Eupomatia laurina

Species of flowering plant

Eupomatia laurina, commonly known as the Bolwarra, is a species of flowering plant in the family Eupomatiaceae. It is native to Australia, where it is found in rainforests and wet sclerophyll forests.

Description

Eupomatia laurina foliage

Eupomatia laurina is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 5 meters in height. The leaves are simple, alternate, and have a glossy appearance. They are elliptic to obovate in shape, measuring 5–15 cm long and 2–6 cm wide.

The flowers are solitary and terminal, with a diameter of 2–3 cm. They are creamy white and have a distinctive fragrance. The flowers lack true petals; instead, they have petal-like structures called tepals.

Distribution and habitat

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Eupomatia laurina in its natural habitat

Eupomatia laurina is found along the eastern coast of Australia, from Queensland to New South Wales. It grows in rainforests and wet sclerophyll forests, often in shaded areas.

Ecology

Close-up of Eupomatia laurina flower

The flowers of Eupomatia laurina are pollinated by small beetles, particularly those of the family Curculionidae. The plant has a mutualistic relationship with these beetles, which are attracted to the flowers by their scent and feed on the pollen.

Uses

Eupomatia laurina fruit

The fruit of Eupomatia laurina is edible and has been used by Indigenous Australians as a food source. The fruit is a berry, 1–2 cm in diameter, and contains numerous seeds.

Cultivation

Eupomatia laurina can be grown in gardens as an ornamental plant. It prefers a shaded position with well-drained soil and requires protection from frost.

Gallery

• Eupomatia laurina flower close-up

• Eupomatia laurina foliage and flower

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  Eupomatia laurina with pollinating beetle

Related pages

• Eupomatiaceae
• Magnoliales
• Rainforest