Darwinia fascicularis

Darwinia fascicularis Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Darwinia fascicularis, commonly known as the bushy darwinia, is a species of flowering plant in the Myrtaceae family, native to Australia. This article provides an overview of its taxonomy, description, distribution, habitat, and conservation status.

Taxonomy

The species was first described by the botanist Robert Brown in 1810. The genus name Darwinia honors the English botanist and grandfather of Charles Darwin, Erasmus Darwin. The specific epithet fascicularis is derived from Latin, meaning 'bundled' or 'clustered', which refers to the arrangement of the flowers.

Description

Darwinia fascicularis is a small, bushy shrub that can grow up to 1 meter in height. Its leaves are small, linear, and crowded along the stems. The plant is notable for its striking flowers, which are typically red or orange with green tips, appearing in clusters at the ends of the branches. The flowers are tubular, with the petals fused into a tube that splits open at the tip to reveal the reproductive parts.

Distribution and Habitat

Darwinia fascicularis is endemic to southeastern Australia, particularly in the states of New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania. It prefers sandy or rocky soils and is commonly found in heathland, open forest, and woodland areas.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of Darwinia fascicularis varies regionally, but it is not currently listed as threatened on a national level. However, like many native Australian plants, it faces threats from habitat loss, invasive species, and changes in fire regimes. Conservation efforts are focused on habitat protection and restoration to ensure the survival of this and other native species.

Cultivation

Darwinia fascicularis is cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and flowers. It is suitable for use in native gardens, rockeries, and as a container plant. The species prefers a sunny position in well-drained soil and is drought-tolerant once established. Pruning after flowering can help maintain a compact shape and encourage more prolific blooming in the following season.