Family: Proteaceae
Author: R.Br.
Bibliography: Trans. Linn. Soc. London 10:198. 1811 (Nat. order Proteac.)
Year: 1810
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Telopea
Vegetable: False
Observations: E. New South Wales
Description
The New South Wales Waratah, classified scientifically as Telopea speciosissima, is an iconic and strikingly beautiful flowering plant native to the eastern regions of New South Wales, Australia. Renowned for its dramatic and vivid crimson flower heads, this plant is a prominent member of the Proteaceae family.
The Waratah holds a significant place in both natural and cultural contexts. Its large, eye-catching inflorescence, which can comprise up to 240 individual flowers, is not only a visual delight but also an important ecological resource, attracting a myriad of pollinators such as birds and insects. This flowering pattern is an excellent example of botanical aesthetics and functionality, making it an essential subject of study and admiration.
First formally described by the botanist Robert Brown in 1810 and subsequently published in the Transactions of the Linnean Society of London in 1811, the New South Wales Waratah has been a symbol of resilience and beauty. Brown’s meticulous documentation and classification of this plant have enabled a deeper understanding of its characteristics and ecological significance.
The plant thrives naturally in the bushland of New South Wales, where it forms a vital part of the region’s biodiversity. It typically prefers well-drained soils and can often be found adorning rocky hillsides and forested landscapes. Its robust nature is well-suited to withstand the variations of the Australian climate, contributing to its status as a symbol of the local flora.
Due to its stunning appearance and cultural significance, the New South Wales Waratah has been adopted as the floral emblem of the state of New South Wales. This distinction underscores the plant’s status as not only a natural marvel but also a cherished symbol of regional identity and heritage.
In horticulture, the Waratah is highly valued and cultivated for ornamental purposes. Gardeners and plant enthusiasts often seek to grow it, although it can be somewhat challenging due to its specific soil and climatic requirements. Nonetheless, with the right conditions and care, the Waratah can be a magnificent addition to gardens, providing a spectacular display of color and form during its blooming season.
In conclusion, Telopea speciosissima, or the New South Wales Waratah, captures the essence of botanical splendor and regional pride. Its vibrant blooms, ecological importance, and cultural significance contribute to its revered status in the plant kingdom and within the hearts of those who appreciate the natural beauty of New South Wales.
Common Names
Eng: new south wales waratah, waratah
Swe: telopea
En: New South Wales waratah, Waratah, White waratah
Sv: Telopea
: New south wales waratah
Synonyms
- Embothrium speciosum (Salisb.)
- Hylogyne speciosa ((Salisb.) Knight)
- Embothrium speciosissimum (Sm.)
- Embothrium spathulatum (Cav.)
- Hylogyne spathulata ((Cav.) Kuntze)
Distribution
- New South Wales (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Flower
Taken Sep 30, 2020 by catherine Sareen (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 18, 2022 by marielle dolisi (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 6, 2022 by Goulidan Finch (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 23, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 23, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jul 28, 2022 by Michal Svit (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 16, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 26, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Taken Sep 23, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Nov 16, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 16, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Sep 29, 2019 by jurus (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 23, 2021 by O’Loughlin Davi (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 31, 2022 by Reid Trav (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 26, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 16, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Sep 8, 2020 by Jon Palmares (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3996729)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:706840-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Telopea speciosissima (Sm.) R. Br.)