STATEMENT OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - Advance...Uses for Native Plants of the Mornington Peninsula Page 7...

STATEMENT OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT This statement is written acknowledging the Boon Wurrung / Bunurong people, traditional custodians of these lands and waters. We pay respect all traditional custodians and to their Elders, past and present. Without their contributions and knowledge, creation of this document would not be possible.

COLLECTING BUSH TUCKER A permit is required to collect native plant material from public land. Native plant material includes flowers, seeds, leaves, cuttings, and any other part of the plant. Never eat plants that are growing in an area where they may have been sprayed with chemicals (pest or weed control), or where the water supply to the area could be polluted, such as from urban or industrial run-off. Many plants are toxic and indigestible to humans. Never eat any part of any wild growing plant unless you are absolutely certain you can identify it. Bush tucker plants and produce are available for purchase at many nurseries and food retailers.

ABOUT THIS BOOK The information in this book has been compiled during 2017 as part of a Work for the Dole research project. This activity was funded by the Australian Government and hosted by Advance Community College at the Hastings Community Hub. The plants in this book are indigenous to the Mornington Peninsula and are listed in alphabetical order according to their scientific name. Where possible we have included the indigenous language name for the plant, from many different language groups. The language group (in brackets) follows the indigenous name. The height and width indicated are the expected maximum size of the plant, but environmental conditions and other factors may limit or enhance growth. The plant type indicated is a general description of the plant; some species may potentially fall into two or more categories. The stated flowering period may also vary depending on environmental conditions and other factors. To help identify each plant a photograph has been sourced along with a written description of its physical attributes. Derivation of name explains the meaning and origin for the plant names and any other relevant issues with regards to its common or indigenous name. We have done our best to find what Indigenous Australians used each plant for, whether it is food, tools medicinal or something more specific. Propagation and maintenance notes have been written to assist if you decide to grow any of these species yourself.

Uses for Native Plants of the Mornington Peninsula

Page 3 of 86

Acacia dealbata ........................................... 6

Silver Wattle ............................................ 6

Acacia longifolia .......................................... 7

Acacia sophorae .......................................... 7

Coast Wattle............................................ 7

Golden Rods ............................................ 7

Acacia mearnsii ........................................... 8

Black Wattle ............................................ 8

Acacia melanoxylon .................................... 9

Blackwood ............................................... 9

Acacia verticillata ...................................... 10

Prickly Moses ........................................ 10

Acrotriche prostrata .................................. 11

Trailing Ground-berry ........................... 11

Acrotriche serrulata .................................. 12

Honey Pots ............................................ 12

Alisma plantago-aquatica ......................... 13

Water Plantain ...................................... 13

Mad Dog Weed ..................................... 13

Allocasuarina littoralis............................... 14

Black Sheoak ......................................... 14

Allocasuarina verticillata ........................... 15

Drooping Sheoak ................................... 15

Alyxia buxifolia .......................................... 16

Sea Box .................................................. 16

Apium prostratum ..................................... 17

Sea Celery .............................................. 17

Arthropodium milleflorum ........................ 18

Pale Vanilla-lily ...................................... 18

Arthropodium strictum ............................. 19

Chocolate Lily ........................................ 19

Astroloma humifusum .............................. 20

Cranberry Heath .................................... 20

Atriplex cinerea ......................................... 21

Grey Saltbush, Coast Saltbush .............. 21

Banksia integrifolia ................................... 22

Coast Banksia ........................................ 22

Banksia marginata .................................... 23

Silver Banksia ........................................ 23

Billardiera scandens .................................. 24

Common Apple-berry ........................... 24

Bolboschoenus caldwellii .......................... 25

Bolboschoenus medianus ......................... 25

Sea Clubsedge ....................................... 25

Marsh Club-rush ................................... 25

Bulbine bulbosa ........................................ 26

Bulbine Lily ............................................ 26

Burchardia umbellata ............................... 27

Milkmaids .............................................. 27

Caladenia dilatata ..................................... 28

Green-comb Spider-orchid ................... 28

Carex appressa .......................................... 29

Carex breviculmis ...................................... 29

Tall Sedge .............................................. 29

Common Grass-sedge ........................... 29

Carpobrotus rossii ..................................... 30

Karkalla ................................................. 30

Pigface ................................................... 30

Centipeda cunninghamii ........................... 31

Sneezeweed .......................................... 31

Chamaescilla corymbosa .......................... 32

Blue Stars .............................................. 32

Clematis aristata ....................................... 33

Clematis microphylla ................................ 33

Mountain Clematis, Goats Beard .......... 33

Small-leaved Clematis ........................... 33

Convolvulus arvensis ................................. 34

Convolvulus angustissimus ....................... 34


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Australian Bindweed ............................. 34

Pink Bindweed....................................... 34

Coprosma quadrifida ................................ 35

Prickly Currant Bush .............................. 35

Correa alba ................................................ 36

White Correa ......................................... 36

Dianella admixta ....................................... 37

Dianella laevis ........................................... 37

Dianella longifolia ..................................... 37

Dianella revoluta ....................................... 37

Flax-lily .................................................. 37

Dicksonia antarctica .................................. 38

Soft Tree-fern ........................................ 38

Dipodium punctatum ................................ 39

Hyacinth Orchid .................................... 39

Dodonea viscosa ....................................... 40

Hop Bush ............................................... 40

Enchylaena tomentose ............................. 41

Ruby Saltbush ........................................ 41

Eucalyptus obliqua .................................... 42

Messmate Stringybark .......................... 42

Eucalyptus viminalis subsp. pryoriana ...... 43

Coast Manna-gum ................................. 43

Exocarpos cupressiformis ......................... 44

Cherry Ballart ........................................ 44

Exocarpos strictus ..................................... 45

Pale-fruit Ballart .................................... 45

Geranium potentilloides ........................... 46

Geranium sp. 2 .......................................... 46

Soft Cranesbill ....................................... 46

Variable Cranesbill ................................ 46

Kennedia prostrata ................................... 47

Running Postman .................................. 47

Kunzea ericoides ....................................... 48

Burgan ................................................... 48

Kunzea pomifera ....................................... 49

Muntries................................................ 49

Leptospermum lanigerum ........................ 50

Woolly Tea-tree .................................... 50

Leptospermum petersonii ........................ 51

Lemon Scented Tea Tree ...................... 51

Leucopogon parviflorus ............................ 52

Coast beard-heath ................................ 52

Lomandra longifolia .................................. 53

Spiny-headed Mat-rush ........................ 53

Melaleuca ericifolia ................................... 54

Swamp Paperbark ................................. 54

Microseris lanceolata ................................ 55

Yam Daisy .............................................. 55

Muehlenbeckia adpressa .......................... 56

Climbing Lignum ................................... 56

Myoporum insulare .................................. 57

Boobiala ................................................ 57

Pelargonium australe ................................ 58

Austral Stork’s-bill ................................. 58

Persoonia juniperina ................................. 59

Prickly Geebung .................................... 59

Phragmites australis ................................. 60

Common Reed ...................................... 60

Poa labillardierei ....................................... 61

Common Tussock-grass ........................ 61

Podolepis jaceoides .................................. 62

Showy Podolepis ................................... 62

Prostanthera rotundifolia ......................... 63

Native Round Leaf Mint ........................ 63

Pteridium esculentum .............................. 64

Bracken Fern ......................................... 64

Rhagodia candolleana ............................... 65


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Sea-berry Salt Bush ............................... 65

Rubus parvifolius ....................................... 66

Native Raspberry ................................... 66

Sambucus gaudichaudiana ....................... 67

Native Elderberry .................................. 67

Sarcocornia quinqueflora .......................... 68

Beaded Glasswort ................................. 68

Solanum aviculare ..................................... 69

Kangaroo Apple ..................................... 69

Solanum laciniatum .................................. 70

Large Kangaroo Apple ........................... 70

Suaeda australis ........................................ 71

Seablite.................................................. 71

Syzygium australe ..................................... 72

Lilly Pilly ................................................. 72

Tasmannia lanceolata ............................... 73

Mountain Pepper .................................. 73

Tetragonia implexicoma ........................... 74

Bower Spinach ...................................... 74

Tetragonia tetragonioides ........................ 75

Warrigal Greens .................................... 75

Themeda triandra ..................................... 76

Kangaroo Grass ..................................... 76

Thysanotus tuberosus ............................... 77

Common Fringe-lily ............................... 77

Triglochin procera ..................................... 78

Water Ribbons ...................................... 78

Typha domingensis ................................... 79

Typhaceae domingensis ............................ 79

Typhaceae orientalis ................................ 79

Narrowleaf Cumbungi ........................... 79

Broadleaf Cumbungi ............................. 79

Bulrush .................................................. 79

Viola Banksii .............................................. 80

Ivy-leaf Violet ........................................ 80

Wahlenbergia stricta................................. 81

Sprawling Bluebell ................................ 81

Wurmbea dioica........................................ 82

Early Nancy ........................................... 82

Xanthorrhoea australis ............................. 83

Xanthorrhoea minor subsp. lutea ............. 83

Austral Grass-tree ................................. 83

Small Grass-tree .................................... 83


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Acacia dealbata

Common name(s) Silver Wattle Indigenous name(s) Muyan, Giigandul

(Wurundjeri) Warrarak (Djadja wurrung)

