Australia So Much to See
Enchylaena tomentosa, Ruby Saltbush, Barrier Saltbush, Plum Puddings, Barry Cotton Bush. These names are also used for a number
of different saltbush species.
A straggly shrub to 1.5 metres height, with elongated cylindrical succulent foliage which tapers
to a point. Leaves and stems are slightly hairy (velvety) which gives an aqua or silvery appearance. Stems are ribbed. Berries (fruits) are rounded, fleshy and tomato-shaped, ripening from green to yellow to red and drying to black. These berries are
edible and are favoured by birds. Flowers are tiny and insignificant in the leaf joints.
August
Photographed at Westonia, Woolgangie to the west of Coolgardie, Agnew in Leonora shire, Wilroy nature reserve south of Mullewa and
in the Greater Geraldton council area. Found through most of the state with the exception of the South West region, and only
limited occurrences in the far north. Grows in all mainland states, mostly in inland areas, and is salt tolerant.
Enekbatus clavifolius (formerly Baeckea clavifolia 2010)
Five petalled pink blossoms, with ten stamens, setting it aside from most
other similar species have more stamens. Fruit is red, as can be seen forming in these photos.
Short chunky leaves
terminating in a rounded tip, opposite and alternating along the stems at right angles. The species name, clavifolia/us means club
shaped foliage.
August
Westonia, and found in the central Wheatbelt from Wialki to Bruce Rock, and west to between Koorda and Cadoux.
Enekbatus sessilis, new species named 2010.
Five petalled pink blossoms, with around 25 stamens. Slightly elongated chunky
foliage, which may be tuberculate (with bumps). Leaves opposite and alternating along the stems at right angles.
August
Epiblema grandiflorum, Babe-in-Cradle.
A particularly pretty purple orchid, with darker spots, and a column cap like baby s bonnet. Ribbon-like strands come from the labellum. Reed-like stems and foliage grow in swamps and edges of freshwater bodies.
December
Northcliffe,
South West Region, Western Australia, and found near the coast from Jurien to Albany.
