Australian Plants will yield good results.

Good work by Ralph and his friends .Why not join them?

See page 33 for details of other Study Groups
Page 28—Vol. 10



@@@ 29 @@@



Photography by Erica Crane

Hibbertia lineata

Hibbertia are beautiful small shrubs ideal for the garden as ground cover or specimen
plants. Why not join the Hibbertia Study Group by writing to Bernard Dixon, 82
Gilbertson Road, Kardinya, W.A., 6163,

Page 29—Vol. 10



@@@ 30 @@@



A South Australian Wattle

A Name Change, by D. J. E. WHIBLEY,
State Herbarium, Botanic Garden, Adelaide

Acacia leiophylla Benth., London J. Bot. 1:351 (1842); description and illus-
trations by B. R. Maslin and D. J. E. WHIBLEY, in Nuytsia, Vol. 2, No. 3
(1977).

Syn. Acacia retinodes Schltdl. var. oraria, J. M. Black ex C. M. Eardley in
J. M. Black, Flor. S. Aust., Ed. 2, 4:945 (1957).

Bentham originally described Acacia leiophylla in 1842, but when he
wrote the Flora Australiensis (1864) he placed A. leiophylla as a synonym
under A. saligna. Since this time there has been considerable confusion
concerning the application of the name A. leiophylla, and subsequent authors
have tended to accept Bentham’s later view.

After examination of material at Kew, B. R. Maslin (Western Australian
Herbarium) found that the type of Acacia leiophylla belonged to the same
taxon that was described as Acacia retinodes Schlitdl. var. oraria J. M. Black
ex C. M. Eardley. As studies of typical A. retinodes and of Miss Eardley’s
variety suggest that the differences are greater than she recognised, it has
been decided to raise the variety once more to species rank under the earlier
name of A. leiophylla.

HABIT: Variable, either dense, compact and single stemmed, or spreading
and openly branched shrub, 1-2.5m high, with a number of stems arising
from near ground level; branchlets reddish, glabrous, terete, slightly angular
and flexuose towards the apex.

PHYLLODES: Flat, pale green, lanceolate, falcate, 7-17 cm long, 9-25 mm
broad, usually broadest point above the middle of phyllode; mid-nerve
prominent, lateral veins rather obscure; a small gland on the upper margin
4-15 mm from the base; petiole 5-15mm long, twisted and wrinkled.

INFLORESCENCE: Heads globular, in axillary racemes, shorter than the
phyllodes, or in spreading panicles at the ends of branchlets; raceme axis
glabrous, slightly flexuose, with short peduncles 4-5mm long; flower heads
bright yellow, 25-30 flowered, flowers 5-merous.

PODS: Flattish, dark brown, linear, straight, 9-12 cm long, 5-6 mm broad,
surface undulate, raised over the seeds, margins light brown, slightly con-
stricted between the seeds; seeds longitudinal or slightly oblique; funicle
encircling the seed in a double fold, gradually expanding into a pale yellowish
curved aril.

DISTRIBUTION: Southern Eyre Peninsula, south-western tip of Yorke
Peninsula, Kangaroo Island, along the Coorong to the south-east corner near
Mt. Gambier. Growing in or near coastal regions in open scrub, mallee-heath
vegetation associated with Eucalyptus diversifolia, Acacia pycnantha and
Acacia longifolia var. sophorae, on calcareous sand or shallow, porous red
loam.

Acacia leiophylla has so far only been found in South Australia, but as
it occurs very close to the Victorian border it is probable that it could be
found in the south-west corner of Victoria.

FLOWERING TIME: August-November.

CULTIVATION: A very handsome shrub, profusely flowering in spring,
does well in sandy, calcareous soils near the coast and adaptable to a
variety of soils further inland in the medium rainfall areas. Fast growth rate.

RELATED SPECIES: The following species are closely related and are
briefly described, giving the main characters in which they differ.

Page 30—Vol. 10



@@@ 31 @@@



FIG.

FIG.
FIG.
FIG.

Acacia

funicle.

Acacia

funicle.

Acacia

funicle.

Acacia

funicle.
—Illustrations by L. Dutkiewicz,

leiophylla—A.
pycnantha—A.

retinodes—A.

rubida—A. Flowering twig; B.

i

=

T
.

£,

Flowering twig;

Flowering twig;

B. Flower head; C. Pod; D.
B. Flower head; C. Pod; D.

Flowering twig; B. Flower head; C. Pod; D.

State Herbarium,

Flower head; C. Pod; D.

Botanic Garden,

Seed and
Seed and
Seed and
Seed and

Adelaide.

Page 31—Vol. 10



@@@ 32 @@@



1. Acacia pycnantha Benth.

A glabrous, medium-sized shrub or small tree, 4-8 m high. Phyllodes
flat, coriaceous, oblanceolate, falcate, 6-20 cm long, 6-50 mm broad, usually
broadest above the centre; mid-nerve prominent and numerous conspicuous
fine curved lateral nerves. Inflorescence of axillary racemes or panicles
towards the end of branchlets. Heads large, 50-60 flowered, on short, stout
peduncles. Pods flattish, brown, with longitudinal seeds, funicle short, thick-
ened into a small, fleshy aril.

FLOWERING TIME: August-October.

DISTIBUTION: This species occurs in southern Eyre Peninsula, Yorke
Peninsula, Flinders Range, Mt. Lofty Range, South East and Kangaroo Island.
Also found in Vic., N.S.W. and A.C.T.

