'Australian Plants' Vol.5 No.42 March 1970

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PUBLISHED BY THE SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS IN 11,000 COPIES

Registered at G.P.O., Sydney, for transmission MARCH, 1970 Volume 5, No. 42
by post as a periodical. Volume 5 will comprise issues 37-44
Price: 30c

Photography by J. Wrigley

LESCHENAULTIA TUBIFLORA

AUSTRALIAN WILDFLOWERS FOR ROCKERIES

AUSTRALIAN ORCHIDS—METHODS OF PROPAGATION AND CULTURE



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Page 242—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—CONTENTS March, 1970

WILDFLOWERS FOR THE GARDEN—CONTENTS OF THIS ISSUE

Many wildflowers have considerable horticultural value. This issue presents some suitable

for rockeries and small gardens but other plants are described also:
CORAL TREES OF AUSTRALIA—Street Trees—page 283.
EPACRIDACEAE—The Heaths—Sphenotoma, a W.A. Epacrid—254, 257.
EUCALYPTS IN COLD COUNTRIES—Gum trees for rigorous conditions—263.
GOODENIACEAE—LESCHENAULTIA—Ideal garden plants. See Family Goodeniaceae below.
IRIS FAMILY PLANTS—Iridaceae—243, 274.
KANGAROO PAW FAMILY—Haemodoraceae—244, 246.
LILY FAMILY PLANTS—Liliaceae—262, 273.
ORCHIDS—Dendrobium kmglanum—275 276, 2717.

Gastrodia, the ‘‘Potato Orchids’—278, 279.

Terrestrial orchids, Caladenia, Glossodia—288.

“Orchids From Seed”—Details of a method by a housewife—270.
PROTEACEAE—Dryandra, Grevillea, Petrophile—pp. 250.
PUSSY TAILS—Ptilotus—pp. 246, 249.
STURT’S DESERT PEA—Clzanthus Cultivation in container—pp. 259.
TASMANIAN WILDFLOWERS—Isophyszs pp 273—Wattle, pp. 280.
WATTLES—The Wattles of Tasmania, 280.
CULTIVATION & PROPAGATION OF WILDFLOWERS

Each article above gives information on cultivation and some on propagation but
very interesting special articles are:
SEED GERMINATION—A Novel Small Capillary Bed—pp. 260.
INSECT PEST CONTROL—By the use of insects—pp. 276.

THE PLANT FAMILY GOODENIACEAE

Anthotium humile R.Br. Perennial herb flowers pink or white/pink. A. rubriflorum
(F. Muell.) Benth. See page 246.

Calogyne. Herbs with yellow flowers. Eight species across northern Australia.

Catosperma goodeniacea (F. Muell.) Krause. The only species of the genus.
A prostrate hairy leaved herb with yellow flowers growing in spinifex
areas.

Dampiera. There are 58 species of which 40 are restricted to the south-west
corner of Australia. Most are beautiful rock garden plants as described
and illustrated in colour on page nos. 251, 252.

Diaspasis filifolia. The only species is described on page 246.

Goodenia. There are 115 to 120 species only one of which is found outside
Australia. 57 are confined to the south-west corner of Australia but
others are quite widesread. Two species are described on page 247.

Leschenaultia. There are 19 species, only one of which is found outside
Australia. The species L. biloba, “Blue Leschenaultia” has made these
plants quite famous. See page 248.

Neogoodenia minutiflora C. A. Gardn. & A. S. George. The only species of
the genus is recorded as a prostrate annual with inconspicuous flowers
growing in mulga country of south-western Australia.

Pentaptilon careyi (F. Muell.) E. Pritzel. The only species of the genus is
an erect herb 6-16 inches high with yellow flowers growing in the sand
heath country between Shark’s Bay and Northampton of S.W. Australia.

Scaevola. Of the 70 Australian species 50 occur in the S.W. Beautiful small
plants, some described and illustrated on page no. 253.

Selliera exigua F. Muell. is a prostrate dwarf herb with blue flowers found
in the S.W. Will readers please report on the only eastern species.

Symphyobasis. The only two species are found in the S.W. S. alsinoides S.
Moore is a tufted herb with yellow flowers and S. macroplecta (F. Muell.)
Krause is a viscid annual with yellow flowers.

Velleia. The 19 species are widespread throughout Australia. Two species are
described on pp. 247 and V. spathulata is described and illustrated in full
colour in our No. 37 issue.

Verreauxia. The three species are small woody plants with yellow flowers
all being confined to S.W. Australia. V. paniculata is a subshrub or
herb with a basal rosette of leaves. V. reinwardtii is a slender shrub
to 3 feet and V. villosa is similar.



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March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR ROCKERIES Page 243—Vol.'5

WILDFLOWERS FOR THE ROCKERY

John Wrigley, Curator, Canberra Botanic Gardens

Many Australian plants have enormous potential for rockeries, but until
now have been tried only rarely in cultivation. At Canberra Botanic Gardens,
many species are now undergoing trials and this article describes some of
those which have shown the most promise.

It should be noted that when a species is declared frost hardy, it means that it is hardy
in Canberra Botanic Gardens. Minimum temperatures, here are usually not as low as those

experienced in other parts of Canberra. As a guide a frost hardy species is one that will
not be damaged by grass temperatures of 20°F (7°C).

SOME NATIVE IRIS

Diplarrena moraea (Butterfly Flag or White Iris)

As the common name suggests this plant is a member of the family
Iridaceae. It is common in Tasmania and extends into Victoria and the
South Coast of N.S.W. D. moraea has been in cultivation in Canberra for
o number of years and for the last two years has been successfully used in
mass plantings. Propagation is from seed which sets readily and germinates
well. The species flowers best in full sun, responds to watering and is frost
hardy. A well grown plant forms a thick clump, 6" or 8" across in a few
years with thin, stiff iris-like leaves about 18" long. The white flowers
are borne on 2 ft. stems in Spring and are displayed well.

Patersonia occidentalis (Native Iris)

This is a common plant of the South West Province of Western Australia.
It bears a profusion of purple flowers during spring and early summer. As
for all Patersonia, the best method of propagation is from seed which
germinates readily without treatment. A massed planting at 15" centres
has flowered well this spring (1969) after being planted in spring of 1968.
The species is frost hardy, enjoys full sun and appears to stand dry conditions
once established. Several plants have been noted to die back in early
December 1969, but some of these are shooting again from the base. The
cause of die back has not yet been ascertained. The species makes an ideal
individual rockery plant, with a long flowering period. Flowering height
12”-15". See colour plate on page 245.

Thysanotus juncifolius (Fringe Lily or Fringed Violet)

This delightful almost leafless plant of the East Coast grows best in
full sun and damp conditions. A massed display in the car park area of the
Botanic Gardens has proved a spectacle this spring and summer. The purple
flowers open in the mornings and flowering continues for some months.
Propagation is easy from seed and the species is frost hardy. In a rockery,
single plants or groups of 3 or 4 at 9” centres would make attractive
placements. Flowering height is about 12”.

Thysanotus multiflorus (Fringed Lily)

A Western Australian member of the genus which is more showy as an
individual plant than the former species, but does require some protection
from frost. The species will survive the winter in Canberra if it is covered
with hessian at night or if it is grown under some tree cover or against
a wall. Again propagation is from seed but unlike T. juncifolius it prefers
a drier, well drained situation again with full sun. Leaves are reed-like
and about 9" long and flowers are borne in Spring and Summer in closely
packed heads on stems about 12" high.



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Page 244—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR ROCKERIES March, 1970

Colour photography by P. Fetherstone
BLACK KANGAROO PAW (Macropidia fuliginosa)

This curious flower is not actually black, rthe petals and stamens being green but densely

covered with black hairs. It is placed in a separate genus from the other Kangaroo Paws

and has much larger seeds.

MANGLES’ OR KING’S PARK
KANGAROO PAW
(Anigosanthos manglesii)

Is Western Australia’s Floral
Emblem. It is well distributed
throughout the south-west but
is particularly common in, and
characteristic of, the bushland
areas of King’s Park.

WHAT ROCKERY IS
COMPLETE WITHOUT
KANGAROO PAWS
Our Vol. 2 No. 6 issue describes

all the paws and gives details
of their -cultivation.



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March. 1870 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR ROCKLRIES Page 245—Vol. 5
e et it e

A LOVELY PLANT FOR THE ROCKERY

Photography by J. Glass

Johnsonia pubescens

Characteristic of the three species in the genus all of which only grow to two feet,
this plant is an ideal character form for a rockery. Johnsonia lupulina is described on
page 262. The other species J. acaulis is similar although sometimes a little larger.

| Patersonia occidentalis

| A typical ‘‘native iris”’. See

| page 243 for description or issue
No. 33 for a closer photograph
of this type of flower.

Block donated by N. B.
Thomson.



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Page. 246—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN «“ PLANTS : FOR ROCKERIES March, 1970

KANGAROO PAW FAMILY PLANTS FOR' ROCKERIES {Haemodoraceae)

What rockery is complete without Kangaroo Paws. See pp. 244.
Conostylis aculeata

A number of Conostylis species are under ftrial at Canberra and one
species, C. aculeata, has been used successfully in a massed display -for
two years. Growing in one of the coldest and most open sections of the
Gardens, these plants have withstood grass temperatures of 18°F and have
shown no ill effects. The yellow heads of flowers were borne in profusion
this Spring on stems 12" high. Plants may be grown singly or massed at
15" centres in a well drained situation. Propagation is from seed and
flowering does not occur until the second season.f Other species on trial are
C. setigera, C. caricina, C. candicans, C. setosa and C. stylidioides.
Blancoa canescens (Red Bugle)

The superficial appearance of this quaint little plant is reminiscent of the
Christmas Bells (Blandfordia) of the ‘Eastern states. In: fact, the species is in
the Kangaroo Paw family (Haemodoraceae) and seems to grow well in a well
drained medium.

PUSSY TAILS
Ptilotus exaltatus

Belonging to the Amaranthaceae, the genus Ptilotussincludes a number
of valuable but almost completely neglected garden plants, particularly suited
to dry areas. P. exaltatus is a perennial with dark gregn leaves and long
spikes of feathery pink flowers in spring and summer. The%species has been
grown successfully in Canberra from both seed and cuttings and plants are
now flowering in large containers with flower spikes 18" high. It is not yet
certain if the species is completely frost hardy. Propagating material for
this species was collected from near Kimba (S.A.) and in the Flinders Ranges.
Ptilotus spathulatus

This species forms a much smaller plant than the former but makes
an interesting and aftractive .item for the front row of the rockery. From
a central rosette of leaves, the flowering branches are pushed out some
6" from the centre. The flowering spike is then sent up vertically as if coming
straight out of the ground. Flower colour is greenish and the spike is about
3" long with again a feathery texture. Propagation is from seed and
plants will flower within 6 months of sowing. Frost resistance has not yet been
established. See page 249 for other species and colour plate.

GOODENIACEAE—IDEAL FOR SMALL GARDENS AND ROCKERIES
Diaspasis filifolia '

A member of the Goodeniaceae, this plant would seem to be ideal
for the soggy corner of the rockery. It is endemic to the S.W. Province of
W.A. and grows on the edge of swamps often with its roots in water.
Plants in Canberra have been propagated from cuttings from which they
seem to strike readily. The species displays masses of white star-like flowers
in Spring and Summer and specimens here have flowered well in plastic
bags in their first season. It is not yet certain if this species can withstand
frost but it has been determined that ample watering is a must for continued
growth. A fully grown plant may reach 12” high and 12" diameter.
Anthotium rubriflorum

Another member of the Goodeniaceae, this little plant has heads of
brilliant red flowers in the Spring and Summer on stems about 8" high.
The plants growing in Canberra were collected as transplants from the
Lake King area of West Australia and are still in pots. It is hoped that



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March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR ROCKERIES Page 247—Vol. 5

these plants will set seed this year to enable further propagation to be
carried out. Little is known of the speaes requirements but from its habitat,
a well drained, dry and sunny position is suggested. Superficially the flowers
are reminiscent of the exotic, red Kalanchoes but the inflorescence arises
from a basal rosette of leaves.

Dampiera diversifolia

This prostrate, dark blue, flowered plant is becoming well known to
many native plant enthusiasts. Like most of the Dampieras, it has a suckering
habit and a single plant will cover 2 or 3 square feet in a year under
favourable growing conditions. Full sun and plenty of water seem to be
ideal for best growth in Canberra. The species is also frost hardy. Propagation
is from cutting and late work (as yet unpublished) indicates that use of
Seradix (hormone) on this species promotes rooting. As the plant is becoming
readily available it should be in every garden. Flowering period is mainly
spring and summer but odd flowers may be seen at other times of the year.
Dampiera wellsiana

No Dampiera is more showy than this somewhat unusual member of
the genus. Flowering spikes come from a rosette of greyish leaves on the
ground. A well grown plant in nature may be 12" or 15" across and 9” to
12" high, rounded and covered with heads of blue flowers. The colour is
variable but always considerably paler than the former species. Plants now
in pots in Canberra were propagated both from transplants and cutting
material obtained from removing rosettes from larger plants. Plants are not
thriving although a number have flowered. Natural conditions suggest that
the species requires dry, well drained sand and perhaps winter conditions in
Canberra have kept plants too wet. The species is well worth perservering
with and perhaps future reports may be more encouraging.

Goodenia hederacea (Braidwood form)

This is a very variable species and undoubtedly some forms show much
more horticultural merit than others. The best form that has been found
so far was one growing by the roadside between Braidwood and Nerriga.
It is a tightly growing prostrate ground cover, very floriferous during the
summer months but with some flowers for most of the year. It may be
propagated from cuttings and does well in full sun cascading over a rockery
wall. Flowers are yellow and the species is frost hardy.

Goodenia affinis

A small perennial with densely woolly leaves forming a rosette at the
base, this species is useful to fill the small rock pockets in a rockery. Plants
in Canberra were growh as transplants from West and South Australia
but it would be expected that propagation from seed could be readily
achieved. The yellow to apricot flowers are borne on 4” stems in spring
and summer. No information is yet available as to frost hardiness.

Velleia paradoxa

Velleias belong to the family Goodeniaceae:and are closely related
to the Goodenias. V. paradoxa is a common: species widely spread over
the southern parts of .Australia. Plants in Canberra were propagated from
seed collected Jocally and have been used for 2 ‘years in a massed planting
in the wvisitor’s car park. Yellow flowers are dusployed on 12" stems rising
from "d rosette of radical leaves in Spring ditd Summer. The species could
be useful as a “fill-in” for the rockery.

Issue 37, pp. 13 for a colour plate of a similar species from Queensland.
Velleia trinervis

This species is more floriferous than' the former but has not been used
in the Gardens for sufficient time to prove. its hardiness. Flowers are smaller



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Page 248—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR ROCKERIES March, 1970

than V. paradoxa and slightly more orange in colour with some darker
markings. Plants were obtained as transplants from W.A. but again propa-
gation from seed should be satisfactory.

Leschenaultia tubiflora

This outstanding species rivals the established garden favourites
Leschenaultia biloba and L. formosa. Forming a compact mat, some 9’ to
12" diameter, the species has a wide variety of colour forms ranging from
cream through pinks to red and with many differing bicolour forms. Flowers
are tubular and stand erect above the tight mat of foliage, the bicolour
forms resembling small lighted cigarettes glowing in the sun. Propagation is
easy from cuttings and preliminary indications point to a good tolerance
to frost. Built-up sand supplying perfect drainage would seem essential for
good cultivation. Plants have cnly been in the open garden for several
months but no losses have yet been recordec. This species will develop into
one of the most sought after rockery plants of the future.