Height, Width To 30m high Plant Type Canopy Tree Flowering Period July to November Description: A perennial tree up to 30m with silvery leaves 1-12cm long by 1-11cm broad. The flowers are made up of numerous smaller bright yellow flower heads and the fruit is a flattened pod 2-11.5cm long by 6-14mm broad. Derivation of Name: Acacia; Greek, a derivative from the name akakia referring to a thorny wattle on the Nile River in Egypt. Dealbata; from Latin, meaning ‘covered with white powder’. Uses: The bark has lots of cracks, making it stringy and ideal for string and rope making. The bark is also known to ooze resin which was prised by Aboriginal people who found it useful for waterproofing and gluing tools together, such as stone axe heads to a wooden handle. The resin was also eaten and could be mixed with ash from burnt bark and applied to wounds and sores. The wood was used widely to make digging sticks while the gum was dissolved in water to make a mild sweet drink and also mixed with ash for use as resin. The seed pods yield another important food source by grinding the pods between two grinding stones to make flour, which could then be used to make bread. Fallen wattle flowers were used to fish for eels, as they feed on a particular grub that lives in the flowers. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in loamy types of soil and can be positioned in full sun to full shade, with acidic or neutral soil pH. It is intolerant of any degree of salt.

photo by Eugene Zelenko


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Acacia longifolia Acacia sophorae

Common name(s) Coast Wattle Golden Rods Sallow Wattle

Indigenous name(s) Nal-a-wort (Buandig) Height, Width 8m high x 4m wide Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub Flowering Period July to October Description: A perennial, prostrate shrub reaching up to 8m by 4m. The oval leaves are 50-100mm long with prominent longitudinal veins. The bright yellow flowers occur as elongated spikes up to 50mm long in the leaves. Derivation of Name: Acacia; Greek, a derivative from the name akakia referring to a thorny wattle on the Nile River in Egypt. Longifolia; from the Latin word meaning ‘long leaves,’ a reference to the generally long foliage. Sophorae; derivation uncertain, possibly similar to some species in the genus Sophora. Note: Acacia sophorae is regarded by some authorities as a subspecies of Acacia longifolia which is usually much taller although the plants are very similar in other respects. Uses: Food (flowers, seeds and seed pods), yellow dye (from the flowers), green dye (pods) and wood. The tree's bark had limited use in tanning, primarily for sheepskin. The seed was roasted and ground, giving a brown mustard colour and a nutty coffee-like flavour. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in well-drained, sandy types of soil and can be positioned in full sun to full shade with adequate watering. It has some degree of salt tolerance.

photo by: Donald Hobern


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Acacia mearnsii

Common name(s) Black Wattle Indigenous name(s) Garrong (Wurundjeri)

Warrarakk (Djab wurrung) Currong (Lake Condah) Garrong (Woi wurrung)

Height, Width 5-15m high Plant Type Canopy Tree Flowering Period October to December Description: An perennial tree that grows 5-15m high with dark green leaves to 4mm. Flowers are pale yellow or cream with globular flower heads in large, fragrant sprays. Fruits are dark brown pods and finely hairy. Derivation of Name: Acacia; Greek, a derivative from the name akakia referring to a thorny wattle on the Nile River in Egypt. Mearnsii; named after A.R Mearns, an American army surgeon who collected a specimen from a cultivated tree in Kenya. Uses: The plant was an important source of gum, used as a glue to make and repair tools. A sweet drink could also be made when the gum and flower nectar were dissolved in water. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in a damp, well-drained, loamy type of soil and can be positioned in full sun to full shade. It is intolerant of any degree of salt.

photo by: Forest and Kim Starr


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Acacia melanoxylon

Common name(s) Blackwood Indigenous name(s) Burn-Na-Look

(Wurundjeri) Mootch-Ong (Jardwadjali)

Height, Width 6-30m high Plant Type Canopy Tree Flowering Period August to October

Description: A perennial dark brown tree growing around 6-30m in height with wood that is deeply furrowed. It produces masses of pale yellow flowers in clusters. Derivation of Name: Acacia; Greek, a derivative from the name akakia referring to a thorny wattle on the Nile River in Egypt. Melanoxylon; from the Latin words melās meaning ‘black’ and ksulon meaning ‘wood.’ Uses: The bark was used to treat aching joints by heating the bark over a fire and infusing in water. The very hard wood was used to make shields, clubs and spear-throwers. The seeds were collected and ground into flour for cooking while twigs and bark were also used to poison fish as a way of fishing. Indigenous Australians derived an analgesic from the tree while other medicinal purposes included a body wash to treat cuts and sores, as a mouthwash and to treat infection and stomach cramps. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp, loam soils and can be positioned in full sun to full shade. It has a moderate degree of salt tolerance.

photo by: Lachlan Knowles


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Acacia verticillata

Common name(s) Prickly Moses Indigenous name(s) Berrigan (Wiradjuri)* Height, Width Up to 6m Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub Flowering Period Fruiting Period

July to November November to January

Description: A perennial shrub growing to around 6m, with an often rounded shape. The leaves are dark green, spine-like, to 2cm, in whorls around the stem and pale yellow flowers appear on short spikes, up to 1cm long. Derivation of Name: Acacia; Greek, a derivative from the name akakia referring to a thorny wattle on the Nile River in Egypt. Verticillata; from the Latin word verticillus meaning ‘whorl’, referring to the leaves arranged in whorls. *This name is generally used for all Acacia sp. Uses: Aboriginal people ate the seeds, which are high in protein and carbohydrates, and hung the blossoms near where they slept to help induce sleep. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained, clay or sandy soils and flourishes best in full shade. It has some degree of salt tolerance and prefers alkaline soil pH. Excellent bird habitat. Prune following flowering to keep bushy.

photo by: A. Barra


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Acrotriche prostrata

Common name(s) Trailing Ground-berry Indigenous name(s) Unknown Height, Width 15cm to 2m high Plant Type Ground Cover Flowering Period May to September

Description: An open, prostrate, perennial plant, growing from 15cm to 2m with the shorter branches being hairy and triangular leaves around 4-16mm x 1-8mm. Dense spikes of small tubular flowers with open lobes and succulent egg-shaped fruit. Derivation of Name: Acrotriche; from the Greek words akron meaning ‘summit’ and thrix meaning ‘hair’; alluding to the tuft of hairs at the tip of the petal lobes. Prostrata; from Latin, meaning ‘prostrate’, referring to the growing habits of the plant. Uses: The nectar from flowers could be drunk and the fruit was eaten raw. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained, soils and flourishes best in full sun or partial shade.

photo by: Laura Levens


Page 12 of 86

Acrotriche serrulata

Common name(s) Honey Pots Indigenous name(s)

Burgil-burgil (Coranderrk, Wurundjeri)

Height, Width 10-30cm x 0.5-1m Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period May to October

Description: A dense, mounding shrub that grows from 10-30cm x 0.5-1m with small soft needle-like leaves 3.5-11mm long. The leaves and branchlets are covered in fine hairs while translucent tubular flowers are filled with nectar, clustered on old wood. Small round white fruit. Derivation of Name: Acrotriche; from the Greek words akron meaning ‘summit’ and thrix meaning ‘hair’; alluding to the tuft of hairs at the tip of the petal lobes. Serrulata; from the Latin word serrulatus meaning ‘small-toothed,’ referring to leaf margins. Uses: The nectar was sucked from directly flowers or they were soaked in water to make a sweet drink. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp soils and flourishes best in partial shade.

photo by: Lisette Mill


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Alisma plantago-aquatica

Common name(s) Water Plantain Mad Dog Weed

Indigenous name(s) Unknown Height, Width Stems to 1m Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period June to August

Description: A perennial plant that grows in shallow water, consisting of a fibrous root, several basal long stemmed leaves 15-30cm long, and a triangular stem up to 1m tall. It has branched inflorescence bearing numerous small flowers, 1cm across, with three round or slightly jagged, white or pale purple petals. The flowers open in the afternoon. There are three blunt green sepals, and six stamens per flower. The carpels often exist as a flat single whorl. Derivation of Name: Alisma; the ancient Greek name for a plantain-leaved plant. Plantago; from the Latin word planta meaning ‘sole of a foot,’ referring to the flat leaves that are similar to leaves of the genus Plantago. Aquatica; from the Latin aquaticus meaning ‘living in water,’ referring to the plant’s habitat. The plant is also known as mad-dog weed, alluding to its use as a cure for rabies. Uses: A powder prepared from dried roots is used in popular medicine as a cure for rabies and crushed leaves are used against mammary congestion while fresh leaves are employed in homeopathy. The roots have been used as a traditional medicine but may have serious side effects. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant can only grow in water free of salt, and flourishes best in full sun.