2. Acacia retinodes Schitdl.

A tall, glabrous shrub or small tree up to 8 m high, with a bluish-green,
conical, or rounded crown. Branchlets reddish-brown, acutely angled, becoming
smooth, greyish and almost terete. Phyllodes flat, thin, dull bluish-green,
linear-lanceolate, oblanceolate, straight or slightly curved, with a small
recurved point, 8-20 cm long, 3-15mm broad, with a prominent mid-nerve
and numerous fine lateral nerves. Inflorescence of loose axillary racemes or
panicles towards the ends of the branches. Heads small, ca. 40 flowered
on thin peduncles. Pods linear, brown, 3-14cm long, 6-8 mm broad. Seeds
longitudinal, funicle long, reddish-brown, encircling the seeds in a double
fold, thickening into a whitish aril.

FLOWERING TIME: At irregular periods throughout the year, but mainly
summer months.

DISTRIBUTION: Southern Lofty Range, Murray region around Monarto,
Kangaroo Island and a local occurrence near Port Lincoln.

3. Acacia rubida A.Cunn.

A bushy shrub or small tree, 2-10m high, branches reddish-brown,
sharply angled. Phyllodes flat, coriaceous, lanceolate, straight or falcate,
5-15cm long, 8-15 mm broad, acuminate or acute, margins and both surfaces
usually becoming tinged with red upon drying; mid-nerve prominent, lateral
nerves obscure. Bipinnate foliage sometimes present at the base and on
flowering branches. Inflorescence a raceme, shorter than phyllodes. Heads
small, 10-15 flowered. Pods flattish, straight or slightly curved, to 10cm
long, ca. 5mm broad; seeds longitudinal, funicle encircling the seeds in a
double fold and gradually tapering into an oblique aril.

FLOWERING TIME: July-October.

DISTRIBUTION: Vic., Qld, N.SW. and A.C.T. Has been mentioned by
J. H. Willis in the Handbook to Plants in Victoria, Vol. ii (1972), as occurring
in S. Aust. It was thought in the past that it probably occurred in the lower
South East, but no Herbarium specimens collected in South Australia match
A. rubida. | feel sure that it was confused with material that has now been
described under A. leiophylla for South Australia.

ABOUT HAY FEVER

Many people are prejudiced against WATTLES because they think they are a major
cause of hay fever.

Here is the opinion of the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories:— 1st October, 1974.

GRASSES, in general, are the most important hay fever plants. WATTLE is
frequently suspected and does sometimes cause nasal irritation (as do many other
plants such as COSMOS, DAHLIAS, etc.), but it is usually found that INCONSPICUQUS
WEEDS or GRASSES are the real culprits.”

WHAT? No Holes?

As directed by the Regional Society officers in each state copies of Australian Plants
will only be supplied with holes already drilled to NSW members. However in the hope
that you can manage to drill your own holes, D-Ring binders are still available at $3.00
plus 60 ¢ postage from The Editor.

Page 32—Vol. 10



@@@ 33 @@@



Acacia rubida Photography by Peter Althofer

Reprinted from the book ‘“‘Acacias of New South Wales”, by Inez Armitage. A
book produced in clear, simple language of the wattles of NSW All species are
illustrated by line drawings that will enable you to identify the wattles growing naturally
anywhere in N.S.W. lllustrated further by 54 colour plates, this 200-page book will be
of exceptional value at the introductory price of $7.50, plus 50c postage.

THE ACACIA STUDY GROUP

The new leader for the Acacia Study Group is Mrs. Marion Simmons, P.0. Box
1148, Legana, Tasmania. Marion has been studying Acacia for many years and we
are indeed fortunate to secure the services of such a competent specialist. What Is a
Study Group?

Study groups comprise a number of members, usually without any prior experience,
who undertake to grow plants in their gardens and report results. They usually operate
by mail through a leader, who supplies seed, advice and, in some cases, plants. The
objective is to grow and develop better forms of species, or to determine the best growing
conditions of species already available.

STUDY GROUPS

ACACIA—Leader: Mrs. M. Simmons, P.O. Box 1148, Legana, Tasmania, 7251.
BANKSIA—Leader: Mr. Trevor Blake, 12 Little John Court, Vermont 3133, Victoria.
BEAUFORTIA—Leader: Mr. Brian Walters, 19 Hurley Street, Toongabbie 2146, N.S.W.
CALLISTEMON—Leader: Mrs. D. Phelps, Loxton North, S.A., 5333.
CALYTRIX—Leader: Mrs. Joan Doney, 64 Cary Street, Wyomlng 2251, N.S.W.
DRYANDRA—Leader: Mr. Tony Cavanagh 2 Wilkinson Street, Ocean Grove 3226,
EREMAEA—Leader: Mrs. Lyn Parry, “Floralands’, Karlong 2251, N.S.W.
EREMOPHILA—Leader: Mr. G. Needham, 2 Stuckey Ave., Underdale 5032, S.A.
EUCALYPTUS—Leader: Mr. L. J. Daniels, Research Station, P.O. Box 201, Biloela 4715,
FERN—DLeader: Mrs. Gerry Parker, 7 Blackbutts Road, French’s Forest 2086.
GREVILLEA—Leader: Mr. M. Hodge, 25 Barford Street, Moorooka, Qld., 4105.
HAKEA—Leader: Dr. M. M. Berratt, Lot 33, Cranebrook Road, Cranebrook N.S.W., 2750.
HIBBERTIA—Leader: Mr. Bernard Dixon, 82 Gilbertson Road, Kardinya, WA., 63.
MELALEUCA—Leader: Mr. Ralph Campbell, 568 Lee-Steere Crescent, Kambah, A.C.T., 2902.
RUTACEAE—Leader: Dr. Mervyn L. Turner, 14 Rose Avenue, Boronia, Victoria, 3155.
STYLIDIUM—Leader: Mr. Richard Davidson, 16 Toolera Street, Melton South, Victoria,
3

To become a member send $1.00, with a stamped, addressed envelope, to one of
the leaders above. No more members for the fern group at present.