Photography by C. D. Walton

Leschenaultia tubiflora

The front cover shows a red form of this plant and the closer up photograph of
the orange and yellow form above will give a clearer idea of how the flowers look. These
colour forms with many other variations are found in Leschenaultia formosa also an ideal
plant for rockeries. The queen of Leschenaultia however is the ‘‘Blue Leschenaultia”, L. biloba.



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Marck, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR ROCKERIES Page 249—Vol. 5

Ptilotus obovatus

Very widely spread over the dry areas of Australia, this shrubby member
of the genus possesses silvery grey foliage and masses of small pink feathery
flowers. It strikes readily from cuttings and seed germinates well. Plants have
been in the open ground in Canberra for nearly 12 months and have grown
well and flowered. They have received some protection from direct frosts
from an overhanging tree so it is not certain whether they are completely
frost hardy here. A well grown plant will form a rounded shrub about 2 ft.
high and flower for most of the year. Page 246 for other species.

(Continued on page 266)

Photography by J. Wrigley

This plant was found growing along the roadside near Kimba, Western
Australia, is typical of the effect that can be obtained with our “Pussy
Tails”, species of Ptilotus. Thirty species of Ptilotus are described with many
illustrated in colour in our No. 31 issue—Vol. 4. A feature of our No. 31
issue is the descriptions and colour plates of species of Hypocallyma keautiful
rockery plants.



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Page 250—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR THE GARDEN March, 1970

WEST AUSTRALIAN PLANTS WITH HORTICULTURAL POTENTIAL

by I. G. Holliday

The species described briefly in this article represent just a very small
sample of the many Western Australian plants which have great potential
as garden subjects but which are rarely seen in cultivation. This is not an
attempt to elevate these species above many of the other western wildflowers
which have not become well known—they are merely some that mainly
happened to be in flower during the author’s trip to Western Australia and
which appealed for various reasons. In many cases there is no evidence
to assess a particular plant’s reliability away from its wild habitat—the aim
is to interest some readers into attempts to obtain and grow plants of
these species if at all possible so that more knowledge can be gained on
their potential as garden plants.

PROTEACEAE

Dryandra

These need no introduction to the native plant enthusiast but some
of the very dwarf species took the eye as potentially fine pot or tub plants
because of their lovely foliage.

Dryandra pteridifolia particularly appealed for its rich green fern-like
leaves arising from a common base. The bush only grows 12”-18” high and
inhabits sandy soils in the south western districts.

Dryandra calophylla appealed for the same reasons although the leaf
shape is quite different and the new leaves a deep purplish-red in colour.
It is found in the Stirling Range.

Both species have yellow flowers although they were not flowering
during this trip.

Grevillea

There are a number of fine yellow flowering grevilleas which, to my
knowledge, have not become well known even among native plant enthusiasts.
Three we saw in the eastern sand plains (rainfall 10”-15") were:-

Grevillea biformis a bushy shrub 8’ high with very narrow needle-like
leaves and numerous heads of bright yellow cigar-shaped flowers which
make a conspicuous show in spring. Individual flowers are about 3" long x
%" in diameter. See page 252 for a colour plate.

Grevillea integrifolia, usually a bush only 3'-6’ high with silvery-grey,
but hairy leaves and clustered heads of narrow, cigar-shaped lemon yellow
flowers on long erect stems arising above the foliage.

Grevillea shuttleworthiana is somewhat similar but the grey-blue leaves
are glabrous and more rounded (cuneate), sometimes heart-shaped (cordate).

Grevillea annulifera is another Grevillea noted for the beauty of
its flowers but seldom seen away from the wild. It is a tall shrub with
very prickly pinnate leaves, spectacular when in flower. The flowers which
appear in large plumes high above the foliage, are creamy coloured
turning reddish-gold as they age. The seed capsules of this Grevillea are
round about the size of a large grape. The plant is found in sandy soils
in the Geraldton-Murchison region.

Petrophile

Fine plants noted for their drumstick like flower heads and seed capsules.

Petrophile media. This plant (which may not have been correctly identified)
was prevalent alongside the Great Eastern Highway from Kalgoorlie to Perth
in the sand plain areas near Tammin. In flower, as we saw it, it was quite



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March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR THE GARDEN Page 251—Vol..5

spectacular. Usually a bush no more than 3’ high by about the same across
it was completely covered with open bright golden flowers with orange:
styles. The narrow leaves were quite prickly and uninteresting and when
not in bloom this species may have little to recommend it as a garden
plant. Seed collected took 3 years to germinate and the seedlings never
grew beyond the cotyledon stage.

Petrophile longifolia. This species was found near Albany and appealed
as a good rock garden plant due to its small rounded tussocky habit and
long, terete leaves. The yellow flowers which cluster at the base of the
leaves in an unusual manner add interest during spring months.

GOODENIACEAE

The Goodeniaceae family produce some of the most colourful dwarf
flowering species in Australia, outstanding among these being Dampiera,
Leschenaultia and Scaevola. See pages 242, 246 and 253.

Dampiera

Named after William Dampier who collected the first species (Dampiera
incana) and was particularly impressed with the wealth of blue flora in
“New Holland”, the Dampiera species are virtually unsurpassed in their
contribution of deep blues and purples (also yellow in Dampiera [uteiflora)
to the Australian bush and roadsides.

Dampiera practically always inhabit sandy soil which gives them a
free root run to produce underground suckers from which new plants are
formed in a chain-like process (in many species). Given a sandy top soil
among rocks in the garden this characteristic can produce plants or runners
in the most unexpected places and which can give a wild, colourful look
to the rock garden during the flowering season (usually late winter-spring).

My experience with a few species has led me to believe that many
Dampiera would be easy to grow if given about 12 inches of sand over
normal soil. Their suckering habit provides a ready-made method of procuring
additional plants. The greatest problem with most western species is obtaining
that first plant. Fe o '

There are about 50 species native to Western Australia many of which
appealed as ideal subjects for the native garden. Unfortunately we were
not able to identify some of these during our travels in that State. One
beauty encountered only a few miles from Kalgoorlie formed a semi-spherical
or -domed bush 3'-4’ in diameter by about 2’ high entirely covered with
sky-blue flowers which contrasted magnificently with the orange coloured
soil in which it was growing.

Some fine species which were identified included:-

Dampiera diversifolia. A completely prostrate, mat forming plant with
small purple-blue flowers and small, bright green, leaves. We found it
clothing road-side verges in sandy soils abutting the Stirling Range but
do not know its full habitat range.

Dampiera luteiflora. An attractive species to 2’ high which differs from
other members of the genus in that its flowers are bright yellow rather than
the characteristic blue or purple. These contrast well with the grey-coloured
foliage which is soft and woolly. It is native to the sand plains extending
from the Goldfields region westwards.

Dampiera wellsiana. The bright blue or purple flowers of this species
are in clustered heads on erect stems which rise from a base of broad,
tufted, but hair-less leaves. A good rock garden plant to 12 ins. high
naturally found in similar localities to Dampiera luteiflora.



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Page 252 -Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR THE GARDEN March, 1970

Dampiera eriocephala. A very similar species to the preceding but
easily distinguished from it by its leaves which are clothed in fine hairs.
It inhabits gravelly soils from Tammin to the Stirling Range.

2 T

Dampiera wellsiana

Unfortunately the photograph
is not quite in focus but it
gives an excellent idea of the
form of this beautiful plant.

Block donated by
N. B. Thompson.

Grevillea biformis
See page 250 for a description of this plant and other yellow flowered Grevillea.

Photography by G. D. Walton



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March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR THE GARDEN Page 253—Vol. 5

Scaevola

There are many fine Scaevola species in Western Australia, two of
which we noted particularly for different reasons.

Scaevola oxyclona. This species inhabits very hot, dry, alkaline soils
in the Goldfields area and further east and for this reason should be
suited to many gardens in South Australia. It is a dense, prickly bush, 2'-3'
high by about the same across, with masses of small, mauve, fan-shaped
flowers during spring.

Scaevola phlebopetala. This was found in the higher rainfall Darling
Range where it formed a lovely prostrate trailing plant which flowered well
even in very shady situations. Flowers are bright purple with a yellow centre
and the fleshy, lobed leaves are covered with soft hairs. It flowers in spring
and through the summer months.

(Continued on page no. 261)

Photography by Ken Newby

Scaevola crassifolia—Thick-leaved Fan Flower

A spreading shrub 2 to 3 feet, flowers being the size shown. It inhabits many miles of
Southern Australian coastline forming spreading bushes veral feet across but rarely more
than 2 feet high. The flowers are typical of the spec in the genus and it is easy to
see why they have become known as the ‘‘Fan Flowers’. Most Scaevola are blue or mauve
and species are found in the bushlands in many areas of temperate Australia.

Scaevola crassifolia has evolved for the rigorous conditions of the coast and its
leaves are thick and relatively large making a good ground cover. Other species are more
delicate, free flowering and easy to grow.



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Page 254<iVol;.$ AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—EPACRIDACEAE March, 1970

SPHENOTOMA (R.Br.) G. Don

A series on Epacridaceae by Betsy R. Jackes (Mackay, Queensland)

Sphenotoma, which is endemic to Western Australia, is very closely
allied to Dracophyllum. The most conspicuous difference is the constriction of
the throat of the corolla-tube by longitudinal folds of tissue which arise
on the base of the lobes. The dorsifixed anthers frequently adhere around

the stigma, which is five pronged, the prongs separating as the flower
matures.

Habitats range from swamps to well-drained mountain slopes. Of the
six species, S. squarrosum, occupies the greatest variety of habitats, being
found in swampy areas as well as on exposed mountainous areas.

Top: Sphenotoma parviflorum Top: Sphenotoma capitatum
Bottom: Sphenotoma gracile Bottom: Sphenotoma squarrosum



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March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—EPACRIDACEAE Page 255—Vol. 5

The flowers of all species are white, flowering occurs in late spring
and early summer.

KEY TO THE SPECIES

A. Leaves on flowering branch closely appressed to the stem ... B
Leaves spreading and extending to base of inflorescence D
B. Corolla-lobes nearly as long as the tube ................ C
Corolla-lobes much shorter than the tube; upper leaves y )
1.5 cm. long 1. S. parviflorum
Leaves straight 1.5-2.5 cm. long 2. S. capitatum
Leaves recurved, less than 1 cm. long . ..3. S. gracile
D. Corolla-lobes much shorter than the tube. Spikes mostly cylindrical. Leaves
usually 2-3 em: 10NF ssvasussinnmismsnss gt . .4. S. squarrosum
Corolla-lobes nearly as long as the tube. Spikes mostly ovate ...
E. Leaves mostly over 5 cm. long, spreading and recurved . 5. S. drummondii
Leaves 1-2.5 cm. long; straight or scarcely recurved -+ spreading ... 6. S. dracophylloides

Sphenotoma drummondii Sphenotoma dracophylloides

NOTES ON THE SPECIES
1. Sphenotoma parviflorum F. Muell.
An annual, this small, slender shrub may grow to 30 cm. high. Long

thin hairs are sometimes found on the leaves, particularly on the margins.
The corolla-tube is often more than twice the length of the corolla-lobes.

2. Sphenotoma capitatum (R.Br.) Lindl.

This species favours moist areas where it attains its maximum height,
sometimes exceeding 1 m. The appressed leaves below the inflorescence are
less than 1 cm. long, whilst the others may be up to 2.5 cm. long and either
spreading or erect. The flowers are in globular or ovate-oblong heads.

3. Sphenotoma gracile (R.Br.) Sweet—See over page.

4. Sphenotoma squarrosum (R.Br.) G. Don

A poorly branched shrub (4 1 m. high) with spreading, recurved leaves.
The young shoots as well as the inflorescence are always somewhat pubescent,
as are the leaf margins if not the entire leaf. The flowers are in dense
cylindrical spikes 2.5 cm. long. The ovary is slightly pubescent.



@@@ 16 @@@



Page 256—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—EPACRIDACEAE March, 1970

5. Sphenotoma drummondii (Benth.) F. Muell.

Favours exposed montane areas where it forms dense cushions. A
robust, much branched shrub with long leaves it may grow to 30 cm. high
with a diameter to 1 m. The large flowers form ovate-oblong spikes often
exceeding 2.5 cm. long.

6. Sphenotoma dracophylloides Sond.

Similar to S. capitatum, but the flowers are larger and the leaves are
spreading to the base of the spike, as well it prefers a drier habitat. Average
height is 60 cm.

Photography by Ken Newby

Sphenotoma gracile

3. Sphenotoma gracile (R.Br.) Sweet

Prefers moist localities within several miles of the coast; although not
confined to these areas. This slender, often straggly shrub usually grows to
about 50 c¢m. but occasionally may reach 1 m. Hairs may occur on both
surfaces of the corolla-tube as well as on the leaves.



@@@ 17 @@@



March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—EPACRIDACEAE Page 2567—Vol. 5

SPHENOTOMA

by Ken Newby

This genus of six species belongs to the family Epacridaceae. It is
confined to Western Australia and is found almost entirely in damp places
on the low-lying plains of the south coastal and the upper slopes of
mountain ranges. In common with Andersonia and Cosmelia, which are
members of the same family, the leaves are stem sheathing in their lower
portion. The petals of the flower are united from 2/3rds to % of their
length to form a corolla. It is usually slightly constricted at the base
and just below where the petals become free and bent out at right angles.
Flowers are all bright white in colour and usually surrounded by fairly rigid
and triangular bracts about the same length as the corolla and may be
brown, greenish or cream in colour. The flowers are usually in fairly dense,
terminal heads and as they are bright in colour, last for a considerable
period, they should be ideal for cut flowers.

Seed has only been observed of Sphenotoma drummondii and it is
small, angular and light yellowish brown in colour. Little or nothing is
known about the germination of seed of this neglected genus or propagation
by cuttings. All species are very ornamental in flower and most have
interesting foliage. As some occur in small pockets of soil in cracks in the
rocks, often in shade, they may be suitable as pot plants.

Sphenotoma capitatum

A single or few stemmed, not much branched, upright or spreading,
slightly open to open, rigid and leafy shrub or undershrub 1 to 2 ft. high
and 6” to 12" across. It is a common species occurring on either coastal
areas of sand which are usually associated with some seepage, or inland
on sand or stony sand; usually amongst other dense or fairly dense low
growing shrubs in 20” to 35” rainfall. Occasionally found growing on
gravel ridges as a smaller plant about 9 high. Leaves are %" to %" long,
%" wide at the base, tapering to a point, upright or recurved, flexible to
fairly rigid, slightly pungent to pungent and dull to medium green in colour.
Flowers are at first basically tubular, %" to 3" long, %" or slightly more
in diameter, opening abruptly into 5 petals which form a flower %" to 3"
diameter, bright white in colour; surrounded the full length of the tube
by brown and narrow bracts, single, sessile, axillary, opening from the base
outwards and forming fairly dense spikes, 2" to 3" long and at the ends
of almost all of the branches during spring.

A very good ornamental species with interesting and attractive foliage
and very attractive flowers. Reasonably hardy, will stand some poor drainage
and should be suited for deep sand or sandy loam. Ideal for cut flowers.

Sphenotoma dracophylloides

A single or few stemmed, little branched, rigid, upright, open, leafy
shrub or undershrub from 1 to 5 ft. high and 6” to 18" across. Found
growing on the plains, usually around or near the base of mountains; on
the plains amongst other low to medium growing scrub or occasionally as an
understory to medium sized trees, on sand or sandy loam in 20" to 25"
rainfall. The leaves are 2" to %" long, " wide at the base, tapering
to a point, covered with very short hairs on the lower portion, recurved,
flexible and light green in colour. Flowers are basically tubular, %" long,
¥%s" diameter, opening abruptly into 5 petals which form a flower %4” diameter,



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Page 258—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—EPACRIDACEAE March, 1970

bright white in colour; surrounded the full length of the tube by cream
triangular bracts, single, sessile, axillary, forming dense and leafy flower
spikes 17 to 2" long at the ends of the few branches during the spring.