photo by: Christian Fischer


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Allocasuarina littoralis

Common name(s) Black Sheoak Indigenous name(s) Wayetuck (Woi wurrung)

Gneering (Gunditjmara) Height, Width 6-15m high Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub Flowering Period September to November

Description: A small, narrow tree between 6m and 15m high with dark grey bark and needle like foliage. The fruit are 10-30mm in length and flat topped. Derivation of Name: Allocasuarina; from the neo-Latin word casuarius, meaning ‘cassowary,’ referring to the resemblance of the drooping branchlets to the feathers of the cassowary bird. Allos; from Greek, meaning ‘other,’ referring to the relationship with the genus Casuarina. Littoralis; from Latin, meaning ‘of the shore, seashore or coast.’ Uses: The wood was used to make boomerangs and other tools. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in clay or sandy soils and flourishes best in partial shade. It has some degree of salt tolerance and prefers alkaline or acidic soil pH.

photo by: John Tann


Page 15 of 86

Allocasuarina verticillata

Common name(s) Drooping Sheoak Indigenous name(s) Wayetuck (Woi wurrung)

Gneering (Gunditjmara) Brakbrak (L.Hindmarsh)

Height, Width Up to 10m high Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub Flowering Period March to December

Description: A small tree to 10m height with dark grey bark. The crown of the tree has drooping branchlets, about 0.8cm thick, to 40cm long. Male flowers are yellowish-brown. Cones on female trees are 2-3cm wide and barrel shaped. Derivation of Name: Allocasuarina; from the neo-Latin word casuarius, meaning ‘cassowary,’ referring to the resemblance of the drooping branchlets to the feathers of the cassowary bird. Allos; from Greek, meaning ‘other,’ referring to the relationship with the genus Casuarina. Verticillata; from the Latin word verticillatus meaning ‘whorl,’ referring to the leaves arranged in whorls. Uses: The timber was used by Aboriginal people to make handles for stone axes, which were fixed using string and resin from other plants. Wood was also used to make boomerangs and other implements. Young shoots and cones could be eaten. Toothache and other pains were relieved by a gargle made from the sapwood and bark. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in dry, well-drained soil types and full sun to full shade. It has some degree of salt and lime tolerance.

photo by: John Tann

photo by: Tindo2


Page 16 of 86

Alyxia buxifolia

Common name(s) Sea Box Indigenous name(s) Unknown Height, Width 50cm to 2m high Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period Fruiting Period

Spring to Autumn December to February

Description: A perennial shrub growing to around 3m in height, but in sheltered positions (under eucalypts) can grow taller. The branches are held upright, but with opposite oval leaves they can become quite bushy, although in very dry exposed locations plants can also be short, open and sparse. The small tubular orange and white flowers grow to around 1cm long. Derivation of Name: Alyxia; from the Greek word alysis meaning ‘a chain or an escape,’ which may refer to the chain fruit or indicate the remote areas in which it was found. Buxifolia; from buxus, the genus of ancient box tree and the Latin folium meaning ‘leaf,’ referring to the species having leaves like the boxwood. Uses: The Aboriginal people used the bark to treat dysentery. The fruit is eaten by birds but is toxic to humans. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in sandy, loamy soil types and placed in partial shade. It has some degree of salt and lime tolerance.

photo by: Melburnian


Page 17 of 86

Apium prostratum

Common name(s) Sea Celery Indigenous name(s) Unknown Height, Width To 70cm Plant Type Ground Cover Flowering Period October to May

Description: A perennial ground covering plant with branches from 30-70cm long and leaves 2-40cm long. The flowers are in small clusters 3.5-7cm wide on short stalks to 20mm long. Sea Celery can be found growing wild along the southern coastline of Australia. A close relative of European parsley, this drought-tolerant, frost-tolerant plant loves the sun, but can still thrive in dappled shade. Small white flower clusters will provide ample seeds toward the end of summer. Derivation of Name: Apium; the ancient Latin name for celery or parsley. Prostratum; from Latin, meaning ‘flat, on the ground or prostrate,’ referring to the growing habit. Uses: The young shoots were used as a flavoursome herb or vegetable which reportedly tastes of both celery and parsley with a little saltiness and some residual bitterness. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained soil types and positioned in partial shade. It has some degree of salt and prefers acidic or neutral soil pH.

photo by: Zaareo


Page 18 of 86

Arthropodium milleflorum

Common name(s) Pale Vanilla-lily Indigenous name(s) Bo-an (Bunganditj-SA) Height, Width 0.3-1.3m x 30cm Plant Type Lily Flowering Period September to February

Description: A tufted perennial herb growing between 0.3-1.3m x 30cm with small plump tubers at the end of roots and narrow, flat, spreading, slightly fleshy leaves to 40cm x 1-25mm. When flowering, 2-9 pale pink, pale mauve or white flowers form at the nodes. Derivation of Name: Arthropodium; from the Greek words arthron meaning ‘a joint’ and podion meaning ‘a little foot,’ alluding to the jointed pedicels. Milleflorum; from the Latin words mille meaning ‘a thousand’ and floris meaning ‘flowers.’ Uses: The non-starchy crisp tubers were eaten either raw or cooked. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained soil types and positioned in full sun to full shade. It prefers acidic or neutral soil pH and is salt intolerant. Plants may be propagated from seed or by dividing the tubers.

photo by: Nathan Johnson


Page 19 of 86

Arthropodium strictum

Common name(s) Chocolate Lily Indigenous name(s) Unknown Height, Width 0.2-1m x 0.2-0.8m Plant Type Lily Flowering Period September to December

Description: A tufted perennial herb growing between 0.2-1m x 0.2-0.8m and having narrow, flat, leaves around 10-60cm x 1-10mm. The branched flowering stems have single fragrant flowers on erect stalks around 35mm long and are a deep pink or mauve colour. Derivation of Name: Arthropodium; from the Greek words arthron meaning ‘a joint’ and podion meaning ‘a little foot,’ alluding to the jointed pedicels. Strictus; from Latin meaning ‘erect or upright,’ referring to the species habit. Uses: The tubers were eaten either raw or roasted. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in loam or sandy well-drained soil types and positioned in full sun or partial shade and is salt intolerant.



Page 20 of 86

Astroloma humifusum

Common name(s) Cranberry Heath Indigenous name(s) Bagud (Wergaia) Height, Width 20-50cm x 50-150cm Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period February to June

Description: A spreading perennial shrub up to 50cm high and 0.5-1.5m across with pine-like leaves 0.5-1.2cm long. The tubular flowers are up to 2cm long and red in color. Flowers are followed by green globular berries around 0.4-0.6cm across. Derivation of Name: Astroloma; from the Greek words astron meaning ‘star’ and loma meaning ‘fringe,’ alluding to the tufts of hair inside the corolla tube. Humifusum; from the Latin humus meaning ‘low-growing,’ alluding to its prostrate habit. Uses: The edible berries can be used to make jams and preserves with a sweet flavour. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in well-drained, dry clay or sandy soils and positioned in full sun or partial shade. It is salt intolerant.



Page 21 of 86

Atriplex cinerea

Common name(s) Grey Saltbush, Coast Saltbush

Indigenous name(s) Tyulern (Vic)* Height, Width To 1m x 2m Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period August to January

Description: A perennial shrub up to 1m high and 2m wide, with silver-grey lance-shaped to oblong leaves, up to 10cm long with a blunt apex and a short stalk. Derivation of Name: Atriplex; from the Latin word atriplexum meaning ‘an orache,’ or saltbush, an Ancient Latin name for this plant. Cinerea; from Latin meaning ‘ashy-grey,’ alluding to the grey appearance of the plant. *Indigenous name is for Atriplex nummularia, a similar plant. Uses: The leaves were steeped in water to remove salt, rinsed thoroughly, and then eaten as greens. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in free draining, sandy soils of an alkaline pH and positioned in full sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance. Easy to grow from cuttings. Plant layers itself producing adventitious roots off decumbent stems. Seed and cuttings may be collected at any time. Cuttings establish well in river sand.




