Solanum chippendalei

Solanum chippendalei is a species of plant in the family Solanaceae. It is endemic to Australia, specifically in the Northern Territory and Western Australia. The plant is named after the botanist George Chippendale, who made significant contributions to the understanding of Australian flora.

Description

Solanum chippendalei is a shrub that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. The leaves are elliptical in shape, and the flowers are purple with yellow anthers. The fruit is a berry that turns from green to yellow as it matures. The plant is known to flower and fruit throughout the year.

Habitat and Distribution

Solanum chippendalei is found in a variety of habitats, including sand dunes, rocky hillsides, and open woodland. It is most commonly found in the Kimberley region of Western Australia and the northern parts of the Northern Territory.

Taxonomy

The species was first described by Symon, D.E. in 1979. It is part of the Solanum genus, which includes around 1,500 species worldwide, including the potato, tomato, and eggplant. The specific epithet, chippendalei, honors Australian botanist George Chippendale.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of Solanum chippendalei is not currently listed by the IUCN. However, like many native Australian plants, it may be threatened by habitat loss due to land clearing for agriculture and urban development.

Uses

While there is no record of Solanum chippendalei being used for food or medicine, other species in the Solanum genus have a long history of use by indigenous peoples. The fruit of some species are edible, while others have medicinal properties.

See Also

• List of Solanum species
• Flora of Australia