A very good ornamental species with attractive foliage and very good
in flower. Fairly hardy, requires reasonable drainage and should be suited
for deep sand or sandy loam. Ideal for cut flowers.

Sphenotoma drummondii

A few stemmed, well branched, mounded, dense, leafy shrub or under-
shrub 6 to 10” nigh and 1 to 4 ft. across. Found growing on the upper
slopes and summits of mountains above 2,000 ft. or more, amongst rocks
or on cliff faces which are often windswept, in loam or sandy loam in 20"
raintall. Leaves are 1” to 2” long, %” wide at the base, tapering to a
point, with fine hairs on the margins, recurved, flexible, crowded on the
last 2 to 3" of the branches and light green in colour. Flowers are basically
tubular, 3" long, %" diameter, opening abruptly into flowers 2" diameter,
bright white in colour; surrounded by triangular bracts which are slightly
longer than the tube and brown in colour; forming dense heads or spikes
which are 1" to 1%” diameter, 1" to 2" long, held 2" to 4" above the
foliage and numerous to very numerous during spring.

An outstanding ornamental species with good habit, good foliage and
very attractive in flower. A hardy species, requires good drainage and
should be suited to shallow or deep sand to loam. May require some shade
and possibly will not stand up to excessive heat. As this species often grows
in small pockets of soil in crevices in the rocks, it may be suitable to use
as a pot plant. Makes excellent cut flowers.

Sphenotoma gracile

A single stemmed, little branched, upright to spreading open, leafy shrub
or undershrub 9" to 18” high and 6" to 12" across. Usually found growing
within a few miles of the coast on deep sand which is often subject to
some seepage and usually amongst other low growing scrub in 30” to 35"
rainfall. Leaves are about %" long, %" wide at the base, tapering to a
point, recurved, flexible and bright green in colour. Flowers are basically
tubular, %" long, %" diameter, opening out abruptly into a flower 2" across,
bright white in colour; surrounded by bracts about the same length as the
tube and green in colour with reddish margins, forming dense heads 1" in
diameter, %" to 1” long and at the ends of branches duringthe spring.

An average ornamental species with average foliage and good but
small flower heads. Fairly hardy, will stand some poor drainage and should
be suvited to deep sand or sandy loam.

Sphenotoma squarrosum

A single stemmed, little branched, upright shrub or undershrub 1 to 4 ft.
high and 6" to 24" across. A coastal or nearby inland species usually found
growing amongst other low growing scrub in damp situations but it may
also be found growing on mountain slopes or summits; often in small amounts
of soil in cracks in the rocks, on sand in 22" to 35" rainfall. The leaves
are %" to 1%"” long, almost %" wide at the base, tapering to a point,
recurved, flexible, usually close together on the last 6” to 8" of the branches
and medium to bright green in colour. Flowers are basically tubular, 3" to 12"
long, %" diameter, opening abruptly to %" diameter, bright white in colour,
surrounded by greenish bracts, single, axillary, sessile, forming fairly dense,
and leafy flower spikes on the last 1 to 3" of the branches during spring.

A very good ornamental species with good foliage and outstanding
in flower. Fairly hardy, will stand poor drainage and should be suited to
deep sandy soils and may be suitable for growing as a pot plant.



@@@ 19 @@@



March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—EPACRIDACEAE Page 259—Vol. 5

STURT PEA IN CONTAINER

Experience in growing Clianthus formosus at 3,000 feet altitude, where frost and snow
are legend by A. Walker, Orange, N.S.W.

| followed the method recommended by D. Sands in the September ‘62
issue of “Australian Plants”. The seed is boiled in water for one minute and
allowing to cool and stand for 48 hours. As predicted the root had begun
to show. The single seeds were then placed in 2 in. Jiffy pots with a sharp
sand, vermiculite medium and grown to the 2 inch stage indoors behind a
window with a northerly aspect. The seed was sown in mid September.

The complete pots were then placed in half x 4 gal. drums containing
a strong bassalt soil made friable with bush sand. No transplanting took
place, as the species is notorious for its difficulty in transplanting at any
stage.

Of three plants grown, one flowered profusely and died. The remaining
two have been over-wintered under half shade conditions, with protection
from frost and snow and a fortnightly foliage application of Aquasol. These
plants are now green, healthy and strong, and are already showing heavy
bud formations for the coming season.

Despite extremely cold winter conditions, the little care afforded these
plants promises to be amply repaid by the satisfaction of successful growing
and flowering at an altitude which is surely well out of the natural environ-
ment of what is certainly one of the gems of our Native Flora.

BOOK REVIEWS

All books reviewed are available by mail from the Editor, 860 Henry Lawson Drive,
Picnic Point, N.S.W. 2213.

A Field Guide to Australian Trees by Ivan Holliday & Ron Hill — Price $3.75 + 20c postage

A 230 pages with a hard cover and a colourful glossy jacket, this new book will be
of interest to those bush lovers who admire trees. The presentation is to illustrate in large
black and white photographs on 110 right hand pages, a specimen tree with line drawings
below giving details of leaves, flowers and fruit as a means of easy identification. Opposite
on the left hand page is a description of the tree in simple terms together with interesting
features and its habitat. At the foot of this page is also briefly mentioned other trees of
similar characteristics and how each may be distinguished. In this way 282 species of
Australian trees spread over a wide range of plant families and habitats, are presented and
illustrated by the 110 black and white photographs.

What Flower is That? by Stirling Macoboy — Price $4.95 + 55c postage

This book is produced to answer the question, ‘“What flower is that?”’ It includes
not just Australian native flowers but most of the flowering plants that could be found
in gardens throughout the world. The presentation is to enable the reader to identify the
flowers, not from obscure botanical features but from full colour plates. To achieve this
there are over 1,000 full colour plates, logically arranged through the 318 pages. Australian
wildflowers are well represented although because of our amazing diversity of plants, it would
need all 1,000 colour plates to give some idea of the breadth of the Australian floral range.
The book is not meant for the specialist however, but for the lover of flowers who notices
the wide range of flowering plants that are grown in Australian gardens and wonders, what
is the name of that plant: What country does it come from and how should it be grown?
For this person the book is the most remarkable I have ever seen.

West Australian Native Plants in Cultivation by A. R. Fairall — Price $10.50 plus 50c postage

This book was reviewed in our last issue. For various reasons it will not now be
available until the end of March. For those who have not already ordered a copy, I
recommend that you send an order to the editor immediately. See page 282.

Australian Wildflowers in Colour by Douglas Baglin and Barbara Mullins — Price $3.95 plus
40c postage
A book aimed at the popular market as an introduction to the Australian flora for
those who are not already familiar with it. A feature of this 112 page book is that each right
hand page carries up to four full colour plates and their descriptions are given opposite
on the left hand page. The flowers are arranged in plant families and in this way 32
families and over one hundred species are illustrated. The photography is superb and there
are a number of plants, principally from Northern Australia, never before illustrated.

Andalusian Flowers and Countryside by Lt. Cdr. C. M. Stocken — Price $3.00 including postage
. A small 180 page book on the wildflowers of Southern Spain, Gibraltor and Morocco,
with a ‘“‘trampers’” description of the countryside and trails.



@@@ 20 @@@



Page 260—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—PROPAGATION March, 1970

A Small Capillary Bed for Seed Germination

D. K. McINTYRE, J. W. WRIGLEY, C. GREEN, Canberra Botanic Gardens, Parks and
Gardens Branch, Department of the Interior, Canberra.
Capillary beds are widely used for seed germination. The principle being,
a constant moisture level is maintained in the vicinity of the seed during
germination by capillary action of water.

Seeds
1 Wal aaro/eo! medicmr

Pucnel' bured 102 Sych ofF5 sand //;ef‘///é .

T R B Waler rises con¥nually
§% o o A / p by Qa/o///er actrorr

oce 5008 N /)T T T T/
P

FIG. 1—Principle of Capillary Bed

Constanf woler lgye/

/
-

Capillary beds have certain advantages in the germination of seeds.
The seeds are always well aerated and moist (not over or under watered).
Experience with the large scale use of this method at the Canberra Botanic
Gardens has shown that damping off at the young seedling stage has been
almost eliminated.

A simple capillary bed can be made by using a small tray, e.g. a deep
baking dish, filled with washed coarse sand (%”-%" dia.). The dish is then
abeut half filled with water. Seeds are sown in a punnet filled with a
freely draining medium (a 50/50 mixture of washed river sand and perlite
is recommended). The punnets should have holes in the bottom to allow
the water to enter freely.

The punnets are buried in the coarse sand (but above the water level).
Ensure the water rises to the top of the punnet. If the capillary is broken
this is easily noticed because the top will quickly dry out.

A constant water level can be maintained by filling a bottle or some
other suitable container with water and inverting it with the top of the
bottle at the required water level.

Supplementary bottom heat can be added as a useful modification, by
placing the capillary tray on top of a completely enclosed box with a
galvanised iron top and heated by one (or more) electric light bulbs. The
size and number of light bulbs used will depend on the size of the tray
being used.

By this means an optimum temperature of 70-75°F can be maintained
in the region of the germinating seeds. The temperature in the sand bed
may be up to 10°F higher than this.

The heating box is not necessary but it will greatly speed up germination
in cold areas and during the winter.

This capillary bed will give excellent results in the germination of most
seeds. It is suggested to keep it in the light to prevent seedlings etiolating.



@@@ 21 @@@



March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—PROPAGATION Page 2€1—Vol. 5

- - - - - Inverteo botle Filled with woler

Su/:/;a A for bobe

Seeds

Ponnel filled witn
Jvfw//w///( n send
obove woles [eve/

oy or oish

Woler /evel olalermacd

é/for//‘/on of rim of
peck of rthe boitle

Washed Coarse
sond/

Yectre LpAt bu's (N’ hod
7o

— fnc/osed/ Box

o

FIG. 2—Diagram of capillary bed showing constant water level device, and a heated box
to keep temperature constant for rapid seed germination during winter.

SOME W.A. PLANTS WITH HORTICULTURAL POTENTIAL—cont. from page 250
Some plants from the higher rainfall districts (20"’ to over 40")

Beaufortia heterophylla (Beaufortia cyrtodonta). A dwarf shrub common
in clearings in the Stirling Range where it develops to a neat 2’ bush of very
handsome appearance when in flower in October. The deep red flowers
appear in staminal bundles along the full length of each branchlet in a
showy display. Leaves are tiny and linear. Indications are that this is not
an easy species to grow.

Hibbertia

There are over 60 Hibbertia species indigenous to Western Australia,
most of which are worthy of garden culture for their wealth of bright yellow
or orange, open-petalled flowers in spring months. They are particularly
common in the gravelly laterite or granite soils of the Darling Range where
many fine species, including the following, can be found.

Hibbertia lasiopus. This lovely prostrate plant reminds one of the eastern
species Hibbertia scandens (syn. volubilis) except that the large, yellow flowers
are more numerous, the bush much smaller and the leaves are hairy. An
ideal rock garden plant.

Hibbertia miniata. A rare species native to the Darling Range north
of Perth which is noted for its dark orange black-centred flowers. It is a
small bush under 12” high with soft grey leaves which contrast well with
the flowers.

Hibbertia montana and Hibbertia montana var. major. These two similar
species (the latter has much larger flowers) are fairly common in rocky
areas of the Darling Range. The flowers which vary from creamy-yellow to
a bright cadmium yellow are displayed prominently on erect stems 12”-30”

high.



@@@ 22 @@@



Page 262 -Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR THE GARDEN March, 1970

PLANTS OF THE LILY FAMILY

Johnsonia lupulina. An interesting member of the lily family found in
the wetter areas near Albany in the south west. A small plant with rush-like
leaves @nd drooping spikes of flowers hidden by over-lapping, pale pink
scales. Another fine rock garden plant. See page 245 for colour plate.

Dasypogon bromeliaefolius. Another member of the lily family found in
similar localities to the preceding species. This is also a rush-like bush but
the flowers are borne on tall erect stems like white drumsticks prominent
above the foliage.

Some Plants from the Lower Rainfall Areas (usually under 15")

Cyanostegia angustifolia. This, with the following species, is one of
the most commonly encountered plants along the roadsides of the Eastern
Goldfields and also between Wongan Hills and Mullewa, north of Perth,
and it is therefore rather surprising that neither species has gained much
attention from the native plant grower. Cyanostegia angustifolia can be
seen in massed displays in the wild which reveal its potential for similar
plantings in cultivation. It is usually a dense bush 3'-5’ high with open,
papery flowers, mauve to violet in colour with deep yellow anthers and
which completely cover the bush. See page 284 for colour plate.

There are four species of Cyanostegia, each having purplish flowers
which appear in spring and early summer.

Keraudrenia integrifolia. This is a very common plant in the sandy
gravelly soils of the south west and is very prevalent in open areas along
railways and in gravel pits. A small shrub to 4’ high it has small, narrowly
oblong leaves and panicles of small purple-violet flowers which clothe the
bush from August to October.

Eremophila calorhabdos. A medium-sized shrub of outstanding merit as a
structural plant in the native garden. The bush produces many vertical branches
sometimes 8 or more high which are clothed in red to pink tubular flowers
over a long period. As the branches grow the flowers are continually
produced at each node along the new growth. The leaves are small and
serrated, shiny dark green with a white reverse.

This plant can be found on red, alkaline, loamy soils east and south
of Norseman in association with mainly the mallee eucalypts encountered
in these areas.

It appears to be fairly adaptable under garden conditions but results
are best achieved in a fairly friable alkaline loam or clay soil in full sun
such as much of South Australia’s wheat country and where annual rainfall
is about 10”-17”. Quite large cuttings strike fairly easily.

Eremophila densifolia. Found growing near Ravensthorpe in red alkaline
soil this appealed as a plant which should adapt to most South Australian
conditions. Only a small bush to 3’ high it stood out as being exceptionally
floriferous among the Eremophila genus, the small, mauve, flowers appearing
abundantly over the entire bush.

Hemiphora elderi. An interesting dwarf shrub from the low rainfall areas
between Menzies and Southern Cross. It grows to only about 18" high
with spiky branchlets covered with thick felted grey leaves. The loose, woolly,
tubular flowers occur in terminal racemes of a vivid crimson.

Wehlia coarctata. Another low rainfall species which inhabits the lighter
soils of the Goldfields and surrounding districts. Growing no more than 2’
high it is a twiggy shrub with tiny leaves and profuse terminal clusters of
vivid pink starry flowers with yellow anthers. It closely resembles the Calythrix
genus to which Wehlia is related.



@@@ 23 @@@



March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—MYRTACEAE Page 263—Vol. 5

EUCALYPTS IN COLD COUNTRIES

Based on catalogue and report from Sandhurst Nurseries, Surrey, England.

All the well-known, old-established, collections of Eucalyptus in this
country are in the milder Western countries. Here in the South-East we get
20-25 degrees of frost several times in winter, alternating with rain and
cold winds. Under these conditions, E. gunnii, E. glaucescens, E. niphophila,
E. perriniana and E. de beuzevillei all make good specimens, although some
wind-shelter may be necessary the first winter after planting. E. glaucescens
makes a particularly attractive tree, with a better habit than E. gunnii, which
tends to shoot up fast and thin, especially on heavy soils, and often has
to be pruned before it is blown out of the ground. E. perriniana is the only
Eucalyptus that will tolerate light shade here. E. vernicosa would be hardy.

