Plant of the month 6/2020: Neofabricia myrtifolia

For a long time, this attractive large shrub has been a popular choice for native plant gardens. Right now it’s easy to see why, as specimens in Townsville gardens are currently full of flowers (mid June 2020). Neofabricia myrtifolia thrives in local gardens although it is not actually native to the Townsville area. It is …

Plant of the month 5/2020: Aidia racemosa

While the hills around Townsville are still very green, not many species are flowering or fruiting now. An attractive exception is Aidia racemosa. Its colourful fruits caught John Elliott’s attention this week (mid-May) out at Cape Cleveland, and earned it Plant of the Month status. The strongly perfumed flowers were photographed in January. See our …

Plant of the month 04/2020: Nauclea orientalis the “coronavirus tree”

Our regular meetings and outings remain suspended due to COVID-19 restrictions. To lighten the mood we chose a Plant of the Month that represents the cause of the global pandemic. But don’t worry, the plant presents NO infection risk! Nauclea orientalis, the Leichhardt tree, was dubbed the “coronavirus tree” by our friends at the Bush …

Plant of the month 03/2020: Abelmoschus moschatus subsp. tuberosus

The flowers of Abelmoschus moschatus, very familiar as our group’s logo, are currently making a bright show on hillsides around Townsville, prompting nomination as our Plant of the Month. These plants were almost invisible during our prolonged dry season but their hardy underground tubers (below) survive in a dormant state. They quickly sprout new growth …

Plants of the month 1/2020: Brunoniella acaulis and Curculigo ensifolia

In celebration of the New Year we have a double feature this month! Brunoniella acaulis and Curculigo ensifolia are fairly inconspicuous small plants until their bright flowers emerge. Then they prompt questions: what species is that? These are often among the first plants to flower after rain. Both species are flowering now, mid-January 2020, at …