Page 33—Vol. 10



@@@ 34 @@@



ART IN BARK

by Danny Zam, Presldent of A.B.A., 62 Lynnegrove Avenue, Corinda, Q. 4075

A study of the history of arts will reveal the influence of arts on society
over a long period of time. The influential educational forces of the Arts
are in many instances responsible for progress and improvement of the
living standard of our society. The main aim of each individual artist still
will be communication with the public and nature.

The earliest white settlers in Australia had a hard and difficult task
to assimilate with nature in a climate so different to their own. Living In
hand made slab huts, their homes were constant reminders of blood
blistered hands and breaking backs.

We surmise that it happened somewhere on the Darling Downs of
Queensland, approximately 120 years ago, that settlers, dependent only
on their personal abilities, first found that pieces of charred bark from
the Melaleuca Trees (Tea-Trees) could be used to depict landscapes or
other scenes, reminding them nostalgically of the beauties of the past. The
rough interiors of the cabins became more homely with the pictures skilfully
framed as decoration.

Neighbours and friends would admire the pictures and produce versions
of their own, developing and improving until the style and variety of today
had been reached.

Art in Bark is indigenous to Australia, and possibly unique as an art
medium. It can be shared by the whole family, and leisure hours spent In

the country can be enjoyed creating bark pictures from materials gathered
in the district.

Everyone can learn to make good pictures! You can learn to create
bark pictures if you possess intelligence, an open mind, normal eyesight,
a lot of sincere interest plus an equal amount of perseverance. Skill can
be acquired, and in a reasonable length of time very acceptable work can
be produced. Many beginners fall by the wayside because of lack of interest,
confidence or perseverance.

Before attempting a difficult subject you must master the small and
simple one — LEARN TO SEE the beauty in shape, colour and texture
while you are collecting bark. All bark (paper bark, banana trash, thin
eucalyptus bark, etc.) should be sprayed with insecticide, and pressed
between newspaper and stored in polythene bags for future use.

Australian trees and plants have more to offer than flowers lasting a
few days. Take for instance Melaleuca: beside economic and asthetic
contribution, they are a major supply of beautiful textured paper-bark of
irreplaceable colours.

Bark artists are seeking co-operation with nature lovers, botanists and
nurserymen to learn more about colours and textures of bark (not only the
top layer — these are bleached) to exploit this unique gift of nature. It
is important to have on hand an assortment of colours and textures of
various barks. Growing your own trees and exchanging bark Is now very
common. The problem is in recognition of trees bearing most wanted bark.
S.G.A.P. members’ knowledge could be an extremely great help to make
this list of coloured barks a “complete artist palette” of living media for
art in bark. (List attached.)

The base for bark pictures should be solid and as light as possible.
Recommended are: solid board (core boards), plywood, masonite or other
chip boards.

Page 34—Vol. 10



@@@ 35 @@@



Glue is water soluble (breakable), of white colour and clear when dry.
Other instruments: thin filleting knife for splitting banana trash and bark;
polyethylene bag of sand (min. 5kg) for pressing glued bark; soldering
iron (30TS — 240V 30W) for soft burning of bark; rag, to take off excess
glue before pressing.

Once you know something about the unique colours and textures of
bark, and how to use and apply it, an attempt at a simple landscape can
be made by drawing the outline in charcoal or soft pencil.

Start with the sky — in one piece or more — and work from the
top down. Apply glue and spread evenly on the area covering the sky. The
colour of the bark representing the sky should be lightest on the horizon.
The bark must be as thin (single layer) as possible, and the whole area
must be spread with glue for good application. When pressing under a
sand bag excess of glue will appear on the edges and these must be
removed by pressing with a rag. Any folds in the bark are easy to patch
up with off-cuts. Loosely tear the thin bark and stick over the holes, beating
the bark edges with a small hammer or other hard object. This will give
perfect joins.

Select Australian motifs of beautiful values only. Remember that objects
in the foreground are of stronger colour value than in the far distance.
Compare sizes, shapes and values.

Enthusiastic “bark artists” are sharing knowledge one with the other.
The Art in Bark Association of Australia also provides lectures and
demonstrations for members once a week in the Technical and Further
Education Building, Wiiliam Street, Brisbane, Q.

BARK COLOUR AND TEXTURE FLOWERS

BOTANICAL NAME TOP INNER LEAVES & OTHER
Melaleuca Soft papery to Corky broad leaves
quinquenervia white-grey light brown cream-whlite
Melaleuca Soft papery light brown feathery-white
linariifolia white-grey to plnk In Summer
Melaleuca Soft papery light plnk to greenish white
decora white-grey red or brown Spring — Summer
Melaleuca Soft pape small leaves
Irbyana grey i soft yellow Inflorescence Sum.
Melaleuca Soft papery light brown white — Infloresc.
sieberl white-grey plnk, red Spring wet condition
Melaleuca Soft — corky yellow — white
leucadendron grey pink 3-5 nerved L.

red, green, white
verelQa/figf: light grey light brown red = pgk
Denhamla Rich orange bark (2 layers) on root only

Stiff thin corky

Calllstemon papery small pink, red cream-white
citrinus flakes w. fibre yellow small brush
Eucalyptus stiff cream-white
tessel};grls Grey-light blue — smooth tex blooms — Christmas
Dillenia flaky texture -— papery yellow flowers
alata dark grey red ruby large leaves

THE CRADLE OF INCENSE
The Genus Prostanthera—by George W. Althofer

An exceptional book about our beautiful mint bushes, known botanically as
Prostanthera. I\)Nhy then the odd title, ““The Cradle of Incense’? It makes fascinating
reading.