After these come several species that will survive all but our worst
winters provided they have some protection from North and East winds in
winter—the sort of protection that most gardens have, with other trees
and shrubs; but they would not survive in the middle of a flat open field.
These include E. mitchelliana, E. stellulata, E. johnstoni, E. aggregata, E.
parvifolia, E. kybeanensis, and some forms of E. pauciflora and E. viminalis.
E. pauciflora will stand all the frost we get, but spring gales may damage it.
E. mitchelliana grows like E. pauciflora nana, no larger than a shrub, but a
most attractive one. E. stellulata is frost-hardy but sensitive to East winds.
E. johnstoni is the hardiest of the taller species, and although one can see
occasional 60 ft. specimens of E. gunnii in this area, few gums exceed 30-40 ft.
without having their tops blown out. E. viminalis from Rose Tiers, Tasmania,
stood 25 degrees of frost in mid-winter, but succumbed to an early autumn
frost a few years later. This makes a beautiful tree as it sometimes turns a
fine coppery colour for nine months of the vear, but only in some gardens,
not all. Does it do this in Australia? | find E. dalrympleana slightly less hardy
than this Tasmanian E. viminalis, and apt to be killed once every 10 years.
E. kybeanensis seems very hardy, but so slow—2 ft. in 3 years! E. cordata,
E. cinerea, E. simmondsii, E. urnigera are all too tender here (E. urnigera
glauca is hardy) but can be grown nearer the South coast. E. rubida and
E. ovata are very tender. Much of our trouble is lack of a hot summer. This
year we have had a good summer followed by a dry autumn, and |
doubt whether any gums will be damaged this winter, as their young stems
have ripened better. E. acaciaeformis and E. nicholi are hardy, given a good
summer, but only form shrubs here. Provenance is of course very important
with some. E. niphophila, E. mitchelliana, E. viminalis, E. johnstoni, E. pauciflora
vary in hardiness more than others, and Tasmanian forms are preferable to
mainland forms, where species occur in both.

Flowering

E. gunnii, E. glaucescens, E. niphophila, E. perriniana flower regularly
here (usually alternate years) but seed is very poor and erratic. The others
form buds, but these rot during winter, although they flower better further
South and West.

One cannot plant out Eucalypts the same year that they are raised here.
We pot them up in 3" soft polythene pots in June/July for selling and
planting 1%-2 ft. high the following April/May. This means growing them
slower than they might be grown, and harder. If planted out too soft,
they grow too fast (6-8 ft. per year on heavy soils) and become top-heavy
and frost tender.



@@@ 24 @@@



Page 264—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—MYRTACEAE March, 1970

Eucalyptus have become very popular during the past few years, now that
more species are available from nurseries, but many gardeners still think
of E. gunnii as the only hardy one, and we have to grow more of this
than any other (12,000 this year). But as they become better known, more
people are planting E. glaucescens and the Snow Gums.

The following is reprinted from the catalogue of The Sandhurst Nurseries,
Surrey, England:

Planting and Cultivation. The ideal position for Eucalyptus is in full sun,
and if possible with some shelter from the worst north-east winds in winter.
Before planting dig the soil deeply. Eucalyptus are not fussy about the type of soil,
but there should be reasonable surface drainage. Immediately on receipt of your
plants, before removing the pots, water them. Remove the pots without letting
the soil fall off the roots; plant about 1% inches deeper than the plants are in
their pots; tread in, give a short stake, and water again. Plants should be kept
watered for the first month or two after planting, but no water is required when
established. Never give stakes more than 3 ft. high as it only encourages legginess.
If plants shoot up too fast and become top-heavy, prune hard in early March
to make the plants bushier. Mixing in some peat (or peat and sand in heavy
soils), is a help, but avoid manures or mulches. Protection should not be necessary
even during the first winter but if that is an exceptionally severe winter, a sack
supported on three sticks to form an L-shaped screen on the windy side is a help.

Hardiness. Of those listed in Part 1, all of which should be suitable for the
Home Counties, the following have stood more than 25 degrees of frost: E. de
beuzevillei, E. glaucescens, E. gunnii, E. johnstoni, E. kybeanensis, E. niphophila,
E. pauciflora, E. perriniana, E. stellulata (E. gunnii and E. niphophila have
stood 35 degrees of frost). The others in Part 1 have all stood more than 18-20
degrees of frost.

In Part 2, some species have a fair degree of hardiness (e.g. E. cinerea,
E. cordata and E. simmondsii have all stood 15 degrees of frost), but although
they may grow satisfactorily for a few years in the London area, they are
not hardy enough for a permanent place in gardens except in the milder counties.
Some in this group are very fast and make excellent temporary filling-in plants
(obliqua once grew 20 ft. in two years here), while species such as E. globulus
and E. bicostata are too tender for all but the mildest gardens. As a general
rule all Eucalyptus will stand more frost if sheltered from cold winds in winter.

Foliage. Eucalyptus have basically two types of foliage, the juvenile and the
adult. Juvenile leaves are usually short, wide and stalkless. Adult leaves are
longer, narrower and with a leaf-stalk. Some species have a prolonged intermediate
stage. Some develop adult foliage during the first summer, while others may stay
three or four years in the juvenile stage.

Flowers. All the hardier species have sweetly scented white flowers, in some
species these are produced 2-3 years after pruning.

The English names given below are the colloquial Australian names. Sizes
refer to growth in this country, not in Australia.

PART 1. The Hardier Species. These are generally suitable for planting in the

Home Counties, although a few (E. delegatensis, E. acaciaeformis, E. nicholi,

. nitens) require sheltered position.

. acaciaeformis. Wattle-leaved Peppermint. Very narrow leaves, large shrub or
small tree.

. aggregata. Black Gum. Medium-sized tree. Adult leaves green, oval, 4 in. x ¥ in.
. bridgesiana (stuartiana). But But. Glaucous, tall thin tree.

. de beuzevillei. Giant Snow Gum. Related to pauciflora and niphophila but
larger and stouter, with larger foliage. Bark peels in patches on thin branches,
in huge long strips on thick trunks. Young wood white. The largest of the
Snow Gum group.

E. coccifera. Mt. Wellington Peppermint. A graceful large shrub or small tree
up to 12-15 ft., slow-growing, with small silvery willow-like leaves.

E. dalrympleana. Broad-leaved Kindlingbark. Round glaucous juvenile leaves. Adult
leaves up to 10 in. x 2 in. A tall stately tree, the bark peeling in patches like
a plane tree, often a mixture of cream, pink and silver-grey. After a hot
summer the foliage may also acquire pinkish or lilac tints. Bark and foliage
fragrant.

oy MM



@@@ 25 @@@



Supplement to March, 1970 issue of “Australian Plants” Page 1

THE ENDEMIC FLORA OF TASMANIA

PART III

Lord Talbot de Malahide, Malahide Castle, Co. Dublin, Ireland, is hoping
to publish this book in 1970 and has chosen the following 41 plants for
inclusion in it.

He would be glad to hear of the experiences of anybody who has
grown any of them, covering in particular the following points:

Q)]
(2)
(©)

(4)
(5)

Whether dead or still alive, size;

Whether grown outside or under glass;

Origin, i.e. seed, cutting, graft, layer, wild plant, collected in the
wild, obtained by purchase or by exchange;

Cause of death, length of survival;

Recommended treatment as regards soil, drainage, wind shelter,

shade.

Lord Talbot would also be glad to hear from anybody with significant
information to supplement or modify that given in the Appendix to Part Il

Acaena montana Hook. f.

Aciphylla procumbens (F. Muell.) Benth.
Actinotus moorei Rodw.

Agastachys odorata R.Br.

Anemone crassifolia Hook.

Angianthus eriocephalus Benth.
Archeria comberi Melville

Archeria serpyllifolia Hook. f.
Bellendena montana R.Br.

Cyathodes abietina R.Br.

Dacrydium franklinii Hook. f.
Drapetes tasmanica Hook. f.

Epacris corymbiflora Hook. f.

Epacris exserta R.Br.

Epacris myrtifolia Labill.

Epacris virgata Hook. f.

Eucalyptus coccifera Hook. f.
Eucalyptus linearis Dehn.

Eucalyptus urnigera Hook. f.

Forstera bellidifolia Hook. f.
Gaultheria hispida R.Br.

Helichrysum costatifructum R. V. Smith
Helichrysum reticulatum (Labill.) Less.
Hibbertia hirsuta (Hook.) Benth.
Ixodia angusta (N. A. Wakefield) N. T. Burbidge
Lomatia tinctoria R.Br.

Milligania densiflora Hook. f.

Orites acicularis R.Br.

Orites milliganii Meisn. in Hook.
Pentachondra ericifolia Hook. f.
Pernettya tasmanica Hook. f.

Pimelea pygmaea F. Muell.
Ranunculus pascuinus (Hook. f.) Melville



@@@ 26 @@@



Page 2 Supplement to March, 1970 issue of “Australian Plants”

Ranunculus setaceus Rodw.

Richea scoparia Hook. f.

Rubus gunnianus Hook.

Spyridium gunnii (Hook. f.) Benth.

Spyridium serpyllaceum (Reissek & F. Muell.) F. Muell.
Tetracarpaea tasmanica Hook. f.

Westringia angustifolia R.Br.

Westringia rubiifolia R.Br.

Orders may be placed by filling in the form below

THE ENDEMIC FLORA
OF
TASMANIA

A Monograph in 5 or more parts, which together will present over two
hundred colour plates depicting the plants native to Tasmania alone, drawn
from life by the artist
MARGARET STONES
with botanical and ecological text by
WINIFRED M. CURTIS

and an Appendix on cultivation by
LORD TALBOT DE MALAHIDE
Format: 16” x 12”, Full linen boards. 24 plates in 6-colour litho offset,
with 64 pp. of text.
Price per part so far published v o« e ... $50.00 Aust.

ORDER FORM

To THE EDITOR—SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS
860 Henry Lawson Drive, Picnic Point, N.S.W. AUST. 2213

Please supply the following for which | enclose the sum of ... including
80c per copy to cover postage.

Price in  Price in Price in

Great Britain  Australia  U.S.A.

1. THE ENDEMIC FLORA OF TASMANIA, Part |

£15.150 A.$50.00 U.S.$45.00
2. THE ENDEMIC FLORA OF TASMANIA, Part I

$15.15.0 A.$50.00 U.S.$45.00

3. Unbound Sets of the Plates of Part | ... £ 6. 6.0 A.$20.00 U.S.$18.00
4. Unbound Sets of the Plates of Part Il ... £ 6. 6.0 A.$20.00 U.S.$18.00
Name

Address



@@@ 27 @@@



Supplement to March, 1970 issue of “Australian Plants” Page 3

Some Extracts from Reviews . . .
. With the publication of the first part of THE ENDEMIC FLORA

OF TASMANIA . . . one of the greatest of our contemporary botanical
artists is putting Tasmania again on the map of botanical illustration in no
mean way. Margaret Stones’ illustrations, Winifred Curtis’ knowledgeable

text, the Ariel Press’ artistry in layout and design and the efforts of one
of the master colour printers of Europe combined, have resulted in a flower
book of a quality and splendour which is almost unthought of today . .
Books like this become exceptional. The times when patronage for sumptuous
illustrated botanical folios was relatively easy to find are over. The cost of
procucing a really superior work of this kind has grown prohibitive. Crafts-
manship and dedication are rare. The publication of this splendid first part
of THE ENDEMIC FLORA OF TASMANIA is therefore a source of joy to
botanist and bibliophile alike.

Taxon

It is rare indeed that fortune brings together an outstanding botanical
artist, a munificent patron, and an expert botanist to work together on a
single project. To such a lucky chain of events we owe the publication of
this delightful volume . . . Margaret Stones has portrayed a selection of
thirty-eight species with great charm and skill: the meticulous accuracy
of the drawings and the excellent colour rendering add to the pleasure of
any plant lover who turns the pages, be he botanist or layman. Dr. Winifred
Curtis, from her wide experience of the flora, with short descriptions puts
the plants into the context of their native habitats and so completes a happy
collaboration . . . It is greatly to be hoped that Lord Talbot will be able to
continue with this project and attain his ambition to portray all of the
Tasmanian endemics.

The Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society

. . . The last book on the island’s flora is some 60 years old, so a new
record is valuable to begin with; the dangers of extinction make such an
impeccable combination of art and botanical accuracy particularly valuable.
Apart from these considerations, the volume is a splendid example of the
“great flower book” with perfectly produced plates on good paper and
typographical treatment to match.

Country Life

. . . My enthusiastic review of Part | of this sumptuous work in the
January/February, 1968, issue of Garden Journal, gives considerable back-
ground information that needs not be repeated here. Suffice it to say that
Part Il is as attractive as Part |, if not more so. The map of Tasmania that
ornaments the end-papers has been redrawn; it is now more accurate and
aesthetically pleasing. As in Part |, the splendid plates of Part Il illustrate
the appearance of the flowers and the general habit of the plant so accurately,
yet so artistically, that any intelligent person could recognize them easily.
The reaclable and accurate descriptions by Winifred Curtis emphasize the
more important features of each species and thereby complement and
reinforce the beautiful paintings by Margaret Stones.

. . . These magnificent books have a great aesthetic appeal, in addition
to their didactic usefulness to botanists and horticulturists; | would predict
that the demand for them will be far beyond that originally planned.

The New York Botanical Garden Journal



@@@ 28 @@@



Page 4 Supplement to March, 1970 issue of “Australian Plants”

At the supreme pinnacle of this kind of publication is “The
Endemic Flora of Tasmania” Part Il (Ariel Press). For most Australians the
charm of the book largely derives from Margaret Stones’ botanical paintings
. . . There is perhaps no finer nor more exacting botanical artist anywhere
in the world.

Lord Talbot’s contribution has added a domestic dimension to a
volume that is almost inhumanly beautiful. It is fundamental, of course, to
any collection of Australian botanical literature.

Australian Book Review

. For the keen plantsman and lover of great books alike Part Il is

every bit as exciting as its predecessor. It contains 24 quarto plates illustrating

a further 41 specimens, and each plate—through the beautifully detailed

artistry of Miss Margaret Stones—could be framed and hung for its own

merit. Lord Talbot has added a valuable appendix on the cultivation of all

the plants illustrated in the first two parts. | hope . . . this will stimulate

others to contribute their findings on these plants so that a greater
understanding of them can be achieved.

Gardeners Chronicle

’ This beautifully produced volume is an important addition to
the record of Tasmania’s endemic species.
Times Literary Suppl=ment

. Miss Stones’s paintings maintain the outstanding quality of the
first volume. Dr. Curtis’s botanical descriptions and notes compiled from
her wide knowledge of the Tasmanian flora ore often fuller than in Part |
and contain additional fascinating historical, ecological and distributional
details.

. . . Artist, botanist and patron must be congratulated on their enthusiasm
and persistence. We now eagerly await the promised third and fourth parts.

Journal of the Royal Horticultural Society

. . . The Endemic Flora of Tasmania . . . was published in folio and
superby printed by the Ariel Press. Part Il of this magnificent book is now
ready . . . apart from the fact that every botanist will want and need a

copy, this is very much a book for the bibliophile, a collector’s piece when
complete.
lllustrated London News

‘“AUSTRALIAN PLANTS”

The periodical “Australian Plants” is produced quarterly on a non-
profit-making basis with honorary officers. As man extends his domain in the
thrust for survival, our areas of natural vegetation, already invaded by
introduced weeds and grazed by animals is shrinking alarmingly. Methods
of its survival include the replanting and protection of reservations. To do this
successfully we must first study and understand the requirements of our flora.
The periodical is devoted to this aim. Special emphasis is placed on the
preservation and development of the best forms of species as horticultural
subjects and the encouragement of the home gardener and parks superin-
tendent to propagate and cultivate our wildflowers.

