Calliandra
Calliandra haematocephala is a species of the Genus Calliandra, in the Fabaceae Family (pea family) and came originally from South America. It is sometimes called the Fairy Duster or the Tassel Flower. The tree grows to about 3 metres high and has rather a straggly appearance. However when it blooms it is a beautiful sight, covered with soft red powder-puff flowers which attract insects and birds. The Eastern Spinebill is a regular visitor to the flowers.
Red Hot Poker
Red Hot Poker, Kniphofia, is also known as Torch Lily. It is a member of the Liliaceae Family and is native to South Africa. There are more than 70 known species. Kniphofia is a perennial flowering plant, the bright orange flowers appearing late in autumn as the days become colder. They are especially favoured by the Eastern Spinebill.
Text and Photos by Colwyn Campbell
The black bat plant (Tacca chantrieri) is an unusual exotic plant that is native to tropical Asia. It grows well at Paluma, most often as a pot plant in a protected shaded position away from direct sunlight. The large flowers are striking and resemble a bat in flight. The flowers are black to deep purple with ruffled edges and long, hanging filaments. Large bright green leaves surround the bloom. Several gardeners at Paluma have spectacular specimens of the black bat plant. It flowers all year round, but seems to produce most flowers during the summer months.
The White Bat Plant (Tacca integrifolia) is a member of the yam family Dioscoreaceae. It is native to hilly regions of tropical and subtropical Asia where it thrives in the in the shady and humid understorey of the rainforest. The long, flowing ‘whiskers’ of this flower can grow to 30 cm long.
If you take a stroll through the village of Paluma between April to May you are likely to see several beautiful specimens of the Gordonia plant in full bloom. Gordonia axillaris is an exotic shrub or small tree which is a close relative to the camellia. Although Gordonia’s are slow-growing they are well suited to the cool mountain climate at Paluma. You will recognise the Gordonia from its spectacular large white blooms with bright yellow stamens. The flowers tend to fall from the tree with their egg-yolk yellow stamens facing upwards. At first glance this has the appearance of fried eggs lying around the base of the plant. For this reason, the Gordonia is often referred to by its common name, the “fried egg plant”. Gordonia’s are a great attractant for both native bees and exotic bees. Keep an eye out for the “fried egg plant” in several gardens as you walk along Mt Spec Road.