With 192 pages, including 70 colour photos of our beautiful mint bushes, and 38
pages of simple, clear sketches, this book is exceptional value.

Available from the Editor for $12.00, plus 60c postage.
Page 35—Vol. 10



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The Genus Melichrus RBr.

T. J. HAWKESWOOD, University of New England, N.S.W.

The genus Melichrus, first described in 1810 by Robert Brown, and
represented by only four species, is yet another beautiful group of the heath
family Epacridaceae. It is endemic to N.S.W., Queensland and Victoria,
M. urceolatus and M. procumbens being the most common or widespread,
or the most well-known species found. Paterson (1957) has covered all the
species in quite some detail for those interested in more taxonomic information
than is given here.

The Melichrus species are small or medium-sized, erect or procumbent,
mostly prickly shrubs with sessile linear-to broad-lanceolate leaves. The
flowers are axillary, solitary and sessile with several bracts and two bracteoles
embracing the calyx. In all the species, the stems have a scaly texture; this
is due to the leaves having fallen off, leaving leaf-scars. The corolla-tube
is short and broad with five densely glandular scales inside, alternating with
the stamens. The globular or pea-shaped glands are prominent and reddish
(Paterson 1957). It is from the colour of the glands that Melichrus recelves
its name; it is from the Greek melichros, meaning honey-coloured. The
spreading corolla-lobes are longer than the tube, and are valvate in bud;
they may be bearded or glabrous (i.e. without hairs) inside. The five stamens
are epipetalous (i.e. attached to the petals without filaments), and alternate
with the corolla-lobes; the anthers are oblong and one-celled. The ovary lIs
usually five-locular with a single ovule in each loculus. The style is very
short. The fruit is a drupe with a dry or slightly pulpy mesocarp and a
hard, bony endocarp containing five seeds, or fewer by abortion.

A large quantity of nectar is produced by the nectary glands, so much
so, that | have adapted the vernacular name of “nectar-heath” to this group
so that the two species, M. adpressus and M. erubescens may have a common
name, as | believe no specific vernacular name has been given to these two
species.

A key to the species follows, as well as a brief description of the species
and a few notes on cultivation.

KEY TO THE SPECIES OF MELICHRUS

A. Leaves ciliate, sprinkled with longish hairs, flat, finely pointed but not
pungent to touch, 12-28 mm 1.2-4 mm wide, linear-lanceolata. Corolla
cream, urceolate in bud but rotate when open.

Jam Tarts. M. procumbens (Cav.) Druce (1917)
syn. M. rotatus R.Br. (1810).
*A. Leaves usually glabrous, pungent to touch.

B. Leaves with distinct papery margins, lanceolate 15-35mm in length.
Corolla whitish. Fruit 3-5 mm diameter and ovoid in shape.

Large Nectar-Heath. M. adpressus.

A. Cunn. ex DC. (1838)

*B. Leaves without papery margins.

C. Anthers inserted at the centre of the corolla-tube. Corolla greenish-white
to cream. Fruit ovoid, green to brown, wrinkled with a # smooth apex.
Urn-Heath. M. urceolatus R.Br. (1810).

*C. Anthers inserted just below the summit of the corolla-tube. Corolla
reddish. Fruit globular, dark red when ripe, wrinkled when dry.
Western Nectar-Heath. M. erubescens
A. Cunn ex DC. (1838).
Page 36—Vol. 10



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Melichrus procumbens Photography by Brian Hawkeswood

A small shrub to 30 cm high with cream flowers containing large quantities of orange
nectar. Note the pointed leaves with white hairs, a characteristic feature of this species.

M. procumbens, as the specific epithet suggests, is a procumbent (i.e.
trailing along the ground but not taking root), little shrub to 30 cm in height.
It is usually compact but plants which spread in all directions are quite
common. The crowded leaves are linear-lanceolate up to about 3cm in
length, and are distinguished from other Melichrus species by the hairs on
the leaves. The corolla is mostly cream in colour; the flowers are usually
facing the ground on the underside of the branches and careful observation
is needed to detect them. The vernacular name, ‘“Jam-tarts” is given
because the flowers, when fully spread open, contain a great quantity of
sweet-tasting nectar, appearing like the well-known jam-tarts. The fruit is
red and depressed, about 5 mm diameter. It inhabits heath on sandstones,
and on sandy soils, or on granite outcrops, from just north of Brisbane to
the Blue Mountains, in dry sclerophyll forest. Specimens | have examined
in the two herbariums (i.e. U.N.E. and N.S.W.), and in the field, have been
collected from the following places — Qld.: Gympie, Brisbane, Stanthorpe;
N.S.W.: Tenterfield, Glen Innes, Armidale. Newcastle and Glenbrook.
M. procumbens is divided into two populations (Paterson 1957), one in the
New England-Brisbane region, and the other in the Port Jackson and
Lower Blue Mountains region. It flowers from June to September. It does
not appear to be very common.