Available for an annual subscription of $1.20 Aust. (plus 40c postage

if overseas), from the Editor, 860 Henry Lawson Drive, Picnic Point, N.S.W.,
2213, Australia.



@@@ 29 @@@



March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—MYRTACEAE Page 265—Vol. 5

E.

delegatensis (gigantea). Gum-top Stringybark Ash. Tall grower with large oval

leaves which are often tinted pink or bronze after a hot summer. Rather
tender for the East of England, but so attractive that it is worth trying as a
temporary “filling-in” plant. Fast.

. glaucescens. Tingiringi Gum. A lovely hardy small tree of good habit with

silvery scented leaves, oval or slightly sickle-shaped, and a peeling bark.
Slightly shorter than gunnii and bushier.

. gunnii. Cider Gum. The best known of all. A very handsome and easily

grown tree from Tasmania which has stood 35 degrees of frost here. Fast-
growing while young, with beautiful blue-grey foliage which keeps a clean
fresh appearance. The best for cut foliage as it stands pruning well.

. johnstoni (subcrenulata). Johnston’s Gum. Juvenile leaves round, adult leaves

slightly sickle-shaped, glossy green, fragrant. Tall, narrow and dense. Lovely
peeling orange trunk when established.

. kybeanensis. Kybean Mallee Ash. The only hardy “Mallee”. A sub-shrub up

to 6 ft., forming a tuberous rootstock with erect thin green stems and dark
green leaves. Slow.

. mitchelliana. Weeping Sally. Small tree or large shrub, the ends of the branches

weeping. Foliage willow-like, slightly sickle-shaped. Peeling white trunk.
Graceful and rare.

. nicholi. Nichol’s Willow-leaved Peppermint. Very narrow foliage tinged purple

in spring.

E. niphophila. Snow Gum. The famous Snow Gum is probably the hardiest

of all, and suitable even for very exposed sites. Slower than most species,
it forms a large shrub or small tree, as wide as it is high, usually with
several stems. Large thick grey-green leaves, slightly sickle-shaped, which
are pinkish or copper-coloured as they start growing in Spring. Bark peels
similarly to E. de beuzevillei, the dark grey old bark contrasting with the
silvery white new wood.

. nitens. Silver Top. Long glaucous adult leaves, scented stems. Stands a fair

amount of frost, but not much wind.

E. parvifolia. Small-leaved Gum. Small dark grey-green leaves, dark grey trunk.

Narrow, dense and comparatively slow.

. pauciflora. Cabbage Gum; Snow Gum. Rather variable. Leaves 4-9 in. long,

thick, slightly sickle-shaped. Peeling bark gives a clean white trunk. Hardy.
Forms a more-or-less round-headed tree.

. pauciflora nana. Wolgan Snow Gum. A shrubby version of the above, good

for small gardens. Leaves 6-8 in. x % in., slightly more sickle-shaped than
the type.

. perriniana. Round-leaved Snow Gum. Another species suitable for small gardens,

growing to about 15 ft. x 4 ft. Juvenile leaves round, blue, with the stem
growing through the centre of the leaf. Young foliage at first purplish. Adult
leaves long, narrow, sickle-shaped. Fragrant. The only species to grow well
in light shade. Very hardy.

E. stellulata. Black Sally. Small spreading tree or large shrub. Spear-shaped adult

leaves, light green at first, becoming glaucous. Peeling bark.

E. viminalis. Ribbon Gum. Very fast and tall. Long, narrow, slightly sickle-shaped

adult leaves, which often turn a lovely coppery colour on the sides exposed
to the sun, although this varies with the weather and time of year. Scented.
Trunk peels in long ribbons.

PART 2. Some of the following are moderately hardy, but are mainly suited

to

mEmE T EmnED W b

the South and West (see introduction).

bicostata. Eurabbie. Tall. Adult leaves up to 2 ft. long.

cinerea. Argyle Apple. Silver-blue permanently juvenile leaves. Shrubby.
Moderately hardy.

cordata. Heart-shaped Silver Gum. Stem-clasping silver leaves. Moderately
hardy, stands pruning.

. cordieri. Mealy Bundy. Silvery, medium grower.

cypellocarpa (goniocalyx). Spotted Mountain Gum. Narrow leaves, scented.
deanii. Dean’s Gum. Long narrow leaves.

. globulus. Tasmanian Blue Gum. Fast, tender.

. huberiana. Rough-barked Ribbon Gum. Narrower leaves than viminalis.

. kitsoniana. Bog Gum. Small tree, large glossy green leaves. Moderately hardy.
. leucoxylon. White Ironbark. Flowers vary from red to pink or white.

. macarthurd. Paddy’s River Box: Camden Woollybutt. Dense habit, scented.
. neglecta. Round-leaved Omeo Gum. Small-leaved shrubby soecies.

. nova-anglica. New England Peppermint. Glaucous juvenile leaves.

. obliqua. Messmate. Very tall, varies in hardiness. Huge intermediate leaves.



@@@ 30 @@@



Page 266—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR ROCKERIES March, 1970

E. ovata, Swamp Gum. Medium-sized tree, green leaves.

E. pulverulenta. Silver-leaved Mountain Gum. Small tree with large glaucous
stem-clasping adult leaves. Moderately hardy, attractive.

E. radiata. Grey Peppermint. Fragrant, pale green, bushy.

E. regnans. Giant Gum. Tallest tree in the world. Green.

E. resinifera, Red Mahogany. Tall, spreading.

E. rubida. Candlebark Gum. Related to dalrympleana but smaller and more
brightly coloured in all its parts.

E. sieberiana. Mountain Ash. Immense tree. Narrow leaves.

E. simmondsii. Simmond’s Peppermint. Medium-sized tree, moderately hardy.
Narrow adult leaves, open habit.

E. urnigera. Urn-fruited Gum. Fragrant green leaves. Bushy tree.

(Hybrids. Various hybrids are usually available, but stocks vary. Details on request).

WILDFLOWERS FOR ROCKERIES—cont. from page 249
Frankenia pauciflora

This is a summer flowering prostrate ground cover of considerable merit.
With small pink flowers covering the plant in the warmer months, the species
enjoys a full sun situation. Foliage is slightly grey and even when not in
flower the plant has a handsome appearance. Propagation is easy from
cuttings or from plant division as the species roots as it spreads. It is hardy
to both frost and drought and may be found bordering salt flats in South
and West Australia. If used in mass displays, spacing should be at 18"
centres or perhaps more distant in areas with a faster growth rate than
Canberra.

Brachycome rigidula

This small, blue daisy from the A.C.T. makes a compact plant about
9 high when grown in full sun. It may be propagated from seed and
will flower in its first year. Either massed at 9 centres or as individual plants,
the species makes a good display during the summer months. It is frost hardy
and tolerates relatively dry conditions. Plants in Canberra have been subject
to green aphis attack, but, this may be controlled with the usual insecticides.

Helichrysum apiculatum

This species is very variable and differing forms occur throughout the
Continent. A prostrate form collected by Adelaide Botanic Gardens staff
is now well established in Canberra and is proving to be a valuable and
showy ground cover. Flowers are golden yellow and well displayed in dense
heads during spring and summer. This form is frost hardy and is readily
propagated from cuttings. Growing quickly, plants have formed a tight
mat, 2° 6" in diameter in the first year and may be used either as a ground
cover or tumbling over rock walls.

Olearia teretifolia

The minute dark green leaves give this shrub the appearance of a
conifer. However, in Spring when it bursts into white daisy flowers the
appearance is transformed. In Canberra, a compact form of the species is
being grown which may be propagated from cutting. The slow rate of
growth makes the plant a worthwhile rockery subject as after 18 months
well grown plants make a rounded shrub of 12 high. When fully grown
it will reach 2'6”-3" in a full sun position. Unlike many Olearias it does
not become woody at the base on ageing.

Prostanthera saxicola var. montana
This is one of the few Prostantheras that can be regarded as a ground
cover. Plants at Canberra are about 18 months old and in this time have



@@@ 31 @@@



March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR ROCKERIES Page 267—Vol. 5

spread to about 2 ft. across with a height of about 6”. Flowers are large,
white with dark blue markings and borne in large numbers over the summer
months. Propagation is from cuttings and the species is frost hardy. Our
plants were collected in the ranges to the west of the A.C.T.

Hemiandra pungens var. glabra

Some Sydney growers have this plant in successful cultivation and
several plants are being grown in Canberra. It is a showy although somewhat
sparse prostrate ground cover with large, pale mauve labiate flowers produced
in early summer. Propagation is from cutting and although indications are
that the species is frost hardy, further information is required to make
this certain. Those plants being grown in large containers are doing well
but difficulty is being experienced in establishing the species in the open
garden. Some losses have been attributed to root rot attack.

Pityrodia axillaris

Little is known of the performance of this plant in cultivation but it
has been included because of its outstanding flower colour, magenta, and
the contrast between flower and foliage. The latter being silver-grey. Our
plants are being grown in containers until sufficient material is available
to plant in the open garden. Propagation is from cutting. Plants have flowered
at about 12" but ultimate height could be expected to be about 2 ft.

See colour plate page 284. Colour is poor but style of plant is shown.

Pityrodia dilatata

As for the previous species, little can be said for its performance in
Canberra but much can be said for its potential. Flowers of this species
are orange-red and are borne for many months during spring and summer.
Foliage is pale green and slightly glaucous and the container grown plants
are forming a more compact bush than the former species. Many cuttings
have been taken from these bushes which were originally grown from
cuttings collected in W.A. It is hoped then in 1 or 2 years more information
will be available concerning its performance in the garden.

Veronica gracilis

Under good, soil conditions, this plant will cover very quickly and
may have to be checked. However, it is worth growing for its pale blue
flowers, held on leafy stems about 6” to 9" high. The main flowering period
is in the late spring and early summer. Plants in Canberra were collected
from the South-East of South Australia and were propagated from cuttings.
The species withstands frosts and appears to require full sun for best
flowering. It is suggested as a vegetative “mulch” amongst other shrubs.
Stylidium uniflorum, S. piliferum, S. breviscapum (Trigger Plants)

Several species of Stylidium were collected as transplants and 3 or 4
as cuttings from W.A. Of those that have succeeded the above 3 species
are showing promise as unique garden subjects. S. uniflorum is a small
tufted plant forming 4” high cushions 6” to 12" across. Salmon-pink flowers
are borne in profusion in late Spring. The species would make an ideal
pot plant or a rockery plant for a dry location. S. piliferum is a member
of the rosetted group and forms a small, tight rosette of leaves about 1" long.
The cream flowers, however, are borne on a 9”-12” stem and are well
displayed. S. breviscapum is a prostrate white flowered creeping member
of the genus. All three species were collected as transplants and have since
flowered as potted specimens. Some plants of S. uniflorum are being used
in the open garden but little is yet known of their cultivation or frost hardiness.



@@@ 32 @@@



Page 268—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR ROCKERIES March, 1970

Mimulus repens

This prostrate, rooting perennial should prove an ideal ground cover for
a wet situation. Flowers are yellow and mauve and growth rate seems
moderately fast. The plant may be propagated from cuttings or by root
division but no information is yet available as to frost hardiness. It occurs
near creeks and swamps in many parts of Australia.
Boronia scabra

Much more should be known of this plant’s performance in the garden
before a recommendation may be made. However indications are that it is
a top class Boronia. Cuttings were collected near Cape Le Grand in W.A.
and plants from these have flowered in containers. Growth is stiff and erect,
flower colour pink and overall height in nature is only about 12”. Flowers
are crowded towards the ends of branches in spring and early summer.
Halgania cyanea

It is surprising that the Halganias are not used more in cultivation.
H. cyanea is perhaps the commonest and most widespread of the genus but
is rarely seen in gardens. It forms a compact rounded shrub about 12” high
with intense blue flowers for long periods of the year. Propagation is from
cuttings and present indications are that it is frost hardy. A well drained
full sun position is suggested by its natural habitat.

Cheiranthera cyanea (syn. C. linearis)

This species has been grown successfully for a number of years in
Canberra. It may be propagated from cuttings or seed quite readily although
seed may take 8 or 9 weeks to germinate. It is a small, loose shrub about
18" high with fine leaves and dark blue flowers. The 1”-1%2" diam. flowers
have 5 bright yellow anthers reminiscent of the fingers of a hand and give
the plant its common name of “Finger Flower”. It occurs naturally in South
Australia, Victoria and N.S.W. and most plants in Canberra were propagated
from a collection near Burrinjuck Dam.

Microcachrys tetragona and Diselma archeri

These two species have been grouped together because they have much
in common. They are both conifers, both hail from sub-alpine areas of
Tasmania, both may be propagated from cuttings and both make useful
additions to the rockery. They are slow to grow and despite the fact that
Diselma may reach 12 feet, it would take many years to do so. Microcachrys
tetragona on the other hand is almost prostrate, and could be used to
hang over rock walls. Foliage is a bright dark green and both species are
frost hardy. In the garden, they appreciate plenty of water and indications
from pot culture are that they appreciate a rich, heavy soil mixed with
some leaf mould.

Lotus australis

Pea flowers are often neglected in garden culture but many worthwhile
shrubs, climbers and ground covers are included in the family. Lotus australis
is a pink flowered, small shrub which may be readily propagated from seed.
The form being grown in Canberra tends to form a compact shrub about
15”-18" high and flowers in late spring. It accepts full sun or partial shade
and prefers to be kept reasonably dry.

Pultenaea microphylla (prostrate form)

This species varies considerably in habit but it is the prostrate form
which is of most use in the rockery. It may be used to hang over rocks
and in spring gives a fine display of yellow pea flowers. Propagation is
from seed or cutting and with the form grown in Canberra there is no



@@@ 33 @@@



March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR ROCKERIES Page 269—Vol. 5

problem with frost. It was collected from the Braidwood area. At least half sun
and good drainage are essential for good cultivation. The species is widely
spread over N.S.W. and into Queensland.

Pultenaea sp. undescribed

The fact that this plant has not been given a name should not prevent
its being grown in gardens. It occurs naturally in the Diamond Head area
of the mid-north coast of N.SW. and may be readily propagated from
cuttings. As a tight ground cover with light green, slightly hairy leaves, it is
attractive even when not in flower. However, in summer when the yellow
pea flowers are produced in profusion the plant is at its best. Plants in
Canberra are about 2 years old and the largest would have a diameter of
3 ft. and a height of 3 inches. The species is frost hardy and responds to
blood and bone fertiliser. It does well in full sun.

Oxylobium tricuspidatum

This is another prostrate yellow pea flower which has a place in
the rockery. With pretty almost holly shaped leaves it is less vigorous than
the former species, but it too forms a tight mat. Flowers are produced in
spring and propagation is easy from cuttings. The species is slightly frost
tender and needs some protection from the heaviest frosts here in Canberra.
Dodonaea procumbens

Very few Dodonaeas are known as ground covers, but this Victorian
species has attractive bright green cuneate leaves and forms a moderately
tight mat some two feet or more in diameter. Male flowers are insignificant
and fruits are less attractive than some of the shrubby species. However the
species is worth growing as a ground cover for its foliage alone. Propagation
is from cuttings and the species is frost hardy.

Grevillea australis (prostrate form)

This is a common shrub of the snow country on the mainland and
Tasmania. However, its normal form is a shrub to 3 ft. The form described
here was collected as cuttings from Mt. Barrow in Tasmania and is completely
prostrate. It has been grown in Canberra for several years and shows great
potential as a tight ground cover. Flowers are small and white and add
little to the appearance of the plant, but its dark green shiny foliage is
sufficient to recommend its use. Propagation is from cuttings and it is frost
hardy.