Page 22 of 86

Banksia integrifolia

Common name(s) Coast Banksia Indigenous name(s) Birrna (Gunai/Kurnai)

War-rak (Wurundjeri) Height, Width 4-20m high Plant Type Canopy Tree Flowering Period February to July

Description: A perennial tree that grows between 4 and 20m high. The leaves are around 10cm x 2cm, smooth and dark green on the upper face, with a white underside. The creamy yellow flowers are around 10cm x 4cm, arranged in tall spikes. Derivation of Name: Banksia; named after Sir Joseph Banks, the botanist who travelled with Captain Cook. Integrifolia; from the Latin integer, meaning ‘entire,’ and folium, meaning ‘leaf.’ Uses: The nectar was extracted from flower heads by brushing hands against the flower, and then licking the fingers clean. Flowers were also soaked in water to make a sweet drink which was often mixed with wattle gum. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in acidic or neutral pH soils and positioned in full sun. It has some degree of lime tolerance but is intolerant of salt.

photo by: John Tann


Page 23 of 86

Banksia marginata

Common name(s) Silver Banksia Indigenous name(s) War-Rak, Woorike

(Wurundjeri) Height, Width 1-12m Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub Flowering Period February to July

Description: A perennial shrub or tree between 1-12m tall with leaves up to 6cm x 1.3cm, smooth and dark green on the upper face, with a white underside. The creamy yellow flowers are around 10cm x 4cm, arranged in tall spikes. Derivation of Name: Banksia; named after Sir Joseph Banks, the botanist who travelled with Captain Cook. Marginata; from the Latin word marginatus meaning ‘bordered,’ referring to some forms in which the leaf margins are rolled-under. Uses: The flowers were soaked in water to extract the nectar and make a sweet drink. Curved branches were worked and shaped into boomerangs. As long as they were fresh the single flowers could be removed from the flower head and used as brushes to apply ceremonial makeup or paint. Any of the old, dry, flower heads were used as strainers and to carry fire from one campsite to the next. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in well-drained soils and positioned in full sun. It has some degree of salt and lime tolerance. Use fresh seed for propagation. Sow just beneath the soil from winter to spring, with germination taking place within 4-8 weeks. Cuttings can be taken from plants between August and October using firm young growth.

Immature Mature photos by: JJ Harrison


Page 24 of 86

Billardiera scandens

Common name(s) Common Apple-berry Indigenous name(s) Karrawang (Coranderrk)

Garawang (Wurundjeri) Height, Width To 1.5m x 3m Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period September to November

Description: A perennial shrub growing up to 1.5m high and 3m in width. The leaves alternate and are narrowly ovate, hairy and 1-4mm long. The fruits are oblong in shape, reddish green or yellow in color and 20-28mm long. Derivation of Name: Billardiera; named after Jacques Julien de La Billardiere, a 19th century French botanist who visited Western Australia and Tasmania. Scandens; from Latin meaning ‘to climb or sprawl,’ alluding to its growing habit. Uses: The ripe fruit could be eaten directly off the plant, while unripe fruit was roasted, reportedly with a taste like kiwi fruit. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in well-drained, dry soils and positioned in full sun to full shade. It has some degree of salt and lime tolerance. Flowers may also appear all year round. Propagation is more difficult for B. scandens than other Billardiera species. Summer sown seed may take up to 12 weeks to germinate in autumn. Treatments such as washing dried seeds in detergent, or straining seed after fermentation in water for two weeks may improve germination. Firm tip cuttings may be taken in summer.

photo by: John Tann


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Bolboschoenus caldwellii Bolboschoenus medianus

Common name(s) Sea Clubsedge Marsh Club-rush

Indigenous name(s) Belillah (Lower Murray R.) Woorpert (Lake Boga)*

Height, Width To 90cm Plant Type Grass, Sedge, or Rush Flowering Period October to April Description: B. caldwellii; A perennial sedge with smooth stems from 30-90cm high and 1-3.5mm diameter with leaves 2-7mm wide. The flowerheads are spikelet clusters on 1-4cm long branches with lens-shaped fruit, brown and 3.5-4mm long by 2.5-3mm diameter. B. medianus; A perennial, creeping sedge growing to 2m high bearing hard globose tubers and with three-sided stems. Grass-like, the leaves grow to 50cm long and 11mm wide. The flowers are formed in clusters of red brown spikes. Derivation of Name: Bolboschoenus; from the Greek words bolbos meaning ‘a bulb’ and schoenus, a genus of Cyperaceae from which it was considered separable by the swellings on the stem. Caldwellii; named after A. C. Caldwell, an enthusiastic collector and student of indigenous flora. Medianus; from Latin, meaning ‘in the middle.’ *This name is reported for B. medianus only, but may have been generally used for both sp. Uses: The roots were roasted and then eaten. Propagation and maintenance notes: B. caldwellii; The plant is best grown in damp sandy soils with an alkaline or neutral pH and positioned in partial sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance. B. medianus; The plant is best grown in damp loam soils and positioned in full sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance.

Bolboschoenus caldwellii photo by: Harry Rose


Page 26 of 86

Bulbine bulbosa

Common name(s) Bulbine Lily Indigenous name(s) Pike (Wurundjeri)

Parm (Gunditjmara) Puewan (Djab wurrung)

Height, Width To 75cm Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period September to January

Description: A densely tufted perennial herb that grows to 75cm high. The leaves are green-grey leaves and succulent, reaching 40cm in length while the bright yellow star-like flowers are approximately 2cm wide. Derivation of Name: Bulbine; from Latin, meaning ‘bulbous’, referring to the bulb-shaped tuber of many members of this genus. Bulbosa; from the Latin word bulbus meaning ‘bulb.’ Uses: The corm bulb was roasted, giving a sweet taste, as well as being highly nutritious. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp soil and positioned in partial sun. It is salt intolerant. Propagation can be performed by seed or division.

photo by: Velela


Page 27 of 86

Burchardia umbellata

Common name(s) Milkmaids Indigenous name(s) Popoto (Lake Condah) Height, Width 10-65cm Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period September to December

Description: A perennial herb growing 10-65cm in height, with narrow, fleshy leaves around 10-30cm x 3-6mm. The white, terminal clusters of honey-scented flowers are up to 30mm wide. The erect triangular seed capsules are green with white tips. Derivation of Name: Burchardia; named for German botanist Johann Heinrich Burckhardt. Umbellata; the Latin word for umbrella, referring to the umbels of flowers. Uses: The potato-like tubers and roots were eaten either raw or cooked, having a textured flesh with a starchy flavour. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained loam or sandy soils and positioned in partial sun. It is salt intolerant. Plants can be propagated from seeds.



Page 28 of 86

Caladenia dilatata

Common name(s) Green-comb Spider-orchid Indigenous name(s) Koolin (Coranderrk) Height, Width To 40cm Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period November to December

Description: A slender, erect, perennial shrub growing to 40cm high with hairy lance-shaped leaves to 13cm long x 15mm wide and single green flowers that have petals to 50mm long. Derivation of Name: Caladenia; is derived from the Ancient Greek words kalos meaning ‘beautiful’ and aden meaning ‘a gland,’ referring to the colourful lip of the flower. Dilatata; from the Latin dilatare meaning ‘widen, dilated or expanded,’ referring to the spreading segments or the petals which have expanded glandular tips. Uses: The round, paired tubers were eaten. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in well-drained soils and positioned in partial sun. It is salt intolerant. Use of orchids in gardens is not recommended, unless they already occur naturally, in which case they need to be protected. Removing orchids from the bush usually results in their death and further depletes remaining wild orchid populations.

photo by: denisbin


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Carex appressa Carex breviculmis

Common name(s) Tall Sedge Common Grass-sedge

Indigenous name(s) Bungud (Wemba Wemba) Height, Width Various Plant Type Grass, Sedge, or Rush Flowering Period Various

Description: C. appressa: A densely tufted perennial sedge growing between 0.5-1.2m x 0.5-1m. The bright green leaves are 2-12mm wide with long, narrow, yellow-brown flowerheads, around 4-45cm long. The fruit is egg shaped and long haired. Flowering: August to January. C. breviculmis: A densely tufted perennial sedge growing to around 10-35cm x 20-40cm with dark green leaves to 35cm x 2-3mm wide. Fruit with long hairs, pale green to yellow-brown. Flowering: August to December. Derivation of Name: Carex; the classical Latin name for sedge, perhaps from carere meaning ‘to be absent,’ as the upper spikes do not produce seeds. Appressa; from Greek, meaning ‘lying close together.’ Breviculmis; from the Latin words brevi meaning ‘short’ and culmus meaning ‘stem,’ usually describing a grass. Uses: The long stems were commonly split into separate fibres for twine and basket making. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp soil and positioned in full sun or partial sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance. Trim back by half every 2 to 3 years and fertilize with slow release fertilizer after trimming.