M. adpressus, is the largest of the four species, being an erect shrub
0.3-1.5m in height. The crowded leaves are lanceolate, 15-35 mm in length
and are appressed (i.e. == parallel to the stem). The leaves are characteristic
in having margins which are papery in construction. The flowers are cream
to white and are mostly hidden by the appressed condition of the leaves.
The fruit is ovoid in shape and mostly 5 mm in diameter, and is distinguished
by having the top half of the fruit smooth and green to brown In colour, and
the lower half dark brown and wrinkled. As with all the nectar-heaths,

Page 37—Vol. 10



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M. adpressus prefers sandy soils and has been found in isolated colonies
around Herberton, Nth. Qld. (Paterson 1957); the main centre of location is
around Brisbane and the coastal areas around Tweed Heads and just north

of Coff's Harbour. It is a most attractive shrub. Flowers July-August.

THE GENUS MELICHRUS R.Br.
(NECTAR HEATHS)

2 \
\

i

M urceolatus
R.Br.

gfir (URN-HEATH) ‘

.0
A.
M.erubescens 1
A.Cunn, exDC. 5
(WESTERN NECTAR HEATH)
3
4
)i
N\ 4
\ \" 0
W " 1
, "
‘ y 2
¥ e 3
\ / Ccm.
k‘*»l'/ M.adpressus M procumbens
\3

ACunn exDC.

& (Cav).Druce.
laeseand 7% > (| ARGE NECTAR HEATH)

(JAM=TARTS)

KEY TO THE PLATE Drawing by Brian Hawkeswood

A-G: Scales as Indicated: E, F, G to same scale.

A to D: specles as Indicated.

E: Frult of M. erubescens: corolla and several bracts removed.

F: Transverse sectlon of a flower of M. urceolatus, showing corolla lobes (p), stamen (st),
glands (g), style (s), ovary (o) and hypogynous disc. (hd).

G: Flower of M. urceolatus "(bracts (b) and sepals (se) ).

Page 38—Vol. 10



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M. erubescens, the Western-Nectar Heath, is a straggling or erect prickly
shrub up to 1.2m in height, with leaves linear-lanceolate 8-30 mm in length
with a pungent mucronate tip. The corolla is reddish in hue, and the fruit
is dark red in colour about 5-8 mm diameter; it becomes wrinkled when
dry. This species grows in the Coonabarabran-Gilgandra district and the
Warrumbungle National Park area of the Central Western Plains and slopes
of N.S.W. It flowers during the spring months.

M. urceolatus, the most common and widespread species, is an erect,
prickly much-branched small or medium-sized shrub 0.2-1.2m in height;
the leaves are narrow-lanceolate, 8-25 mm in length, crowded and with a
pungent mucronate tip. The flowers are coloured pale green to yellow-white.
The fruit is egg-shaped (i.e. ovoid), wrinkled with a smooth apex about
5 mm diameter. It is mainly found growing in low fertile sandstone or granite
soiis in open forested country, from S.E. Qld., through most of eastern
N.S.W. to central Victoria. It flowers from April to September.

Blombery (1967) states that propagation from seeds is difficult and it
is best to try growing Melichrus by cuttings of young shoots or older branches.
| would recommend collecting soil from around specimens which had cuttings
taken from them, since the soil may contain seeds which may germinate
later. Cuttings should be prepared as outlined by Blombery (1967) and (1973),
and should be grown in pots or similar containers, using a sandy-loam
medium or soil taken from the native habitats of the plants, with a layer
of humus to add some soil nutrients. Other fertilisers may be applied later.
Specimens of M. procumbens that | have examined growing at Glenbrook,
prefer a sheltered position and a good-supply of water with adequate drainage.
| have not been able to grow Melichrus myself, but | would like to hear from
those who may have had success in growing these interesting and worthwhile
plants.

Allosyncarpia
A new genus in the family Myrtaceae, by C. N. Debenham
The Editor has drawn my attention to a posthumous publication in Austrobaileya 1(1);
43-46 (1977), by Dr S. T. Blake. The new genus is based, inter alia, on partial fusion of

flowers in small heads, the free part of each flower eventually splitting away after dehis-
cence of the single seed.

Allosyncarpia ternata is the only species in this new genus and comprises
trees (up to 18m. high) of the Northern Territory (Darwin and the Gulf districts).
Leaves are ternate (in 3's), the blades broad (7.5-11 x 1.2-2.8 cm), acute at
apex and base, very shortly petiolate, paler and duller on the undersurface,
pinnately-veined and with a distinct intramarginal vein. Flowers are in pedun-
culate groups of 3 forming narrow and long racemes, the whole with a dense
white down of branched, septate hairs which the author notes are unique in
the family. Each flower is about .4 x 4 mm. at the base, with 5 broadly ovate,
ciliate, dotted and veined petals abt. 2 mm. long, and 5 broadly triangular
sepals. The ovary is completely adnate with the receptacle and below the free
part, 2-locular. In fruit, usually 1 locule aborts, the single seed relatively large,
peltate and horizontally placed, shed before the splitting away of the free part
of the receptacle. Stamens are free, longer than the petals (2-4 mm long), in
several series, with versatile anthers (cells parallel, opening longitudinally).
Styles are simple, the stigma small.

Placement of the new genus in the family is difficult. Because of a similar
splitting away of that part of the receptacle above the ovary, a 2-locular ovary
and single broad seed, its author suggests closest affinity is with Eucalyptopsis
(2 species of large trees from Papua and the Moluccas). In this genus, petals
and sepals form an operculum which is shed with the opening of the flower
— hence ‘Eucalypt-like’. It has less affinity with Syncarpia, the partial union
of receptacles being the one feature in common. With Choricarpia it shares
the 2-locular ovary and single ovule per loculus, but although flowers of
Choricarpia are crowded in heads, they are not united.