Tetratheca juncea

The genus Tetratheca is not grown extensively in gardens, possibly
because plants that have been tried have been poorly sighted and losses
have resulted. In general, the genus should be regarded as an undershrub
and given considerable shelter. An exception to this rule is T. juncea which
will accept full sun and enjoy it. The species occurs along the Central
Coast of N.S.W. although almost leafless and may be grown readily from
cuttings. It forms a tufted plant 12” high and is covered in mauve-pink
flowers in spring and has odd flowers for most of the year. It is a rewarding
rockery plant and frost hardy. Page 284 for colour plate of similar plant.
Rhagodia spinescens var. deltophylla

Occurring in the dry country of S.A. this species had adapted well to
the “kinder” conditions of the east coast. It is being grown successfully in
Sydney and is quite frost hardy in Canberra. As a member of the sometimes
scorned Saltbush family it has the grey foliage so typical of the Centre.
Propagation is easy from cuttings and the shrub forms a dense ground cover
some 18" high and spreading 5 or 6 feet. Flowers, as for most of the
family are insignificant but the plant is worthwhile growing as a foliage
contrast.



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Page 270—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—PROPAGATION OF ORCHIDS March, 1970

ORCHIDS FROM SEEDS

HOW TO FLASK TERRESTRIAL ORCHID SEED IN BOTTLES
By B. C. Kowald, Box 57, Katanning, Western Australia

Knudson’s formula is the medium used in flasking the seed of native
terrestrial orchids in bottles. If it is not convenient to prepare the formula
oneself, have the local chemist prepare it. The chemist may require that all
the chemicals be purchased in bulk and held by the hopeful orchid grower.
The formula mixture must be ground very finely and have the correct pH.
Knudson’s formula was published in the September 1963 issue of “Australian
Plants”. At the same time that the above formula is being prepared or the
materials obtained, have the chemist weigh out several lots of 10 grams of
solid calcium hypochlorite and store it in a very dry container.

Materials required for this work will include vinegar, cool drink or
similar bottles with plastic or cork seal stoppers; small bottles for the seed
with stoppers, junket tablet type; a large cardboard carton; two inch lengths
of plastic tubing, one for each bottle that will contain the seed (flasked);
three to four inch squares of plastic sheet, again one each to a flasking
bottle; squares of wadding to the same number and dimensions as the
plastic sheet; a long tubed eye dropper or copper wire with a looped end;
old Vacola rubber rings; one or two tea towels; a small bottle with a
screw cap to hold the distilled water; a plastic spoon; a pair of rubber
gloves; an odd cup and large amounts of “Captan” fungicide.

For flasking, the vinegar, small cool drink or other similar types of
bottles are used, those that have plastic or cork stoppers. Holes are made
in the stoppers with a hot toasting fork or similar device or by using a
small hand drill etc. Wash and rinse the bottles and stoppers extremely
thoroughly and dry them. Into each hole in the stoppers, one of the two
inch lengths of plastic tubing is pushed. Tightly twisted wadding is now
pushed into the plastic tubing and labels made from the plastic tops of cream
containers etc. are now fixed to the bottles and numbered. These labels should
be marked with an ink that will not be removed by boiling.

Mix the formula as supplied by the chemist with 11 grams of plain agar
and 1000 c.c. of distilled water, plus a quarter of a cup to allow for
evaporation. This is then boiled for 10 minutes in a double boiler. Allow
the resultant liquid to cool, if it is too thin then add a little more agar
and reboil, stirring all the time with a plastic spoon till the agar has dissolved.
About one inch or more of this gell mixture is poured into each bottle, using
a plastic funnel and stirring all the time. After the liquid has been poured
into each bottle fit the stopper loosely.

A Vacola outfit or similar container is used to sterilise the bottles
containing the Knudson’s medium. The hole in the outfit where the thermometer
normally goes is blocked with a wad of cloth. Put enough water in the
outfit to bring the level to about one inch higher than the level of the medium
in the bottles no higher or they will fall over. Bring the water to the boil
and allow to boil for one hour. At the end of this time pour all the water
out of the outfit and immediately tighten the tops on the bottles. Replace
them quickly back into the outfit laying them on their sides and standing them

Editor’s Note: Many readers will immediately decide that all the work involved above
is too much trouble. Those people who have tried to raise orchids from seed, however,
will readily acknowledge that if this method works then it is well worth the trouble. Mrs.
Kowald has had remarkable success with this method and others are urged to try it.
We carried a fully illustrated description of a similar method in our No. 18 issue.



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March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—PROPAGATION OF ORCHIDS Page 271—Vol. §

upon a towel, and replace the lid of the Vacola outfit tightly. Allow to
stand for one day before flasking the seed. Placing the bottles on their
sides will give a larger planting area.

The small seed bottles, eye dropper, the bottle for the distilled water
and other small items that will go into the sterile box are all wrapped in a
tea towel and boiled in a saucepan for one hour. Remove from heat but
leave lid on until required for use.

Flasking is done in an home made steriliser box made from a cardboard
carton, in March or April. The opening in the carton is covered with a
large piece of glass or plastic sheet, the author used an old top window
from a tractor cab, fixed tightly down. This gives a window so that the work
may be viewed. Two holes are made in the front of the carton and two
plastic sleeves, made from plastic sheet with elastic cuffs, are sewn onto the
carton so that they may pass through the holes when the arms are inserted
into the box. Before placing the various components into the steriliser it
should be carefully washed out with “Captan” solution.

First place 10 grams of the calcium hypochlorite in a bottle with 140
cc. of distilled water and shake well for one hour, allow to stand so
that any solid material will settle. The clear liquid is then poured into
another bottle. On to each of the small seed bottles, previously boiled, fix
a small piece of sticking plaster. Pour into each of these bottles some
of the settled liquid calcium hypochlorite. The seed is now placed into
its own bottle and the plant name and a number, which will coincide with
a numbered flasking bottle, is written upon the sticking plaster. These small
bottles containing the seed are now shaken vigorously for 20 minutes.

Spread a boiled tea towel or two, after they have been dipped in
Captan solution and squeezed dry, over the bottom of the carton. Now
the following articles are placed into the box, after being dipped in the
Captan solution; the flasking bottles to the left side rear; the seed bottles,
the small bottle of distilled water, to the right rear; the old Vacola rubber
rings, pieces of wadding squeezed dry, the squares of plastic sheet are
placed near the front. Into the far right corner place a cup containing
some Captan solution. Spray the inside of the carton with a fungicide
(Cuppox) and cose the lid and seal tightly.

The rubber gloves are now fitted onto the hands and these are then
rinsed in Captan solution and the arms pushed through the plastic sleeve
into the carton. The fingers are dipped into the cup of Captan’s solution
and stirred around a little. Open a small seed bottle and with out disturbing
the seed, pour off the Hypochlorite water. If the seed is floating get the solution
out with a dropper. Now charge the eye dropper with distilled water and
drop a few drops of this water into the bottle (just enough to float out
the seed) and shake well with a finger covering the opening. Open the
appropriately numbered bottle containing the Knudson’s medium and quickly
tip the contents of the small bottle into it. Shake and pour quickly so that
seed does not run down and stick on the side. If some seed remains,
repeat the above. Carefully pour off the surplus water from the Knudson’s
medium without disturbing the seed. In the author’s experience it has been
found not impoortant to completely remove all the water; the best and
largest growing seedlings were in a bottle containing a very slopoy medium.
In preference to the above method of placing the sesd nn the mediu~.

a wire loop may be used to pick the seed out of the small bottles and to
place it on the medium.



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Page 272—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—PROPAGATION OF ORCHIDS March, 1970

After the seed has been placed, replace the stopper firmly on the
flasking bottle and cover it with a piece of the wadding, covered with a
piece of the plastic sheet. Use a twisted Vacola rubber ring to hold this
cover down firmly. The stoppers should have been kept in a cup of
“Captan”  while bottles were being filled and the wadding should be
dampened with it. When finished be sure to wash the hands thoroughly
to remove any residual fungicide.

The bottles are kept in a cool room with little light. When the leaves
appear, filtered early morning sunlight can be allowed to fall upon them.
The plants may be left in the bottles for as long as two years before
planting out. February to March would be the best time to plant out,
just as they are starting to show growth after the summer dormancy. The
author washes the small tubers out with luke warm distilled water. The small
tubers are planted in a fine rotted leaves and tan bark mixture. Water
first with cool distilled water with a little yeast solution mixed with it. More
yeast solution may be given in about a month from planting out. Plants
are placed in a cool sheltered position where they may receive early
morning sunlight.

Orchids in Australia

Review by Jean Galbraith

The complete edition of Orchids of Australia by W. H. Nicholls and edited
by T. B. Muir and D. L. Jones is outstanding as a book on Australia’s natural
history. It is not inexpensive. The retail price is $30.00, but I doubt whether any
book at that price is better value. It is a book one can hardly over praise. Wishing
tc provide a little “salt” to balance the “sweet” of praise I have looked for
something to criticise lest unalloged praise be thought uncritical. I found nothing
of importance. The one minor disadvantage is the absence of any reference
to the few common species which are not illustrated. The 400 species illustrated are
more than half the total number of Australian species, but it would be impracticable
to list all those, mainly rare, species not illustrated. Still it is pity when a common
and striking species such as Cryptostylis longifolia is not even mentioned though all
other Australian species are illustrated. A brief reference under the generic name
would save beginners some trouble.

As a help in identifying orchids it will be invaluable. Many who find even
a lucid botanical description difficult will be able to recognise species at once
by referring to these fine life-size paintings by W. H. Nicholls.

Mr. Nicholl’'s descriptions of, and notes on, all species illustrated (about
470) are invaluable. They are together at the beginning of the book, each name
followed by the plate number (and each plate with a cross reference to the
description). The book has been edited with discrimination and care by Messrs.
Jones and Muir. They have made no changes in the original text except in
bringing all names up to date, but additional information has where necessary, been
added in square brackets. Also, for the specialist the name under which the
species was first described, with the date and name of the publication in which
it appeared, and page references to state floras have been added.

So much for the text and excellent editing. The book could never take its
place amongst definitive botanical literature without them, but it is the plates
that make the book outstanding in the history of Australian book publishing.

I have been familiar with the work of W. H. Nicholls since the early nineteen
twenties when I first met him and saw for the first time the work of a then
unknown artist and orchidologist. During a friendship that lasted until his
death, T saw the originals of most of the plates in the book, so I know how
accurately the colour and delicate workmanship are reproduced.

Every one of those 476 plates is a delight whether to botanist or artist,
but to this reviewer it is the nictures of very small species like the miniature
prasophyllums that give the keenest pleasure. One can only marvel at the
eyesight and ability they demand from the artist: marvel too, as one does in
nature itself, at the exquisite detail of colour and form in minute flowers.

(Continued on page 282)



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March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—IRIDACEAE

TASMANIAN  ISOPHYSIS

A series on Tasmanian Wildflowers by A. M. Gray

Isophysis tasmanica Hook. f. syn. Hewardia tasmanica Hook. f.

Isophysis tasmanica is a strikingly beautiful plant occurring in poor
arid country in the west and S.W. of Tasmania. Hewardia has been classified
in both the Liliaceae and Iridaceae families, the reason for this is that
the ovary does not exactly conform to either family.

On the quartzite ridges and craggs of the S.W., “Hewardia” is found in
abundance, growing in rocky clefts or small pockets of peaty soil. When
not in flower it is easily overlooked as it resembles a tuft of coarse grass.
In the flowering season, however, there is no mistaking it, the flowers are
striking and most attractive, star-shaped and deep purple, burgundy or



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Page 274—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—IRIDACEAE March, 1970

rarely yellow and from 1” to 3" across. It has popularly been called the

"“Eidelweiss” of the Tasmanian West and South-west country, although of

course it has no resemblance to this plant and is not even distantly related.
The detailed description is as follows:-

A small perennial, densely tufted, from 2 to 12” high. The leaves
with the bases imbricate and sheathing, radical, rigid and lanceolate in
shape; opposite and equal in length. The single plant fan-shaped. Flowers
solitary on a simple, erect stem, 6” to 1’ high, with a few leafy bracts
along its length. The flowers subtended by two leafy bracts. Perianth regular,
spreading or reflexed, united at the base and with six narrow-lanceolate
segments, 1" to 2” long, purple or yellow in colour. Stamens 3, united to the
base of the three inner segments. Anthers opening outwards, filaments
short. Ovary connected at the base with the perianth, the remainder free
and more or less superior, three-celled with numerous ovules in each
compartment. Style shortly divided into three branches at the apex, short.
Isophysis has a fairly short flowering season, usually from November to
January. It is widely distributed all over the quartzite country of the West
and South-west of Tasmania, from sea level to the highest peaks.

The most successful way to propagate Isophysis is by seed. Root
divisions may be taken but this requires some skill and a lot of care to
ensure success as the plant dislikes disturbances. Seed is easily obtained
from the ripe capsules, usually in February or March and should be sown
soon after. A shallow pan or seed box is the best receptacle, and a mixture
of fine sand and peaty soil, 1/1 is the best sowing medium. The seed
should be scattered thinly and only just covered with the sowing medium;
watering should be regular. When the seed has germinated the small plants
should be transplanted into small pots or directly into the rockery garden.
Isophysis reauires a cool position with reasonable drainaae. the soil should
be acid in nature. A rocky soil with the above characteristics is ideal.

ISOPHYSIS TO REPLACE HEWARDIA

The name Hewardia is illegitimate as it duplicates an older published Hewardia for
a genus of ferns. So our attractive Tasmanian lily must now become Isophysis tasmanica
(Hook.) T. Moore 1853.—J. H. Willis, Herbarium, Melbourne.

THE PLANT FAMILY IRIDACEAE IN AUSTRALIA

There are not a great many mmebers of the ‘‘iris”” family native to Australia and
reports on these are invited. They are:

The genus Diplarrena—D. moroea and D. —— species nova possibly.

The genus Patersonia—Some of the 38 species described and illustrated in colour in

our No. 38 issue.

The genus Libertia—L. pulchella and L. of the south-east.

The genus Isophysis—The only species I. tasmanica as above.

The genus Orthrosanthus—Five species of the ‘“Morning Iris’”” of West Australia.

The genus Campynoma—C. lineare of Tasmania is the only species.

—————

THE GENUS DRACOPHYLLUM—

The species of this genus were described in our last issue. The following paragraph
was omitted in error.

3. Dracophyllum milliganii Hook. f.

A tall moderately branched shrub up to 4 m. high, with large leaves
(15-90 cm. long) crowded at the top. Panicles up to 40 cm. long bearing
numerous white or pinkish flowers in which the staminal filaments are free.
Endemic to Tasmania, where it favours wet places in mountain gullies and
exposed slopes up to altitudes of about 4,000 feet.



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March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—ORCHIDACEAE Page 275—Vol. 5

DENDROBIUM KINGIANUM

by A. W. Dockrill

Dendrobium kingianum is a favourite amongst orchid horticulturalists
in New South Wales and Southern Queensland. It is readily cultivated (in
most of its forms) under a wide variety of conditions, occurring in bewildering
variations.

This species occurs from almost the Hunter River in Central-eastern New
South Wales almost to the Tropic of Capricorn and from within a few miles of
the coast to, in one area at least, about 250 miles inland. Also it is found
from a few feet above sea level to about 4,000 feet. It usually grows on rocks
or cliffs in rather exposed situations but is occasionally found in gullies
where it gets a fair amount of shade; on rare occasions, plants have also
been growing on trees.

