Cottonbush (Ptilotus obovatus, Fragm. 6: 228 (1868))

Family: Amaranthaceae

Author: (Gaudich.) F.Muell.

Bibliography: Fragm. 6: 228 (1868)

Year: 1868

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Ptilotus

Vegetable: False

Observations: Australia

Description

The Cottonbush, scientifically known as Ptilotus obovatus, is a notable species of flowering plant that belongs to the Amaranthaceae family. First described in the mid-19th century, its formal documentation can be traced back to the writings in “Fragmenta Phytographiae Australiae” (1868) by the esteemed botanist Ferdinand von Mueller, who initially categorized it following observations by Gaudichaud.

Native to Australia, the Cottonbush thrives in the country’s diverse climates and terrains. It is prevalently found across arid and semi-arid environments, showcasing its adaptability to the often challenging conditions of the Australian outback. The plant is well-regarded for its distinctive appearance; it typically features silvery foliage and dense, globular flower clusters that range in color from pale pink to vibrant magenta.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Cottonbush holds significant ecological value. It contributes to the habitat’s biodiversity and supports various wildlife species. Moreover, its resilience makes it an important species for land rehabilitation projects in degraded areas. By understanding and appreciating the Cottonbush, we recognize not only its botanical uniqueness but also its role in the broader ecological tapestry of Australia.

Common Names

Eng: prince-of-wales-feather, cottonbush, silver mulla-mulla
En: Cottonbush, Prince-of-Wales-feather, Silver mulla-mulla

Synonyms

• Gomotriche tomentosa (Turcz.)
• Trichinium obovatum (Gaudich.)
• Trichinium variabile (F.Muell.)
• Trichinium lanatum (Lindl.)
• Trichinium incanum (Moq.)
• Ptilotus lindleyi (F.Muell.)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Northern Territory (native)
• Queensland (native)
• South Australia (native)
• Western Australia (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Nov 17, 2022 by jann condon (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 9, 2022 by Nickisht (cc-by-sa)

© 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.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7323691)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:61285-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ptilotus obovatus (Gaudich.) F. Muell.)

Specifications

Growth