Page 39—Vol. 10



@@@ 40 @@@



Flora of South Australia

This third edition of Part 1 of the flora of South Australia has just
been released. Of 466 pages, this well presented edition covering the
Lycopodiaceae to Orchidaceae is available from the Publications Officer,
S.A. Government Printing Division, 282 West Beach Road, Netley, 5037,
for $16.90, with postage extra. Parts 2 and 3 (second edition) are available
bound in one volume for $6.50, and Part 4 for $5.00. Total post. $3.00.

NINDETHANA SEED SERVICE

LARGEST SELECTION OF NATIVE SEED IN AUSTRALIA

SEND 20¢ STAMP FOR FREE CATALOGUE AVAILABLE IN 50¢ pkts, gram lots or kgs.

ADDRESS: NINDETHANA, NARRIKUP, W.A. §326

BODDY’S — EASTERN PARK NURSERY NATIVES

Large range of popular and rare varieties in tubes. S.A.E. for Catalogue.
Specialists in despatch.

Lot 2, Farm Road, Cheltenham, 3192
Phone (03) 550-5987; A/H 509-2804

Newcase  NORTHRIDGE COTTAGE

REGION
NATIVE PLANT NURSERY (049) 87-2397
RANGERS ROAD RAYMOND TERRACE, 2324
on the Western Shore of the Grahamstown Dam
Turn East off The Pacific Hwy. 4 km North of the Town

NINDETHANA NATIVE PLANT SEEDS

Australia’s biggest supplier.

Available by packet, ounce or pound — Send for a free catalogue.
Nindethana, Narrikup, W.A. 6326

PRINTING

MAGAZINES, BOOKS, BROCHURES, PRICE LISTS,
CATALOGUES, OFFICE STATIONERY, LETTERHEADS,
INVOICES, STATEMENTS, ENVELOPES, BUSINESS CARDS

W
Consistent quality and unbeatable service \l—[—!
together with reasonable costs remove most 4
of the problems confronting people purchasing \’///

printing at . . .

—
SURREY BEATTY & SONS PTY LTD””’

S
43 RICKARD ROAD, CHIPPING NORTON, N.S.W. 2170& ?;
Telephone: (02) 602-7404, 602-3126 \\\/_/ NN
\7:’;— N
U\Q{‘_‘%fi'
Y

Page 40—Vol. 10



@@@ 41 @@@



MOLYNEUX NURSERIES Pty Ltd
Belfast Road, Montrose, 3765. Phone: 728-1353
trading as AUSTRAFLORA NURSERY

Open 7 Days a Week
MON.-SAT., 9 a.m.-5.30 p.m.; SUNDAY, 10 a.m.-5.30 p.m.

The widest range of Australian Plants is also avallable
through our Agencies

ADELAIDE: CANBERRA:

Lawry’s Native Nursery Rodney’s Nursery

Star and Arrow Road 24 Beltana Road

COROMANDEL, EAST. PIALLIGO,

Phone: (08) 388-2118. Phone: (062) 73 2635.

SYDNEY: WERRIBEE:

Yallaroo Gardens Grevillea Nursery

R.M.B. 5179 Wattle Tree Road Derrimut Road

HOLGATE Via GOSFORD. WERRIBEE

Phone: (043) 67-7023. Phone: (03) 741-3100.
WODONGA:

Mann’s of Wodonga Garden Centre
116-126 High Street WODO
Phone: (060) 24-1066.

AUSTRAFLORA IS AUSTRALIAN PLANTS

Generally 150-200 species available, many rare
Open Wed. to Sun. 10am to 5pm and by arrangement.

Cedar Wattles Native Plants
89 BLUES POINT RD. NORTH SYDNEY. PHONE 929-6583

DEANES ORCHID NURSERY

Speclalising In Australlan Natlve Orchlds
Please send for descriptlve list. Plants sent anywhere.
Nursery open every weekend — Weekdays phone (02) 651-1798
29 HEMERS ROAD, DURAL, N.S.W. 2119

JOHN and ANNA TOPP

NATIVE PLANT NURSERY
Lot 58, Cranbourne-Frankston Rd., Cranbourne Sth., Vic.—Ph.: (059) 78-2288
(300 metres east of Hastings-Dandenong Road intersection)
WIDE RANGE OF GOOD QUALITY PLANTS AT NEAR WHOLESALE PRICES

Closed Tues. and Wed. — Wholesale and Retail

LAKKAR' RUSSELL and SHARON COSTIN, Retail & Wholesale
gmwers of I\'IqaltiveFTrees,PSfrubsb Grc:fundl govcrliland
reepers — SO erns, alms, ycads, Indoor ants

NATIVE PLANT Specialists in Honey Flora
NURSERY Many selected Natives unique to Queensland as well

as new cultivars and hybrids.
(Lakkari means Banksia 477 REDLAND BAY ROAD, CAPALABA, QLD. 4157
Integrifolia) Open 7 days — Phone: Brisbane 206-4119

CLEARVIEW NURSERY, W. Cane, Box 19, Maffra, Vic. 3860. Specialist in developed plants

TASMANIAN FOREST SEEDS

Support nurseryman

T. WALDUCK
‘“‘Summerleas Farm’, Kingston, Tas. 7150 ] H
All Tasmanlan Tree Specles and advertlsmg n

Ornamental Shrubs.

Send S.A.E. for free llist. AUSTRALIAN PLANTS

Sales by packet or In bulk

Page 41—Vol. 10



@@@ 42 @@@



PRESERVATION BY CULTIVATION

Closed Tuesdays

FLORALANDS

KARIONG, via GOSFORD, N.S.W. 2250 — Prop. Brlan & Lyn Parry
A large varlety of the most popular natlve plants at nursery

PHONE: Gosford 40-1142

Send $1.50 for descriptive catalogue.