A plant will, under favourable conditions, become a “mat” covering an
area of several square yards. Its stems are closely tufted, are from under 2
to over 12 inches long, are thickest near the base and usually, but not
invariably, taper to a slender neck near the top. Most plants will, under
some conditions, freely produce aerial growths from near the top of the
stems but some plants, especially those of var. pulcherrimum Rupp, seldom
produce these. From 2 to 6 leaves are borne near the top of the stem
and vary from about 1 to 5 inches long. The racemes also arise from
near the top of the stem, vary from 1% to at least 6 inches long and bear
from 2 to at least 15 flowers. The flowers are from Y2 an inch to over an
inch in diameter and the accompanying illustration shows 50 variations in
colour and shape which occur. It would not be surprising to find that there
were a further 50 variations.

A number of “varieties” have been described, all but one of which
were based on colour of the flowers but since about 100 variations in colour
of flowers occur, it can be seen that these “varieties” are of little significance.
The exception to the above remarks, var. pulcherrimum Rupp, is a variety
with very short stems under 4 inches long which usually bear only 2 leaves
(but occasionally 3 or 4) and short racemes which are few-flowered; the flowers
average about an inch in diameter, are widely opening and are usually a
dark reddish mauve but vary to pale rose.

AUSTRALIAN INDIGENOUS ORCHIDS

This large 870 page book by A. W. Dockrill describes all Australian epiphytic orchids
and those terrestrial orchids found in the northern areas of Australia. For people interested
in the epiphytic orchids of Australia, this is the only book that meets their needs.

It is proposed to maintain this book up to date through the pages of ‘‘Australian
Plants'’ presenting additional information, new species, new discoveries, etc., thorough
examination has revealed six corrections, most of which are minor. These are available in the
form of a 4 page pamphlet, which also contains the author’s introduction to the book,
to those who have already purchased copies, by writing to The Editor, ‘‘Australian Plants’’,
860 Henry Lawson Drive, Picnic Point, N.S.W. 2213. Copies of this wonderful book may
also be obtained by mail from this address by sending $18.00 plus $1.00 postage.

There are many fine colour plates in the book also and it is proposed to produce
a colour plate of all species in ‘‘Australian Plants’’ if suitable colour slides come to hand.
If you have a really good colour slide of an epiphytic orchid that is not featured in colour

in the book, then forward it to the editor for inspection. I urgently need a colour slide
of Dendrobium sturtii.



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Page 276—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—ORCHIDACEAE March, 1970

Photography by R. F. Leaney.

Dendrobium kingianum

A fine rosy pink form of the Queensland type from the area of Mt. Lindsay on
the Macpherson Ranges.

Insect Pest Control—By the Use of Insects

“For years | have been an A.O.S. member and an avid hobbyist. |
caught the bug when | lived in Florida. When we moved to New York |
had a greenhouse built . . . The use of greenhouse cultural methods
after the ease of South Florida outdoor growing conditions was a painful
transition.

The worst chore was insect control. | am quite allergic and do not like
using commercial insecticides, so | started to apply some of my outdoor
gardening habits to my orchid culture. | brought my friends the Praying
Mantis and the Ladybird Beetles into my greenhouse. These beneficial insects
devour thrips, and all small insects and when the mantids get big they eat
spiders. | placed an egg-case in the greenhouse this season. The young
mantids are doing a great job already.”

The following information from the Department of Agriculture’s Ento-
mologist is that all ladybird beetles, with one exception, are useful to
mankind, as they feed mainly on aphids, thrips, red spiders and such pests
as we usually destroy with chemicals.

The one exception is the “28 spot” or pumpkin beetle, which has a
high, round body, practically a half sphere, yellow with 28 black or brown
spots. There is one, very like it, but a “goody” which has 16 spots and is
often killed for the sins of his relative. The “28 spot”” is often found on
cucurbits, potatoes and tomatoes, where the larvae do a lot of damage
to the leaves.

The “goodys” are often found where there are large aphid colonies,
such as on the chrysanthemums or the roses. Pick the whole spray, bugs
and all, take it into your greenhouse and let them get to work. Of course,
if you use insect sprays they will destroy your new friends also.



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March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—ORCHIDACEAE Page 277—Vol. 5

Reprinted from ‘‘Australian Orchid Review'’

Colour forms of Dendrobium kingianum

DEANE’S ORCHID NURSERY
Specialising in Australian Native Orchids
Please send for descriptive list. Plants sent anywhere.
Nursery open weekends only
157 BEECROFT ROAD, CHELTENHAM, N.S.W.



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Page 278—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—ORCHIDACEAE March, 1870

“THE POTATO ORCHID”, GASTRODIA

by Leo Cady

In all the plant world there are few plants found that are as interesting
and unusual as one group of Orchids called Saprophytes. A Saprophyte is
a plant that derives its means of support from decaying leaf mould and
should not be confused with a parasite which attaches its self to living
organism for its nourishment.

The section of saprophytes is relatively small to the number of green
leaved plants in the orchid family. It is often found that only one species
in a genus had adapted to this method of livelihood. Saprophytes have evolved
a method of living which is heavily dependent on a symbiosis association
with various ground fungi. In Australia little has been done to identify the
associated fungi, although a recent paper' gives some of the fungi that
have been isolated with a few of the green leaf species.

For a number of years the author has felt that there was often a
fungal connection between orchid and trees, shrubs or any other plants
they associate with. Recently in New Zealand it was proven that Gastrodia
sesamoides growing in conjunction with Acacia melanoxylon had a bridge
of the Fungus Fomes spp. impregnating both plants and connecting both
plants in a living bridge®.

The genus Gastrodia belongs to this saprophytic section, most if not
all of the 16 species are saprophytes. The genus is chiefly Indomalayan, two
endemic species being found in Australia, one G. sesamoides extends to
New Zealand and is found in all Australian states while G. queenslandica
occurs only in North Queensland.

The name Gastrodia means “Little Stomache”.

Gastrodia sesamoides R.Br. “The Potato Orchid”’

A slender plant up to 60 cm. tall. No leaves are present, these being
reduced to stembracts. Plant with a potato like tuberous rhizome. Flowers
usually few but occasionally in a fairly numerous crowded raceme, whitish
to cinnamon brown in colour, the segments united into a five lobed tube,
very gibbous at the base and the flared section at the apex of the tube,
somewhat undulate. Labellum is on a dilated claw, oblong yellow or orange,
very obtuse, the margins verv undulate, the lamina with a single longitudinal
ridge bordered with calli and ending in a multiple gland.

Column very narrowly winged. Anther operculate; stigma oblong. Flowers
in August to January.

Gastrodia queenslandica Dockrill

A slender plant up to 8 cm., elongating up to 30 cm. after fertilisation.
The flowers up to 2 are dingy yellow outside and orange inside, tubular,
between 8 to 12 mm. long. The sepals and petals are joined for almost
their entire length with only a small opening at the apex of the flower.
The labellum is three lobed with two large basal calli and two ridges on
the lamina towards the apex. The lamina is very narrow-at the base, expanding
into an almost heart shaped blade. Column has two black or brown wings
extending just higher than the anther.

Flowers from December to January.

I Warcup and Talbot. The New#Phytologist; 66, 631-641, Oct. 1967.
2 E. D. Hatch, New Zealand Gardener, 21 June, 1969.



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March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—ORCHIDACEAE Page 279—Vol. 5

Remarks: This species was only recently described, the author Mr. A. W.
Dockrill states the plant to be “not rare but it is seldom seen as its life
cycle of the portion of the plant above ground is extremely short, the first
emergence from the ground to dispersal of the seed occupying only about
a week”. It is found in lowland rain forest up to 1500 ft. altitude.

GASTRODIA SESAMOIDES. RBnr

KEY TO PLATE

A. Plant 4 natural size. ‘D. Labellum 'above. F. Upper section of the column fArontA
B. Flower above . Column side. . G. Ovary and faded flower side.
C. Labellum side. H. Flower side.

All figures excepting A. greatly enlarged.



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Page 280—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—MIMOSACEAE March, 1970

TASMANIAN WATTLES

(An article in a series on “Tasmanian Wildflowers” by A. M. Gray)

ACACIA RICEANA Henslow.

One of the most attractive wattles, suitable for all gardens except
the very driest is Acacia riceana, one of the two endemic species found in
Tasmania. Occurring in moist situations, this wattle is quite common in the
south of the state, tolerating soils which are almost pure clay and minimal
drainage.

A shrub or small tree up to 20’ high, it has a most graceful weeping
habit with deep green leaves (pohyllodes) which resemble those of Grevillea
rosmarinifolia in size and shape. They are arranged at irregular intervals,
sometimes appearing almost whorled, %"”-1” long and =+ 1/8"” broad with
one prominent mid vein and faint lateral veins. The apex is sharply pointed.
The young branches are reddish in colour and the long flower spikes creamish
or pale yellow.

Acacia riceana is easily propagated from seed; cuttings are also guite
successful. A puggy clay soil is the best for this species although it will
grow quite well in humus or sandy soils as long as the ground is kept moist.
Protection from hot, drying winds is most important.

Acacia axillaris is the other endemic Tasmanian species and is similar
to A. riceana. It is limited to a few localities on the East Coast.

OTHER WATTLES FOUND IN TASMANIA

Acacia armata. Introduced from the Mainland.

Acacia botrycephala. Frequent near coasts, flowers in spherical heads,
leaves bipinnate. 3-15" high. Vic., N.S.W. also.

Acacia dealbata. Damp places and fern gullies; flowers in spherical
heads, leaves bipinnate. 6-100" high. Vic.,, N.S.W. also.

Acacia decurrens. Similar to A. dealbata, leaves bipinnate but not
silvery, spherical heads of flowers. Vic.,, N.S.W.

Acacia diffusa. Dry places and on roadsides, leaves (phyllodes) rigid
sharply pointed, flowers spherical. 6” or up to &' high. Vic.,, N.S.W.

Acacia juniperina. Similar to the above; found on sandy coasts 1°-2
in height. Vic,, N.SW., Qld.

Acacia mearnsii. Very similar to Acacia decurrens, the bipinnate leaves
darker green. Un to 30’ high. S.A., Vic.,, N.S.W.

Acacia melanoxylon. Widespread but preferring wet swampy situations,
large leathery phyllccles, flowers in spherical heads. 10°-100" high.

Acacia mucronata. Widespread in damp situations, narrow leathery
phyllcdes flowers in loose axillary spikes 2’-30’ high. Vic.

Acacia myrtifolia. Widespread in dry situations phyllodes eathery oblong
or obovate. Apex sometimes pungent, flowers in spherical heads, forming
axillary racemes 1°-3’ high. S.A., Vic., N.S.W.

Acacia retinodes. Flinders Island, Vic., S.A. Phyllodes linear, soft flowers
in axillary racemes 3'-15’ high.

Acacia siculiformis. 3000-4000 in the N.E. and Central Plateau of
Tasmania, also in Vic. and N.S.W. Phyllodes hard, rigid and pungent,
flowers in spherical heads 1'-3'.

Acacia sophorae. Sand dunes, coastal soft phyllodes flowers in axillary
spikes 5-20°. S.A., Vic., N.S.W.

Acacia stricta. Common in dry situations phyllodes linear, leathery apex
blunt. Fowers in numerous spherical heads. 3'-10". Vic.,, N.S.W.



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March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—MIMOSACEAE Page 281—Vol. 5

Photography by Frank Hurley Blocks by courtesy of John Sands Pty. Ltd.

Acacia armata—''Kangaroo Thorn’’ Wattle

Acacia armata is a most distinctive wattle. It is called ‘‘Hedge Wattle’’ also as it does
make an effective hedge. It grows to 8 ft. and has a good yellow coloured flowerhead. Be
sure to plant it where you will not rub the spikes or where you do not want people to walk.

Acacia suaveolens. Common in sandy heaths, long leathery phyllodes.
Flowers axillary racemes. 3'-6’. Vic.,, N.S.W., Qld.

Acacia verniciflua. Common in damp shady situations, phyllodes narrow
lanceolate or elliptical blunt, flowers several together, each with 50-60
flowers, spherical. 6'-20’. S.A., Vic.,, N.S.W.

Acacia verticillata. Common in gullies and damp hillsides. Phyllodes in



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Page 282—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—MIMOSACEAE March, 1970

whorls of =+ 6, rigid and pungent. Flowers in a dense cylindrical spike
17 6"”-15' high. S.A., Vic.

Acacia romeriformis. Frequent in dry heaths, phyllodes small =+ triangular
pungent. Flowers in small spherical heads, procumbent to 1’ high. S.A.,
Vic., N.S.W.

WESTERN AUSTRALIAN CRISIS

The survival of our natural heritage, nature’s wonders of flora, fauna
and off-shore reefs, has reached crisis point throughout Australia. Why is it
that our elected representatives to government appear so helpless. In booming
Western Australia where the government members appear to be the most
progressive, one of the surviving wonders of nature’s world, the W.A.
wildflowers are being impatiently thrust into extinction. They recently opened
a new herbarium. If a more progressive approach is not taken in relation
to the areas set aside for conservation, it will not be long before their
tourists will have to go to the herbarium to look at the dried specimens and
wonder at the folly of man that allowed such treasures to become extinct.

All Australian Australians beseech the W.A. Government to heed the
people that took part in the recent conservation marches on Parliament House
with the W.A. Native Conservation Council’s Bill of Rights. You were elected
and trusted to guard our Australian heritage and way of life.

Tragedy

Two fine men have died adding climax to this crisis. One was an
old man who had devoted his life to the study of wildflowers and took with
him a wealth of knowledge now lost for ever. The other was a man in the
prime of his life, trained and competent in the field of horticulture and
public park display, who would have added enormously to the work he has
already done at King’s Park. There will be others to follow but what have we
lost in our race for the non-extinction of the W.A. flora?

CHARLES AUSTIN GARDINER has died but his memory will live forever in the names
of many wildflowers of Western Australia. Appointed to the staff of the Forestry Dept. in
1920 as a botanical collecter, he has traversed the length and breadth of Western Australia
in many expeditions. As Government Botanist for many years his profound knowledge of
the W.A. flora has probably never been equalled. The loss of this man, a giant in his field,
will be sorely felt by those now trying to balance the survival of man with the survival
of his earthly domain.

ARTHUR FAIRALL collapsed and died while fighting a fire in King’s Park that was
probably deliberately lit. Together with John Beard, he conceived the present display at
King’s Park. Prior to coming to Perth he was Parks Superintendent at Pietermaritzburg,
South Africa and his professional competence was outstanding. Years of careful observation
and experience have been compiled in his book ‘“West Australian Native Plants in
Cultivation”” which will be available shorty. In the prime of life Arthur Fairall had much to
contribute to our culture.

ORCHIDS OF AUSTRALIA—cont. from page 272

About § of the species illustrated are terrestrial, and as “Australian Indigenous
Orchids” by A. W. Dockrill describes and illustrates all the epiphytic orchids of
Australia as well as the terrestrials from Northern Australia orchidologists in
Australia are being catered for as never before. The degree of overlapping between
the two new orchids is small and they supplement each other to practically cover
the whole family in Australia.

Each plate of Orchids of Australia occupies a full page (93" x 12%”) except
in the case of a few of the larger epiphytes which occupy two pages.

One cannot congratulate the author who did not live to see the complete
edition of his great work published, but congratulations must certainly go to
both editors and publisher, on so enriching the literature dealing with Australian
plants that, in its field, one does not feel that the work can be surpassed.
Orchids of Australia by W. H. Nicholls, edited by D. L. Jones and T. B. Muir,

published by Nelson, 128 pages of text, 478 full page colour plates. $30.00-Aust.

Available by mail from the Editor, 860 Henry Lawson Drive, Picnic  Point,

N.S.W. 2213, Australia_plus $1.00 postage ($2.40 overseas).