Carex breviculmis photo by: Keisotyo


Page 30 of 86

Carpobrotus rossii

Common name(s) Karkalla Pigface

Indigenous name(s) Wenddar (Tasmania) Katwort ( Gippsland) Puuyuupkil (Gunditjmara) Gadwud (Gunai/Kurnai) Keeng-a (Bunganditj)

Height, Width To 1m across Plant Type Ground Cover Flowering Period September to February Description: A prostrate, succulent perennial plant with stems to 1m long and 11mm diameter. The leaves are up to 10cm long and 11mm and flowers are large purple and daisy-like while the fleshy, fat red fruit grows to 25mm long. Derivation of Name: Carpobrotus; from the Greek words karpos meaning ‘fruit’ and brotos meaning ‘edible,’ referring to the succulent fruits which was eaten traditionally by Aboriginal people. Rossii; named after William Ross, a college lecturer, scientist and botanical collector, who first collected the plant. Uses: The most valued parts of the plant were the sweet red tasty fruit, with a flavour compared to strawberries, figs, kiwi fruit and raspberries. The fleshy leaves were also eaten cooked, and the juice from the leaves was used to soothe blisters, burns and pain from insect bites. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in dry, well-drained soils and positioned in partial sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance.



Page 31 of 86

Centipeda cunninghamii

Common name(s) Sneezeweed Indigenous name(s) Gukwonderuk

(Wotjobaluk) Height, Width To 20cm Plant Type Ground Cover Flowering Period Fruiting Period

September to February October to June

Description: An erect perennial herb growing about 20cm high with oblong leaves around 15mm long and 3-4mm wide. The tiny green globular flowers are 4-8mm across while the fruit is about 2mm long. Derivation of Name: Centipeda; from the Latin words centi meaning ‘hundred’ and ped meaning ‘foot,’ referring to the creeping stems. Cunninghamii; named after Allan Cunningham, an English botanist and explorer. Uses: Traditional methods of use most commonly involved binding leaves of the plant directly to the forehead or other parts of the body, so that body heat would release the plants oils which were then absorbed into the skin. The leaves and stems were also boiled down and used for the treatment of coughs, colds and skin irritations. It is believed to be a “cure-all” for a wide range of health problems, including arthritis. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp soil and positioned in full sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance. Easily grown from fresh seed and cuttings. Inclined to become invasive.

photo by: Tony Rodd


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Chamaescilla corymbosa

Common name(s) Blue Stars Indigenous name(s) Mudrurt (Lake Condah) Height, Width 7-25cm x 10-20cm Plant Type Ground Cover Flowering Period August to November

Description: A tufted perennial herb growing around 7-25cm x 10-20cm with slender tubers 2-3m long and dull green grass-like leaves 5-20cm x 2-12mm. The upright branched terminal clusters of 2-10 bright blue flowers are up to 15mm wide. Derivation of Name: Chamaescilla; from the Greek words chamai meaning ‘dwarf’ and skilla meaning ‘a squill or sea onion,’ a liliaceous plant of the Mediterranean region. Corymbosa; from the Latin word corymbosus meaning ‘a cluster of flowers.’ Uses: The elongated were tubers eaten raw or cooked. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp loam or sandy soils and positioned in partial sun. It is salt intolerant. Easily grown from seed. Fresh seed may produce best results. Seed has high viability, but it may be difficult to collect enough, as plants tend to grow in low densities.



Page 33 of 86

Clematis aristata Clematis microphylla

Common name(s) Mountain Clematis, Goats Beard Small-leaved Clematis

Indigenous name(s) Tarook (Gunditjmara, Tjapwurong)*

Height, Width To 15m high Plant Type Creeper Flowering Period August to March Description: C. arista; A woody climber up to 15m high with egg shaped leaves between 3-8cm x 1-5cm and creamy white bunches of flowers. C. microphylla; A dense climber reaching up to 5m with light green leaves to 30mm long and starry clusters of cream coloured flowers. Derivation of Name: Clematis; from the Greek word klematis, the name of a plant (Clematis vitalba), itself derived from klema, meaning ‘a twig,’ perhaps because of the twiggy branches. Aristata; from the Latin meaning ‘bearded,’ referring to the bristle-like appendage of the fruit. Microphylla; from the Greek words micros meaning ‘small’ and phyllon meaning ‘leaf.’ *The name ‘Tarook’ was also given to the roots of the bindweed. Uses: The taproot was dug up and roasted. Propagation and maintenance notes: C. arista; The plant is best grown in damp loam soil and positioned in partial sun or full shade. It is salt intolerant. C. microphylla; The plant is best grown in damp loam soil and positioned in partial sun or full shade. It is salt intolerant. Propagation can be carried out from fresh seed and from semi-hardened cuttings.

photos by: Melburnian


Page 34 of 86

Convolvulus arvensis Convolvulus angustissimus

Common name(s) Australian Bindweed Pink Bindweed

Indigenous name(s) Taaruuk (Gunditjmara, Djab wurrung)*

Height, Width Up to 1.5m wide. Plant Type Creeper Flowering Period September to April Description: A low, perennial creeper with thin, trailing or twining branches, spreading up to 1.5m. The leaves are arrow-shaped and very narrow while flowers vary from white through to pink, 20mm wide and funnel-shaped. The two species are very similar with C. arvensis flowering two months earlier in the year. Derivation of Name: Convolvulus; from the Latin name for some types of bindweed, convolvere meaning ‘to roll together or entwine.’ Angustissimus; from the Latin word angust meaning ‘narrow’ and the suffix issimus meaning ‘to the greatest degree,’ possibly referring to the shape of the leaves. *The name ‘Taaruuk’ was giving to the roots of the bindweed. Uses: The roots were boiled, kneaded into dough and then cooked to make a bread like food. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in loam or sandy soils and positioned in full sun or full shade. It is salt intolerant and prefers neutral or alkaline soil pH.

Convolvulus angustissimus photo by: Harry Rose


Page 35 of 86

Coprosma quadrifida

Common name(s) Prickly Currant Bush Indigenous name(s) Morr (Coranderrk) Height, Width 1-1.5m x 2-4m Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub Flowering Period Fruiting Period

September to December January to March

Description: An erect, open shrub with fine spines on branches and growing to 1-1.5m x 2-4m in size. The dull green elliptic leaves are around 5-15mm x 2-5mm. Edible red fruit are roughly spherical and up to 2cm across. Derivation of Name: Coprosma; from the Greek words kopros meaning ‘excrement,’ and osme meaning ‘smell,’ referring to the fetid leaf smell on most species. Quadrifida; from the Latin words quadri meaning ‘four’ and fida meaning ‘split into four parts.’ Uses: The sweet currant-like fruits were eaten directly off the shrub when ripe. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained soils and positioned in full sun or full shade. It is salt intolerant.



Page 36 of 86

Correa alba

Common name(s) White Correa Indigenous name(s) Unknown Height, Width Up to 1.5 high Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub Flowering Period June to October

Description: A perennial shrub growing to 1.5m in height with reddish-brown hairy new growth. The leaves are near circular, have a rounded tip and are around 1.5 to 3.5 by 1 to 2.7cm. The white flowers have four petals and are up to 5cm across. Derivation of Name: Correa; named after Jose Francisco Correa de Serra, a Portuguese botanist. Alba; from the Latin word albus meaning ‘white,’ referring to the colour of its flowers. Uses: The leaves were used to make a drink similar to tea. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in well-drained sandy soil and positioned in full sun to partial shade. It has some degree of salt tolerance. Can be pruned to maintain shape and used as a hedge plant.

photo by: WFTD Hastings


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Dianella admixta Dianella laevis

Dianella longifolia Dianella revoluta

Common name(s) Flax-lily Indigenous name(s) Murmbal (Gunditjmara)* Height, Width Various Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub Flowering Period August to May

Description: D. admixta; An open tufting perennial shrub growing between 0.3-0.8m x 0.5-1.5m. The dark green leaves are paler on the lower surface and around 15-65cm x 0.5-1.2cm. Open, cone shaped flower heads are blue to violet in colour.

D. laevis**; An upright tufted perennial shrub growing between 0.3-0.8m x 0.5m in height with spreading bright green leaves around 20-80cm x 4-12mm and open pale blue flower heads.

D. longifolia; An upright, narrowly tufted perennial shrub around 0.3-0.8m x 0.5m with bright green strap leaves, 20-80cm x 4-12mm, and open blue flower heads.

D. revoluta; A perennial shrub growing to about 1m in height and has a diameter of up to 1.5m. The leaves are from 1.5-8.5cm by from 4-15mm. The flowers measure 7-12mm in length and fruit, 4-10mm across, are blue to purple. Derivation of Name: Dianella; a diminutive of Diana, the Roman goddess of hunting and the moon. The original species was found located in the French woods, thus the hunting association. Admixta; from the Latin word admixtus meaning ‘mixed or contaminated.’ Laevis; from Latin meaning of comparatively little physical weight or density. Longifolia; from the Latin word meaning ‘long leaves,’ a reference to the generally long foliage. Revoluta; from the Latin word revolut, which means ‘rolled back,’ referring to the petals which curl back. *This name is for D. revoluta but may have been used for all Dianella sp. ** D.laevis has been renamed to D.longifolia in all states but Victoria. Uses: The ripe berries have a sweet flavour, which becomes nutty once seeds are chewed. Berries can also be made into cordial. The leaves, split down the midrib can be rolled to make string. The blue berries can be made into a dye. Propagation and maintenance notes: D. admixta; Well drained dry clay soils. D. laevis; Moist well drained soils. D. longifolia; Moist soil for growth but tolerates dryness. D. revolute; Moist well drained soils. All species can tolerate some salt and any soil pH type. The species is propagated successfully from seed or roots.

