Family: Thymelaeaceae
Author: Sm.
Bibliography: Spec. bot. New Holland 31, t. 11. 1794
Year: 1794
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Pimelea
Vegetable: False
Observations: E. & SE. Australia
Description
The Queen-of-the-bush, scientifically known as Pimelea linifolia, is a captivating plant native to the eastern and southeastern regions of Australia. Belonging to the Thymelaeaceae family, this plant is admired for its delicate and beautiful appearance.
First documented in 1794 by the botanist James Edward Smith in “Spec. bot. New Holland” (Specimen of the Botany of New Holland), Pimelea linifolia has continued to capture the interest of botanists and plant enthusiasts alike. The name Pimelea is derived from the Greek word meaning “fat,” a reference to the thick, oily seeds commonly found in this genus.
The Queen-of-the-bush thrives in its native habitats, which predominantly span the coastal and mountainous regions of eastern and southeastern Australia. It can often be found gracing the open forests and heathlands, adding a splash of elegance to the natural Australian landscape.
This plant species is distinctive for its fine, linear leaves, with the adjective “linifolia” aptly describing its narrow, thread-like foliage. The leaves typically grow in an opposite arrangement along the stems, contributing to the plant’s graceful and airy appearance.
Flowering predominantly during the spring and summer months, Pimelea linifolia produces small, tubular flowers that are usually white but can sometimes exhibit pink hues. These blossoms grow in clusters, creating a striking visual contrast against the green foliage. The flowers are not only aesthetically pleasing but also play a vital role in the local ecosystem by attracting various pollinators, including insects such as bees and butterflies.
The adaptability and resilience of the Queen-of-the-bush make it a favorable choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of Australian flora to their landscapes. It thrives in well-drained soils and can withstand periods of dry conditions, characteristic of various Australian climatic zones.
Due to its visual appeal and ecological significance, Pimelea linifolia continues to be a subject of study and admiration, not only for its botanical characteristics but also for its contribution to the natural beauty and biodiversity of Australia.
Common Names
Eng: flax-leaf riceflower, queen-of-the-bush, slender riceflower
En: Queen-of-the-bush, Slender riceflower, Flax-leaf riceflower
Synonyms
- Banksia linifolia ((Sm.) Kuntze)
Distribution
- New South Wales (native)
- Queensland (native)
- South Australia (native)
- Tasmania (native)
- Victoria (native)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Flower
Taken Oct 3, 2021 by Victoria Beck (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 17, 2022 by Anne Smith (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 14, 2021 by Darrell Price (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 1, 2021 by Jian Chen (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jan 26, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Jan 26, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Jan 26, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)
Leaf
Taken Oct 17, 2022 by Anne Smith (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Oct 17, 2022 by Anne Smith (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7798727)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:832611-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Pimelea linifolia Sm.)