@@@ 47 @@@



march, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—MIMOSACEAE Page 283—Vol. 5

STREET TREES

by H. O. Oakman and R. Boden

BATSWING CORAL

Many of our native trees have responded well to cultivation and quite
a number are grown as ornamentals but only a select few have been used
to any extent for street planting. The reasons for this are fairly obvious—
availability is the first one; not many nurserymen are keen to propagate
native trees in sufficient quantities for street planting unless they are given
a firm order. Parksmen are even less inclined to risk their reputations on
street trees about which there is insufficient information as predictable results
and public appreciation are basic requirements.

Some years ago, one section of a Brisbane suburb was selected for
tree trials in which many of the Queensland natives were grown as street
trees for the first time. The Batswing Coral (Erythrina vespertilio) was one of
these and has proved itself to be a very useful tree for hard conditions and
places where maintenance attention is minimal. In good soil, growth is
very fast and a stem is formed early without recourse to pruning. Branching
is strong and dense, forming a shapely crown.

The Batswing Coral is deciduous for a few weeks. It prefers full sun
and can stand heat, qualities that make it ideal for inland towns. It is
unsuitable for exposed sites and its covering of spines may be regarded
as a disadvantage, but not more so than the other species of coral that
have been used extensively throughout Australia. Stakes should be used
when planting out as the young growth is inclined to be brittle.

The leaflets are from 3-4" long, smooth, pale green with 3 lobes looking
somewhat like a bat in flight. The flowers are pea shape, densely held on
erect racemes, bright orange and make a display for three weeks. The
seed pods are twisted and contain a few large red seeds.

The Batswing Coral is known to timber men as the Grey Corkwood
because of its straw coloured, very light but tough timber. The Aborigines
used it to make shields as the fibre is stringy and would not split if hit by
spears. A few years ago the wood was used for surf boards. This tree was
known to the Aborigines as Goomurrie, Nanango or Arangi and they used
its flowers as a sign of mourning, fixing them in the hair with bees wax. The
roots were eaten raw. lts habitat is North New South Wales and most of
Queensland where it is found in the drier scrub. Approximate height is 40 ft.

When raised from seed the Batswing Coral is extremely variable in its
foliage, growth and flowering. There is no doubt, however, that once a
choice cultivar has been produced, the popularity of this tree will increase
tremendously.

OTHER AUSTRALIAN ERYTHRINA

Erythrina phlebocarpa is extremely hardy and vigorous, flowering
freely in less than 12 months from mature cuttings and blooming from May to
the end of August. It usually loses its leaves shortly after the bright scarlet
flowers open and the new leaves appear in August. The terminal section of
these three part leaves is roughly triangular, a little longer than broad.
The tree occurs naturally in North Queensland, around Proserpine and
down the Queensland coast into N.S.W.

E. phlebocarpa is being used as a street tree in Perth and grown
at King's Park.

Erythrina insularis. The existence of this species has yet to be
confirmed.



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Page 284—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FROM WESTERN AUSTRALIA March, 1970

The Wild Foxglove,
Pityrodia axillaris

See page 267—A plant for
rockeries

The colour form shown here is
not particularly good but the
form of this plant is shown.
Very little is known of the
successful cultivation of this
plant. Will those who have
grown then please report.

Tetratheca affinis Endi.

““A Black-eyed Susan’’. See
page 269.

An eastern species T. juncea
is described. The species op-
posite is from W.A. and these
western species also can take
some exposure as in a rockery.
An issue on Tetratheca is
planned, will readers please
advise of their experiences.

Cyanostegia angustifolia

(See page 262 for description)

This plate does not show the
pretty violet open papery
flowers with their deep yellow
anthers but they completely
cover the bushes that are 3-5
feet high.

Blocks donated by
N. B. Thomson



@@@ 49 @@@



March, 1970

AT'STRALIAN PLANTS—NURSERYMEN

Page 285—Vol.

bl

RO CK

PLANT

SUPPLIES

174 CANTERBURY ROAD, BLACKBURN, STH. VIC. 3130
b 3¢

HONE :

878-4165

Australian Native Ground Covers and Dwarf Shrubs
Also all plants for the Rock Garden

Open Mon. to Sat. 9-5

Stamp for Native List

BARKLY

Native Plant

NURSERIES

Specialists

Choose from our growing specimens
269 NEPEN HIGHWAY, PARKDALE, 3194 — Phone: 90-2694

PRESERVATION BY CULTIVATION

FLORATLANDS

_ KARIONG, via GOSFORD, N.S.W.
A large variety of the most popular native plants at nursery.

PHONE: Gosford 21142

P. J. PARRY

AUSTRALIAN NATIVE PLANTS
GOOD SELECTION ADVANCED & SEMI-ADVANCED PLANTS AT

DENOVAN'’S NURSERY — 77-8891

188 Marco Avenue,

Panania, N.S.W.

SORRY NO MAIL ORDERS

NATIVE PLANTS

Shrubs, Trees, Ground Covers
Mail Orders wholesale only
20 varieties of Boronia—30 Grevillea
Flat to let.

J. L. & P. J. FREEMAN

‘‘Garamina’’, Merimbula, N.S.W.

TELOPEA VALLEY NURSERY
69 CUMBERLAND AVE., COLLAROY
also at Mangrove Mountain

Wide range Natives, small to advanced
plants — Regret no mail orders

PHONE: 98-6256

AUSTRAFLORA

NURSERY

W. R. Elliot — Telephone: 728-1353
BELFAST ROAD, MONTROSE, VIC. 3765

LARGE SELECTION OF GROUND COVERS, SHRUBS AND TREES
pen Wednesday to Saturdays or by arrangement

(o)
Wholesale and Retail

Send Stamp for Catalogue

ALEXANDER PLANT FARM
(Doug Twaits, Prop.)

2 Winifred Street, ESSENDON, VIC.
Phone: 379-5163
EVERYTHING FOR THE GARDEN
Specialising in Australian Native Plants

Greenbriar Drive-in Nursery
AUSTRALIAN NATIVE PLANTS
Large and Varied Selection

195-7 MOUNTAIN VIEW RD.,
BRIAR HILL, VIC. 3088

Phone: 43-1468 — Open Weekends

GAWSWORTH NURSERY
(Reg.)
SMEDLEY RD., NTH. RINGWOOD, 3134

NATIVE PLANTS

Open Sunday
Mon. to Fri. 1 pm. to 5 p.m.

NATIVE PLANTS

Over 350 varieties of shrubs, trees,
rockery plants, ground covers, climbers.
Specialising in hardy ornamentals in
small, semi advanced and advanced

AMAROO NURSERY
654-1488
Annangrove Rd., Kenthurst, N.S.W.
Closed Wednesday

BELBRA NURSERY

in the Heart of the Grampians
Large Range of Australian
Natives

Inquiries: BOX 12, HALL'S GAP
Catalogue posted 25¢ for mail orders
to Box 12, Hall’'s Gap, Vic. 3381

NARRABEEN NURSERY
74 AUSTRALIAN NATIVES
1444 Pittwater Rd., Narrabeen
Nth.,, N.S.\W. — 913-8289
OPEN EVERY DAY
Specialist in plants for sea coast



@@@ 50 @@@



Page 286—Vol. 5 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—YOUR SOCIETY March, 1970

THE SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS

‘“AUSTRALIAN PLANTS” IS AUSTRALIA’'S NATIONAL PRESERVATION JOURNAL
(A non-profit making venture, produced quarterly, dedicated to preservation by cultivation).

This journal is published by The Publishing Section on behalf of The Society for
Growing Australian Plants and its member Societies as follows:

SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—N.S.W. REGION:
President: Mr. C. M. Taylor, 39 Addison Avenue, Roseville, N.S.W. 2069.
Secretary: Mr. F. Hatfield, 56 Taunton Road, Hurstville, N.S.W. 2220.

SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—QLD. REGION:
President: Mr. M. W. Hodge, 25 Barford St., Moorooka, QIld. 4105.
Secretary: Mrs. D. Howlett, Whitty Road, Moggill, Qld. 4068.

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS:
President: Mr. G. R. Needham, 2 Stuckey Ave., Underdale, S.A. 5032.
Secretary: L. S. Howland, 2 ‘William St., Hawthorn, S.A. 5062.

SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—VICTORIA & TAS.:
President: Mr. F. L. Jeffs, 23 Salisbury Ave., Blackburn, Vic. 3130.
Secretary: (Sister) E. R. Bowman, 4 Homebush Crescent, Hawthorn East, Vic. 3123.

SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—CANBERRA REGION:
President: Mr. R. J. Ratcliffe, 96 Hodgson Cres., Pearce, A.C.T. 2607.
Secretary: Mrs. D. Robinson, 29 Hawker Street, Torrens, A.C.T. 2607.

WEST AUSTRALIAN WILDFLOWER SOC. (Inc.):
President: Mr. Barry Moss, Flat 202 ‘“Linden’’, 106 Terrace Drive, Perth, 6000.
Secretary: Mrs. G. A. Oxnam, P.O. Box 64, Nedlands W.A. 6009.

Membership is open to any person who wishes to grow Australian native plants.
Contact the Secretary of the Society for your State for information without obligation.

PUBLISHING SECTION FOR SOCIETIES

Managing Editor: W. H. Payne assisted by P. D. Leak; Treas.: N. Denovan;
Dispatch by R. Birtles, N. Gane, C. Hubner, N. Dent, J. Hayward, with families.
Stencils: H. Bartholomew. Illustrations: A. JSpurway, B. Maloney and E. Ham.
Advertising and Sales Representatives in each State: N.S.W., P. D. Leak; Qld., W. W. Kllgour
S.A.,, E. S. Thompson; Tas., G. van Munster; W.A., F. Lullfitz Vxc F. Jefls.
MAIL—Address mail to the Editor, 860 Henry Lawson Drive, Picnic Point, N.S.W. 2213.
SUBSCRIPTION—Members: Apply to State Secretary above.

NON-MEMBERS: You may receive the next 4 issues direct to your home by forwarding
an annual subscription of $1.20. Overseas subscriptions are 16/- sterling or $1.80 U.S.

PRINTING . ..

Printing is our business. Our aim is to supply it at the
most reasonable price and to give a courteous and efficient
service. If we can in anyway be of service to you or
your organisation, please contact us and we will be happy
to supply quotations . . . .

SURREY BEATTY & SONS
RICKARD ROAD, CHIPPING NORTON, 2170
TELEPHONE: 602-7404 602-6522



@@@ 51 @@@



o

March, 1970 AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—BOOKS Page 287—Vol. 5

BOOKS ON WILDFLOWERS

The number of books that have been produced on wildflowers must frustrate many
enthusiasts who would probably prefer to spend their money on plants. In the editor’s
opinion there is little doubt that the periodical ‘‘Australian Plants’ adequately meets the
needs of most wildflower growers, students and admirers. Printed since 1959, and now in
42 issues, all but six may be obtained from the editor.

VOLUME No. 1, issues 1-12, no longer available bound but all issues available separately
at 45c each except nos. 2, 3, 4 & 11, ie. $3.80 incl. postage.

VOLUME No. 2, issues 13-20, all available only fully bound at $6.00 plus 20c postage.
Bound in this volume is also ‘“A Descriptive Catalogue of Western Australian Plants’.

VOLUME No. 3, issues 21-28, all available only fully bound at $6.00 plus 20c postage,
including also ‘‘Catalogue of Cultivated Australian Native Plants” valued at $3.00.

VOLUME No. 4, issues 29-36, all available only fully bound at $6.00 plus 20c postage.
including “Western Australian Plants for Horticulture—Part 1'* valued at $3.00—see below.

VOLUME No. 5, issues commencing No. 37. Past issues are 45c each plus 5c postage.

Climbing on the bandwaggon most publishers have produced books on wildflowers.
Many cover the same range of subjects, which have already been introduced in ‘‘Australian
Plants” but most have either of the following disadvantages. They either have a large
number of beautiful colour plates with inadequate descriptions and practically nothing on
cultivation, or they attempt to deal with cultivation and skimp on colour plates leaving
it to the readers experience or imagination as to what the plant and flower really looks
like. If you bought most of the books available you would have less than half of the
range of material available in past issues of ‘Australian Plants’’. There are exceptions.

WEST AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR HORTICULTURE is the latest book by this Society
available from the editor for $3.00 plus 20c postage. The format of the book generally is
to have simple but adequate descriptions (using simple features that anyone can distinguish)
of three species in one genus with a full colour plate of one of them on the opposite page.
Directions as to cultivation are given for each species. Hundreds of West Australian wildflowers
are also described. This is the style of book we recommend and is excellent value at this low
price. It is proposed to produce more in this series on wildflowers from other states if readers
will support us by buying the first one, providing the money to produce the next one.

ST. ANNE’S NURSERY . .
% WABRIEN BD. CROYDON, WIG. Nindethana Native Plant

(off Mareondah Highway, opposite Seeds

Croydon Road) P d
NATIVE PLANTS, LARGE & SMALL By Packt, Dgnes or Foun

USUAL & UNUSUAL Large selection. Send for free list
Specialising in Gums NINDETHANA
Hours: 1-5 p.m. afternoons—all day
weekends — Closed Mondays B (G. W :\lthofe;;)s
Sorry No Interstate Mail Orders ox 5, Dripstone, S.w.

Clearview Nursery—W. Cane, Box 19 Maffra, Victoria. Specialist in developed plants.

KING'S PARK AND BOTANIC YOUR AUSTRALIAN GARDEN
GARDEN, PERTH, W.A. in Country or City
Current Seed List, 30c. Seed, 30c per CONSTRUCTED & MAINTAINED
packet. Wholesale rates on application. WITH NATIVE TREES & SHRUBS
“Descriptive Catalogue of W.A. Plants”’ Grown in the sun and wind of the
by J. S. Beard, $1.35. Keilor Plains by
“The Cultivation of Native Plants’’ by
D ™ e M5 o 15 TULLAMARINE PLANT FARM
“Wildflowers of the North-west’”” by $ Sharp's Road,. Tullamarine, 3043
J. S. Beard, 85c (30 pp. full colour, Phone: 338-2893
70 pictures and map). OPEN WEEKENDS — CLOSED
King’s Park Booklet, 70c. Fundamentals MONDAYS
of Pruning, 50c. All prices post free. Constructions Phone: 306-6268

YOUR GUIDE TO NATIVE PLANT SEEDSMEN

Australian Seed Co., Robertson, N.S.W.—Bulk lots supplied te trade & Govt. agencies.

King’s Park Seed Supply, King’s Park Perth, Western Australia—see advertisement.

Nindethana, Box 5, Dripstone, N.S.W. For all Native Seed. Packet, ounce or pound Ilots.

Western Wildlife Supply, Gilgandra, N.S.W.—Bulk supplies of native and exotic tree and
shrub seed to the trade—Special collections to order.

WIN. HERRY'S “POTTERS’ COTTAGE NURSERY” IS NOW LOGATED AT
MANUKA NURSERY

BONNIE VIEW ROAD, CROYDON, VIC.
(Turn left off Maroondah Highway in between ‘“Kimberley Receptions’’ and ‘‘Bird and Bottle”
Restaurant)
OVER 500 VARIETIES OF AUSTRALIAN AND N.Z. PLANTS
Open Afternoons (Tues., Thurs., Sat., Sun., Holidays) or ’phone Croydon 33011



@@@ 52 @@@



Page 288—Vol. 5

AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—ORCHIDACEAE

TERRESTRIAL ORCHIDS

i ——"

B

Blocks by courtesy of John Sands Pty. Ltd.

SOME WEST AUSTRALIAN TERRESTRIAL ORCHIDS

These species have yet to be identified. Will readers please advise
their names and experiences in their cultivation. Future issues will describe

these plants and other related species. This issue describes how they may
be grown from seeds on page no. 260.

SURREY BEATTY & SONS, Printers, Rickard Road, Chipping Norton, N.S.W.—602-7404

March, 1970