Dianella revoluta photo by: Sam Genas


Page 38 of 86

Dicksonia antarctica

Common name(s) Soft Tree-fern Indigenous name(s) Combadik (Coranderrk)

Garag (Gunai/Kurai) Kum-ba-da (Woi wurrung) Wonon tulong (Djab wurrung)

Height, Width Up to 15m Plant Type Canopy Tree Flowering Period NA Description: A fern growing to 15m in height with large dark green roughly textured fronds in a spreading canopy of up to 6m in diameter. Derivation of Name: Dicksonia; named in honour of James Dickson, a prominent British nurseryman. Antarctica; comes from the species relative ‘southern’ location, or the relative proximity of the tree fern to the cooler climates of Antarctic regions as opposed to many tree ferns from warmer climates, it does not grow in Antarctica. Uses: The upper part of the trunk was split open and the soft pithy tissue, rich in starch, was eaten either raw or cooked, reportedly tasting like a bitter turnip. The sap of the young fronds was placed onto insect bites to relieve the itchiness and pain. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in well-drained soil and positioned in partial sun to full shade. It prefers acidic or neutral soil pH and is salt intolerant. The species is propagated successfully from spores or cuttings.

photo by: fir0002


Page 39 of 86

Dipodium punctatum

Common name(s) Hyacinth Orchid Indigenous name(s) Unknown Height, Width 0.3-0.9m high Plant Type Ground Cover Flowering Period December to February

Description: An erect perennial herb with a leafless thick green to purplish-red stem around 0.3-0.9m high and pale pink flowers about 20-25mm across. Derivation of Name: Dipodium; from the Greek words di meaning ‘double’ and podion meaning ‘little foot,’ in reference to each flowers pollen mass being supported on two stipes, or stalks. Punctatum; from the Latin word punctatus meaning ‘spotted.’ Uses: The large, long, soft tubers were eaten. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in sandy soil and positioned in partial shade. It is salt intolerant.



Page 40 of 86

Dodonea viscosa

Common name(s) Hop Bush Indigenous name(s) Bururr (Wiradjuri) Height, Width 1.5-4m high Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub Flowering Period September to February

Description: An erect to spreading perennial shrub growing from 1.5 to 4m tall. The evergreen leaves are leathery and around 4-7.5cm long by 1-1.5cm wide and usually spoon shaped. The flowers are yellow to orange or red and produced in clusters about 2.5cm in length. The fruit is a capsule 1.5cm across and red to brown in colour. Derivation of Name: Dodonaea; named after a Flemish botanist of the 16th century, Rembert Dodoens. Viscosa; from the Latin term viscosus meaning ‘sticky.’ Uses: The very durable and tough wood was used for making weapons and tools, as well as for house building and firewood. The fruit was also used to make red dye. Toothache cuts and stings were treated using a poultice made from this plant. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in well-drained sandy soil and positioned in full sun. It has some degree of salt and lime tolerance. The species is propagated successfully from seed or cuttings.

photo by: J.M.Garg


Page 41 of 86

Enchylaena tomentose

Common name(s) Ruby Saltbush Indigenous name(s) Gurgudj (Wemba Wemba) Height, Width 1m x 1m Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period September to February

Description: A small perennial shrub, up to a metre in diameter with slender, hairy leaves around 6-15mm long. Fruits form as fleshy berries changing from bright green/yellow to bright red/orange when ripe. Derivation of Name: Enchylaena; from the Greek words egchlos meaning ‘fleshy or succulent’ and chlaena meaning ‘cloak or lined cloak,’ referring to the outer part of the flower. Tomentosa; from botanical Latin, meaning ‘covered with dense short curled or curved hairs.’ Uses: The tiny red flattened fruits, which have a salty, sweet flavour, were shaken off the bush and eaten raw. They have a small black stone inside, which was also eaten. The fruit was also soaked in water to make a sweet tea, while the leaves could be boiled and eaten as a vegetable. The small berry can vary in colour when ripe, from deep purple, through bright pink and red, to a golden yellow and orange. Because of the wide range of colours the berries were sometimes used to make dye. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp well-drained soil and positioned in full sun to full shade. It has some degree of salt tolerance. The species is propagated successfully from seed or cuttings.



Page 42 of 86

Eucalyptus obliqua

Common name(s) Messmate Stringybark Indigenous name(s) Wangnarra (Woi wurrung)

Warngar (Djab wurrung) Height, Width To 13-70m high Plant Type Canopy Tree Flowering Period December to March

Description: A tall tree with a dense canopy, between 13-70m in height. Leaves can be glossy green to 10-13cm x 3-4cm. Flowers appear in clusters of 7-15 and are either white or cream in colour. The fruit is barrel shaped and around 0.6-1.2cm long by 0.5-1.1cm wide. Derivation of Name: Eucalyptus; from the Greek roots eu and calyptos, meaning 'well' and 'covered', in reference to the flower bud. Obliqua; derived from the Latin obliquus meaning ‘oblique’ and describing a leaf base where the two sides of the leaf blade are of unequal length. Uses: The outer bark was powdered and used as tinder for fire making while inner bark was used to make coarse string for bags and fishing nets. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained, loamy soil and positioned in full sun to partial shade. It is salt intolerant.

photo by: Kim Starr


Page 43 of 86

Eucalyptus viminalis subsp. pryoriana

Common name(s) Coast Manna-gum Indigenous name(s)

Binnap (Yarra) Yulong (Djab wurrung) Wurun (Wurundjeri)

Height, Width 10-50m x 8-16m Plant Type Canopy Tree Flowering Period March to May

Description: A tree with peeling coarse bark growing to around 5-12m in height with a canopy spread of 8-16m. The leaves are dark green and slender while the white flowers appear in groups of three. Derivation of Name: Eucalyptus; from the Greek roots eu and calyptos, meaning 'well' and 'covered', in reference to the flower bud. Viminalis; from the Latin viminalis meaning ‘viminous or osier-bearing,’ referring to the resemblance of the adult foliage to that of the osier willow. Pryoriana; meaning unknown. Uses: The sugary white extrusions on leaves (manna) were gathered from the ground and eaten while the wood was often used to make shields and water containers. The smoke produced from burning the long, thin older leaves was believed to reduce fever. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in sandy soil and positioned in full sun. It prefers acidic soil and is somewhat salt tolerant.

photo by: HelloMojo


Page 44 of 86

Exocarpos cupressiformis

Common name(s) Cherry Ballart Indigenous name(s)

Nyora (Boon wurrung)* Palatt, Ballot (Lake Condah) Pul-loitch (Jajowerong)

Height, Width 3-10m x 3-6m Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub Flowering Period September to May Description: A bright yellowish-green shrub growing around 3-10m x 3-6m. The leaves are reduced to tiny triangular scales 0.5mm long along with tiny spikes to 8mm of minute yellow-green flowers. Hard round green fruit on edible fleshy orange to red stalk. Derivation of Name: Exocarpos; from the Greek words exo meaning ‘outside’ and caryon meaning ‘nut’ referring to the succulent flower stalk. Cupressiformis; meaning ‘shaped like the genus Cupressus,’ the classic Latin name for Italian Cypress. *This name applies to both Exocarpos sp. Uses: The ripe succulent red nut was picked from the stems and eaten as a springtime snack. The wood was used to make spear throwers, small clubs and digging sticks. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in clay or loam soil and positioned in full sun to partial shade. It is salt intolerant.