WANTED TO BUY

Palm, Shrubs and Tree Seed of
Australian and Exotic Species in
batches of 100 grams or more.

FLAMINGO ENTERPRISES
PTY. LTD.

P.0. Box 1037, EAST NOWRA,
N.S.W., 2540

Warrandyte Road, Research, Vic.

PARSONS NATIVE PLANT
NURSERY

Trees, Shrubs, Ground Cover, Climbers
Speclallsing In Grevilleas
Open Thur., Frl., Sat., 9-5; Sun.,, 9-1

3096

AUSTRALIAN NATIVE PLANTS

FOREST
NATIVE

FOR SYDNEY GARDENS

$2.50 posted (Catalogue)

i NURSERY

9 Namba Rd., Duffy's Forest, N.S.W. 2084
(beslde Waratah Park), (02) 450-1785

MICHIE’'S KENTLYN NATIVE
PLANT NURSERY
Speclallsing In Australlan Plants

Beth & Bob Michle Invite you to call
96c George’s Rlver Road, Kentlyn, 2560

Phone: Campbelltown 25-1583
Closed Tuesday and Wednesday only

(047) 77 4256

Cranebrook Native Nursery
R23 Cranebrook Rd., Cranebrook, NSW

4 mlles north of Penrlth, between
Tadmore and Taylor Rds.

Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Sundays.
No Mail Orders

CLOVERDALE PARK NURSERY

57 CLOVERDALE ROAD, DOOLANDELLA, 4077

QUEENSLAND Kakea fraseri,

NATlVE PLANTS Cryptocarya laevigata v.
Guilfoylia monostylis,

including: archerizna,

(D. HANGER)

Kunzea flavescens, Buckinghamia celsissima,

Ervatamia angustisepala,
Lagerstroemia

Bowei,
Jasminum volubile,

Microcitrus australis.

DAVID & MARGARET'S NATIVE FLORA
We have thousands of plants for your
selection. Set amidst acres of land-
scaped garden areas. Located two
miles past Woori Yallock at Braeside
Drive Launching Place, Vic.
(059) 64-7631, THURS. to SUN.
(Established 1974)

WIRRIMBIRRA

Hume Highway, between Tahmoor and
Bargo, N.S.W. 2574
AUSTRALIAN PLANTS

Wide Range — Phone: Bargo 84-1112
OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK

cAustralis

Huge selectlon from ground
cover to trees, rare and the
common, sizes large or small

Open Saturday and Sunday

couecrors NURSERIES

Cnr BELLEVUE CRES and SEAFORD RD SEAFORD

NATIVE PLANT SPECIALIST
KEVIN REED

Vic. 3198 (Closed Mon. and Tues.)

BELBRA NURSERY

In the heart of the Gramplans

LARGE RANGE OF AUSTRALIAN
NATIVES

Closed Wednesday only
BOX 12, HALL'S GAP, VIC. 3381

NAROOMA NATIVE NURSERY
(H. & N. RYAN, Proprietors)

15 TILBA ST., NAROOMA, N.S.W., 2546

PHONE 132
Good varlety of Natlve Plants — Open
all week except Sunday morning.

First Class Hollday Accommodation

avallable at Nursery site.
Write for Brochure

NANGANA NATIVE PLANT NURSERY
COCKATOO-WOORI YALLOCK ROAD
6.4 km from Cockatoo, Vic.

Large range, including over 100 Grevilleas
(6 cm to bucket size)

PHONE (059) 68-8337
Open every day except Tues. and Wed.
(also closed June and July)

GRASSTREE
NATIVE PLANT NURSERY
BROWN'S RD., ROSEBUD SOUTH, 3939
(Opposite Hyslops Rd.)

10a.m. to 5p.m. — Wed. to Sun. Inc.
Over 1000 Specles In Propagation.

Nursery In Natural Bushland Setting.

Page 42—Vol. 10



@@@ 43 @@@



‘s t 4 s
Past Issues of ‘“Australian Plants’’ Available

Because of the vast wealth of our flora there is very little repetition, each volume
becoming a valuable reference book in itself. Each volume has a separate abridged
index, but a composite index for volumes 1-8 incl. will be available shortly as a separate
book from the Editor for $2.00 including postage.

It is intended to maintain all volumes in print in bound hard-cover form, beautifully
presented with gold-lettered green vinyl covering. Each volume has bound with it
another Society book as indicated below. The retail price is $15.00, but they are
available by mail from the Editor at $12.00 each up to 1-1-80. Postage 50c¢ per vol.

VOLUME No. 1. Issues 1-12 — to be reprinted in 1980. Watch for announcements.

VOLUME No. 2. Issues 13-20, no longer avallable—to be reprinted in 1980.

VOLUME No. 3. Issues 21-28, bound with ‘’Catalogue of Cultivated Australian Plants’’.
VOLUME No. 4. Issues 29-36, with “West. Aust. Plants for Hortlculture—Part 1%
VOLUME No. 5. Issues 37-44, bound with “The Language of Botany’'.

VOLUME No. 6. Issues 45-52, with '“West. Aust. Plants for Horticulture—Part II".
VOLUME No. 7. Issues 53-60, bound with ‘““North Australian Plants’’.

VOLUME No g Issues 61-68, bound with “The Cradle of Incense’

y Issues 69-76. Each issue to date available at $1.00 post free.
VOLUME No. 10. Issues 77-84. Each issue to date available at $1.00 post free.

Other Books Published by the Society:

“AUSTRALIAN INDIGENOUS ORCHIDS”, by A. W. Dockrill, $30.00 including postage.
The only complete reference to Australian epiphytic orchids and tropical terrestrials.

