Burchardia umbellata

Burchardia umbellata, commonly known as the milkmaids, is a perennial herb species in the family Colchicaceae. It is native to Australia and is found in the states of Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, and New South Wales.

Description

Burchardia umbellata is a tuberous, perennial herb that grows up to 50 cm high. It has linear to lanceolate leaves that are 10-35 cm long and 2-10 mm wide. The flowers are white, occasionally pink, and are arranged in umbels of 2-15 on a stalk 15-50 cm high. The individual flowers are 15-25 mm long and have six tepals. The fruit is a capsule about 10 mm in diameter.

Taxonomy

The species was first formally described by the botanist Robert Brown in 1810 in his work Prodromus Florae Novae Hollandiae. The genus name (Burchardia) honours the German botanist J.H.F. Link and the specific epithet (umbellata) is derived from the Latin umbella meaning "a parasol" or "sunshade", referring to the arrangement of the flowers.

Distribution and habitat

Burchardia umbellata is found in a variety of habitats including forests, woodlands, and heathlands. It is widespread in the southern parts of Australia, particularly in coastal areas and the ranges. The species prefers well-drained soils and is often found in sandy or rocky areas.

Cultivation

Burchardia umbellata is not commonly cultivated but can be grown from seed or by division of the tubers. It prefers a sunny position and well-drained soil. The plant is dormant in summer and grows and flowers in autumn, winter, and spring.

Uses

The tubers of Burchardia umbellata were eaten by Indigenous Australians. They were cooked in ashes or ground into a flour.