Page 45 of 86

Exocarpos strictus

Common name(s) Pale-fruit Ballart Indigenous name(s)

Nyora (Boon wurrung)* Ballat (Gippsland) Pallert (Lake Condah) Bulliyang, Bullyang (Barababaraba-VIC)

Height, Width 1-3m x 1-3m Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period August to November Description: Erect light to grey green shrub growing 1-3m x 1-3m in size with tiny scale like leaves and dense clusters of tiny yellow flowers. The shiny green fruit appear on fleshy white stalks. Derivation of Name: Exocarpos; from the Greek words exo meaning ‘outside’ and caryon meaning ‘nut’ referring to the succulent flower stalk. Strictus; from the Latin meaning ‘tight or close,’ referring to the dense flower clusters. *This name applies to both Exocarpos sp. Uses: The whitish fruits of the plant were eaten. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in well-drained soil and positioned in full sun to partial shade. It is somewhat salt tolerant.

photo by: John Tann

photo by: Donald Hobern


Page 46 of 86

Geranium potentilloides Geranium sp. 2

Common name(s) Soft Cranesbill Variable Cranesbill

Indigenous name(s)

Terrat (Woi wurrung, Coranderrk) Kullumkulkeeteech (Djab wurrung) Kawurn-Kallumbarrant (Gunditjmara)

Height, Width Varies Plant Type Ground Cover Flowering Period September to March Description: Potentilloides: A prostrate, hairy, perennial herb with stems to 1m long, with leaves around 0.5-4.5cm. The single, pale pink flowers are 10-15mm wide and on primary stalks 0-35mm long. Sp. 2: A prostrate, scrambling, perennial herb with stems to 80cm long and kidney-shaped leaves to 4cm long. The pale pink to white flowers are single or paired, 12mm wide, and on primary stalks 7-36mm long. Derivation of Name: Geranium; the Greek word for crane, perhaps referring to the flower being shaped like a crane’s bill. Potentilloides; resembling plants of the genus Potentilla. Uses: The tuberous roots were pounded before being cooked and eaten while the leaves and flower petals were also used as a food source. The plant also has medicinal purposes with the squashed leaves can be applied to burns and blisters, while the raw tuber could also be used as medicine for internal complaints such as diarrhoea. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp loam soil and positioned in full sun to partial shade. It is salt intolerant.

photo by: Robert Steers NPS


Page 47 of 86

Kennedia prostrata

Common name(s) Running Postman Indigenous name(s) Nall (Gunditjmara)

Kabin (Coranderrk) Height, Width To 2.5m across Plant Type Ground Cover Flowering Period April to November

Description: A prostrate perennial shrub growing around 1-2.5m wide with leaves divided into three crinkly, roundish blue-green leaflets 6-35mm x 6-35mm. The small, scarlet flowers appear in groups of 1-2. Derivation of Name: Kennedia; named for John Kennedy, a nurseryman from London. Prostrata; from the Latin word prostratus meaning ‘prostrate,’ referring to the plant lying along the ground. Uses: The nectar was sucked from red pea flowers as a source of fluid. Any trailing stems could be used as ties and twine, while the leaves were commonly used to make a drink similar to tea. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in loam soil and positioned in full sun. It is somewhat salt and lime tolerant. The species is propagated successfully from seed or cuttings.

photo by: gnangarra


Page 48 of 86

Kunzea ericoides

Common name(s) Burgan Indigenous name(s) Burgan (Wurundjeri) Height, Width Up to 18m Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub Flowering Period September to February

Description: A spreading perennial shrub or tree that grows to 18m with variable shaped leaves up to 25mm long and 5mm wide. The white flowers appear in clusters with petals about 2mm long. The fruits are capsules 2.0-4.5mm across with seeds 1.0-1.5mm across. Derivation of Name: Kunzea; named for Dr Gustav Kunze, professor of medicine and botany from Germany. Ericoides; referring to the similarity to Erica arborea. Uses: Kangaroo spears, fighting sticks, waddies and fighting boomerangs were made from the wood Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in loam soil and positioned in full sun to full shade. It is salt intolerant.

photo by: Steve Burrows


Page 49 of 86

Kunzea pomifera

Common name(s) Muntries Indigenous name(s) Munter, Monterry, Ngurp

(Bunganditj, Western Vic & SA)

Height, Width 0.3-05m x 2-5m Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period September to November

Description: A small perennial shrub or ground cover growing between 0.3-0.5m high and 2-5m across. The leaves are ovoid and green, to 5mm across, with reddish stems and clusters of creamy flowers. The edible fruit is fleshy and purple, up to 15mm long containing small brown seeds. Derivation of Name: Kunzea; named for Dr Gustav Kunze, professor of medicine and botany from Germany. Pomifera; from the Latin words pomum meaning apple and ferre meaning ‘to bear,’ referring to the small apple shape fruit the plant produces. Uses: The berries of Muntries have a spicy, stewed apple flavour. The berries or products made from Kunzea pomifera are becoming more popular and are seen often in Australian bushfood markets. Muntries hold significance in the traditional diet of the Narrindjeri people of the Coorong in the south-east of South Australia where they were eaten as fresh fruit and made into a paste. Early European settlers also incorporated the berries of Muntries in pies, jellies, preserves, chutneys and relishes. Interestingly, Kunzea pomifera was one of the earliest species from Australia to be introduced into cultivation in England in the late 1800s. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained soils of a neutral pH and positioned in full sun to partial shade. It is somewhat salt tolerant. The species is propagated successfully from seed or cuttings.

photo by: Nadiatalent


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Leptospermum lanigerum

Common name(s) Woolly Tea-tree Indigenous name(s) Balung (Gunai/Kurnai)

Woolerp (Wurundjeri) Height, Width 2-6m x 1-3m Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub Flowering Period September to January

Description: A dense perennial shrub around 2-6m x 1-3m in size with silvery leaves between 4-20mm x 1.5-4mm and masses of open white flowers up to 15mm wide. The hairy fruit are capsule shaped and around 5-10mm across. Derivation of Name: Leptospermum; from the Greek words leptos meaning ‘slender,’ and perma meaning ‘seed.’ Lanigerum; from the Latin word for wool-bearing, referring to the hairy leaves and hairy buds. Uses: The twigs and branches were used for spears and digging sticks while leaves could be used as a treatment for scabies and medicine for breathing difficulties. A drink similar to tea was also made from the leaves and historical records indicate that it was used by early settlers in the belief that it would help prevent scurvy. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp alkaline soils and positioned in partial sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance. The species is propagated successfully from seed or cuttings.



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Leptospermum petersonii

Common name(s) Lemon Scented Tea Tree Indigenous name(s) Baruna (Wiradjuri-Vic)* Height, Width 3-7m x 2-5m Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub Flowering Period October to February

Description: A perennial shrub growing around 3-7 by 2-5m in size with tan or grey bark, lemon scented leaves up to 4cm long and clusters of small white flowers. Derivation of Name: Leptospermum; from the Greek words leptos meaning ‘slender,’ and perma meaning ‘seed.’ Petersonii; named after WJ Peterson, who collected the first specimen. *This name is generally used for all Leptospermum sp. Uses: The leaves were gathered from the wild for use as a tea and to extract an essential oil, with both having antibacterial properties. Captain Cook and early explorers used the tips to make a tea to prevent scurvy. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in well-drained soil types of a neutral pH and positioned in full sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance and can be kept to shrub height by pruning. The plant is sometimes grown as an ornamental.

photo by: Raffi Kojian

photo by: Raffi Kojian


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Leucopogon parviflorus

Common name(s) Coast beard-heath Indigenous name(s) Ngoor-le (Buandig) Height, Width 1.2-5m high Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub Flowering Period July to November

Description: An erect perennial shrub growing up to 1.2-5m high with elliptic leaves around 11-29mm long and 2.4-7.5mm wide. The white flowers appear in clusters of 7-13 with white fruit 4.3-5mm long while the fruit is a globular white berry around 4-5mm across. Derivation of Name: Leucopogon; from the Greek leukoni meaning ‘white’ and pogon meaning ‘beard,’ alluding to the white-bearded petal lobes. Parviflorus; from the Latin parvi meaning ‘small’ and floris meaning ‘flower.’ Uses: The white fruit was eaten when sweet and ripe, being high in nutrients and fluids. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in well-drained loam or sandy soils with a neutral pH and positioned in partial sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance.

photo by: Stephen Bain


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Lomandra longifolia

Common name(s) Spiny-headed Mat-rush Indigenous name(s) Karawun (Woi wurrung) Height, Width 0.5-1m x 0.5-1.2m Plant Type Grass, Sedge, or Rush Flowering Period September to February

Description: A perennial tussock grass between 0.5-1m x 0.5-1.2m with green leaves around 0.5-1m x 4-10mm. The scented yellow flowers appear in rings on flower spikes 12-50cm long, with the male flowers being branched. Derivation of Name: Lomandra; from the Greek words loma meaning ‘edge,’ and aner meaning ‘male,’ because of the bordered anthers of some species. Longifolia; from the Latin words longi meaning ‘long’ and folia meaning ‘leaf.’ Uses: The leaves were woven into bags, baskets and mats while the leaf base, containing starch and water, was chewed to avoid dehydration. Edible flowers could be soaked to extract the nectar and are said to have a taste like green fresh peas. The seeds would be ground for use in damper. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in moist soil types of a neutral pH and positioned in partial sun. It has some degree of salt. The species is propagated successfully from seed or clump division.