““WEST AUSTRALIAN PLANTS", ‘A descriptive catalogue’ by Dr. J. S. Beard, $7.50 plus
60c postage. The only complete reference to the flora of Western Australia.

““WEST AUSTRALION PLANTS FOR HORTICULTURE"”, Parts 1 & 2, by K. Newby, each
$7.50 plus 60c postage. A valuable guide to the plants with horticultural potential.

“NORTH AUSTRALIAN PLANTS", by Jenny Harmer, $7.50 plus 60c postage. The most
comprehensive reference to plants of the Darwin area available.

““CRADLE OF INCENSE"”, ‘The Genus Prostanthera’ by G. W. Althofer, $12.00 plus 60c
postage. The only reference to our Mint Bushes.

“THE LANGUAGE OF BOTANY"”, by C. N. Debenham, $3.90 plus 60c postage. An
outstanding reference to botanical terms, with examples from Australian flora.

““AUSTRALIAN PLANT INDEX—Vols. 1-8"". A comprehensive index to all species, authors,
etc. $2.00 including postage. Not available until July, 1979.

“A HORTICULTURAL GUIDE TO AUSTRALIAN PLANTS". Large colour plates of species
with descriptions, etc., on rear for filing as issued in a D-ring binder. Sets of 32
sheets in each of 1-4 at $2.50 per set, plus 50c postage; binder $2.00 plus 80c
postage. The whole series, sets 1-4 with binder — $10.00 plus $1.60 postage.

““ACACIAS OF NEW SOUTH WALES", by I|. Armitage. All N.S.W. wattles described and
illustrated by sketches and colour. $7.50 plus 50c postage.

The Society for Growing Australian Plants

The Society is for people interested in the Australian flora, its preservation and
cultivation in the wild, in parks, and in public and private gardens. Preservation of our
magnificent flora will, in the long term, depend on the knowledge accumulated, on its
cultivation under a wide range of conditions. We hope to learn more about this by
cultivating wildflowers in the garden, encouraging research on this aspect, and to
record this in ‘‘Australian Plants”.

The Society offers many services in all States, such as meetings, instruction, shows,
field outings, seed, propagating aids and friendship, much on a mail basis for those
who cannot or do not wish to attend meetings.

Enquiries for membership should be directed to:

SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—N.S.W. REGIO
President: Mr. Hugh Stacy, 16 Booyong Avenue, Lugarno, NSW 2210.
Secretary: Mr. Ray Page, 21 Robb Street, Revesb N.S\W., 2212.
SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—QUEENSLAND REGION:
President: Mr. L. Smith, Lot 29, Vores Road, Petrie, 4502.
Secretary: Mrs. Lorna Murray P.0. Box 809, Fortitude Valley, Qld., 40
SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—SOUTH AUSTRALIAN REGION (Inc)
President: M. W. Pybus, 41 Harrow Road, Somerton Park, S.A., 44,
Secretary: Wyn M. Spier, Box 10, P.O., Blackwood, S.A., 51
SOCIETY FOR GROW/NG AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—TASMANIAN REGION:
President: Mrs. J. Closs, 7 Vyella Court, Austin’s Ferry, Ts
Secretary: Mrs. K. Korbett, 35 Pillinger Drive, Ferntree, 7101.
SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—VICTORIAN REGION:
President: Mr. R. G. McDonald, Lot 104, Oakdale Road, P.O. Box 9, Upper Ferntree
Gully, Vic., 3156.
Secretary: (Sister) E. R. Bowman, 4 Homebush Crescent, Hawthorn East, Victoria,
3123. Please do not call at private home—enquiries by telephone or mail only.
SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—CANBERRA REGION:
President: Mr. Geoff Butler, 29 Milford Street, Latham, A.C.T., 2608.
Secretary: Mrs. Christine Tynam, P.O. Box 207, Civic Square, ‘A.C.T., 2608.
WEST AUSTRALIAN WILDFLOWER SOC. (Inc.):
President: Dr. N. Marchant, P.O. Box 64, Nedlands, W.A., 6009.
Secretary: Miss B. Britton, P.O. Box 64, Nedlands, W.A., 6009.

“AUSTRALIAN PLANTS IS AUSTRALIA'S NATIONAL PRESERVATION JOURNAL
(A non-profit making venture, produced quarterly, dedicated to preservation by cultivation)
PUBLISHING SECTION FOR SOCIETIES—Produced as a non-profit venture.
Managing Editor: W. H. Payne, assisted by P. D. Leak; Despatch by E. Hubner,
H. Jones. Do not telephone or call at private home—enquiries by mail only.
NON-MEMBERS: You may receive the next 4 issues direct to your home by
forwarding an annual subscription of $3.00. Overseas subscrlptlon $4.20 Aust., £2.80
in English currency or $6.50 U.S. Send to The Editor, ““Australian Plants’’, 860 Henry
Lawson Drive, Picnic Point, N.S.W., 2213.

COPYRIGHT — AIll material copyright as directed by authors.
Page 43—Vol. 10



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Beaufortia sparsa

No this is not what is generally known as a ‘“’bottle-brush’ plant i a Callistemon
but a closely related genus of plants Beaufortia from the same plant famlly of Myrtaceae.
However most plants from this large family with flowers similar to the bottle-brush, are
readily own. Beaufortia sparsa above prefers more liberal, watering than is necessary
for other plants in this family. The abundant flowering is the reward for extra ca
Species of Melaleuca as mentioned on page 28 also have bottle-brush flowers or pom-pom
type flowers. Why don’t you grow some?

Surrey Beatty & Sons, Printers