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Melaleuca ericifolia

Common name(s) Swamp Paperbark Indigenous name(s) Barlan (Ganai) Height, Width Up to 9m high Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period October to November

Description: A tall, dense shrub with brownish papery bark growing to 9m high. The dark green leaves are alternately arranged and around 5-18mm by 0.5-1.7mm in size. Creamy white flowers appear in spikes on the end of branches, with petals up to 2.2mm long. Following the flowers, the fruits are woody capsules 2.5-3.6mm by 3-5mm, arranged along the stems. Derivation of Name: Melaleuca; from the Greek words melas meaning ‘black’ and leukos meaning ‘white,’ referring to black fire scars on white trunks. Ericifolia; a reference to the similarity of the leaves of this species to those of Erica in the family Ericaceae. Uses: Aborigines used the flowers for a sweet drink whilst the soft papery bark was used to swaddle babies. The harder bark was used to make fishing floats while the wood was suitable for spears, clubs and digging sticks. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp, loam or sandy soils and positioned in full to partial sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance.

photo by: John Tann



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Microseris lanceolata

Common name(s) Yam Daisy Indigenous name(s) Murnong (Wurundjeri)

Pun’yin (Djab wurrung) Muurang (Gunditjmara)

Height, Width 15-50cm x 15-25cm Plant Type Ground Cover Flowering Period October to April

Description: A perennial herb growing around 15-50cm x 15-25cm with tufts of leaves 5-30cm x 2-15mm in size and single, bright yellow daisy flower heads to 20mm wide on stalks up to 50cm long. Derivation of Name: Microseris; from the Greek words micros meaning ‘small’ and seris, the word for chicory. This is a reference to the tuberous roots, like small chicory roots. Lanceolata; from Latin word meaning ‘lance shaped,’ referring to the leaves. Uses: The tubers were eaten either cooked or raw and in the latter case they tasted crisp and bland. They were mostly cooked overnight in rush baskets placed in ground ovens and when cooked this way, produced a sweet syrup with a coconut flavour. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in dry, well-drained soils and positioned in partial sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance. The species is propagated successfully from seeds, which germinate in a couple of weeks.

photo by: Lorraine Oliver

photo by: Grassy Ecosystems


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Muehlenbeckia adpressa

Common name(s) Climbing Lignum Indigenous name(s) Karren (Wemba Wemba) Height, Width Stems to 1m long Plant Type Creeper Flowering Period All Year

Description: A prostrate or climbing plant with red-brown stems up to 1m long and bright green leaves around 1.5-6cm by 1.5-3.5cm. The green-yellow flowers occur in clusters spread evenly along the branches. Derivation of Name: Muehlenbeckia; named after H. G. Muehlenbeck, a 19th century French physician. Adpressa; from the Latin word adpressus meaning ‘pressed against or lying flat against.’ Uses: The fruit was ground into flour and the stem extract was drunk for stomach problems. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in dry, loam or sandy soils and positioned in full sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance.



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Myoporum insulare

Common name(s) Boobiala Indigenous name(s) Bubiala (SE-Tasmania) Height, Width Up to 6m high Plant Type Small Tree/Large Shrub Flowering Period August to November

Description: A prostrate perennial shrub growing to 6m high with smooth green leaves, around 30-90mm long and 7-22mm wide. White flowers with purple spots appear in clusters of 3-8 and are 6-8mm across while round purple fruit is 4.5-9mm across. Derivation of Name: Myoporum; from the Greek words myo meaning ‘shut’ and poros meaning ‘a pore,’ which refers to the glands on the leaf. Insulare; a Latin word meaning ‘from an island,’ referring to the coastal or island habitat. Uses: The salty fruit was eaten, having a sweet and sometimes bitter taste. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in well-drained, alkaline, sandy soils and positioned in full sun to full shade. It has some degree of salt tolerance. This species is easily propagated from cuttings.



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Pelargonium australe

Common name(s) Austral Stork’s-bill Indigenous name(s) Terrat (Wurundjeri) Height, Width 0.3-0.6m x 0.3-1m Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period October to March

Description: A perennial herb growing up to about 0.5m with hairy stems and leaves that are oval and 30-40mm long. The flowers are usually white with red streaks and occur on long stalks in groups of up to 12 flowers. Derivation of Name: Pelargonium; from the Greek word pelargos meaning ‘a stork,’ referring to the awned petal resembling a stork's bill. Australe; from the Latin word meaning ‘southern,’ referring to the species distribution in the southern part of Australia. Uses: Aborigines roasted the slender tap root which is high in starch but bitter to taste. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in well-drained, alkaline, sandy soils and positioned in partial sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance. The species is easily propagated from cuttings and can tolerate dry conditions once established.

photo by: Magnus Manske


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Persoonia juniperina

Common name(s) Prickly Geebung Indigenous name(s) Geebung (Dharug), *

Jibbong (Wirandjru)* Height, Width 0.3-1.5m x 0.6-0.8m Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period December to March

Description: An erect prickly shrub around 0.3-1.5m by 0.6-0.8m with bright green leaves 8-30mm by 0.7-1.5mm in size. The single hairy, yellow, tubular flowers occur in leaf axils, followed by yellow-green to purplish succulent fruit. Derivation of Name: Persoonia; named after Christiaan Hendrik Persoon, a South African born Dutch botanist. Juniperina; meaning ‘juniper-like’ referring to the species resembling plants from the genus Juniperus. *This name is generally used for all Persoonia sp. Uses: The fruits were an important Aboriginal food and would be eaten either raw or cooked. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in well-drained, sandy soils with an acidic or neutral pH and positioned in full sun to partial sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance. Propagation has been successful from cuttings of very young growth, which can be very slow to form roots. The plant can be pruned, making it suitable for hedges.



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Phragmites australis

Common name(s) Common Reed Indigenous name(s)

Djarg (Wemba Wemba, Wergaia) Jaark (Lake Boga) Kaerk (Djab wurrung) Taark, Taerk (Gunditjmara) Tark, Tark-korn (Wathaurong) Kowat (Gunai/Kurnai) Charr-ak (Jajowerong)

Height, Width 3.6m x 3m Plant Type Grass, Sedge, or Rush Flowering Period July to September Description: A perennial grass growing to 3.6m x 3m, with stems to 4m and blue-green leaves about 4cm across. The purple or golden clusters of flowers are around 5mm in size. Derivation of Name: Phragmites; from the Greek word phragma meaning ‘a fence or screen,’ referring to the plant’s habit of growing in dense colonies and forming a screen of plants. Australis; from the Latin word meaning ‘southern,’ referring to the species distribution in the southern part of Australia. Uses: The underground shoots were eaten while roots could be dug up and roasted until crisp, with a non-starchy flavour. Tubers were also used as a medicine for arthritis, jaundice and food poisoning. Sections of reed were strung into necklaces and used as nose ornaments while the straight stems also used as spear shafts. Leaves were twisted into rope for making baskets. In Gippsland, sharp edges of cane were used as knives for skinning animals. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp, neutral or alkaline soils and positioned in full sun to partial sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance.

photo by: Darkone


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Poa labillardierei

Common name(s) Common Tussock-grass Indigenous name(s) Bobat (Woi wurrung)

Bowat (Wurundjeri) Height, Width 30-80cm high Plant Type Grass, Sedge, or Rush Flowering Period October to February

Description: A dense perennial tussock grass growing between 30-80cm tall slender, greyish-green leaves. The plume like flower heads extend above the foliage up to 1.2m and are green with cream seed heads. Derivation of Name: Poa; from the Greek word ‘meaning grass or fodder,’ perhaps referring to the grass being livestock food. Labillardierei; named after the French botanist and explorer, J.J.H. de Labillardière. Uses: Poa grass was used to make string for nets, bags, baskets and mats. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant is best grown in damp, well-drained, alkaline soils and positioned in full sun to partial sun. It has some degree of salt tolerance. Tolerates frost and cold to about -7C.

photo by: Macleay Grass Man


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Podolepis jaceoides

Common name(s) Showy Podolepis Indigenous name(s) Unknown Height, Width 0.3-0.8m Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period August to November

Description: A woolly perennial subshrub growing to 0.8m high with leaves up to 20cm and daisy-like yellow flowers around 4cm across. Derivation of Name: Podolepis; from the Greek words podos meaning ‘foot,’ and lepis meaning ‘scale.’ Jaceoides; from the Latin word jaceo meaning ‘to lying down or to be situate.’ Uses: The thick taproot was eaten. Alpine Podolepis, P. robusta and Long Podolepis, P. hieracioides were probably also eaten. Propagation and maintenance notes: The plant can be grown in almost any soil type and from full sun to full shade and is able to tolerate extended dry periods but responds very well to extra watering. It has some degree of salt tolerance.

photo by: Paul Asman and Jill Lenoble


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Prostanthera rotundifolia

Common name(s) Native Round Leaf Mint Indigenous name(s) Unknown Height, Width 2m x 1.5m Plant Type Shrub Flowering Period September to December

Description: A rounded perennial shrub growing to 2m by 1.5m with rounded dull green leaves up to 1cm. The flowers occur in large clusters and are usually purple or lilac in colour. Derivation of Name

STATEMENT OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - Advance...Uses for Native Plants of the Mornington Peninsula Page 7...

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Transcript of STATEMENT OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT - Advance...Uses for Native Plants of the Mornington Peninsula Page 7...