Orangevine (Eustrephus latifolius, Bot. Mag. 31: t. 1245 (1809))

Family: Asparagaceae

Author: R.Br.

Bibliography: Bot. Mag. 31: t. 1245 (1809)

Year: 1809

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Eustrephus

Vegetable: False

Observations: New Guinea to New Caledonia, E. & SE. Australia

Description

Orangevine, scientifically known as Eustrephus latifolius, is a captivating and versatile plant native to the regions stretching from New Guinea to New Caledonia, as well as various parts of Eastern and Southeastern Australia. Belonging to the Asparagaceae family, this perennial vine is celebrated for its resilience and the striking beauty it brings to its natural habitats.

Orangevine is well-adapted to a variety of environmental conditions, thriving in both open forests and coastal zones where it can climb and sprawl across other vegetation. It is particularly noted for its broad, lance-shaped leaves that provide a lush green backdrop throughout the year. These leaves are not only essential for the plant’s photosynthesis but also add to the aesthetic appeal of gardens and natural landscapes where the vine is present.

The plant is most distinguished by its vibrant, orange-hued berries, which lend it the common name “Orangevine.” These attractive berries not only catch the eye but also serve an ecological role by providing food for various bird species, which in turn aid in the plant’s seed dispersal. During its flowering season, Orangevine produces small but charming blossoms that further enhance its decorative appeal.

Recorded in the Botanical Magazine in 1809 by the botanist R.Br., Orangevine has since been a subject of study and admiration among plant enthusiasts and botanists. Its capacity to flourish in diverse environments and its minimal requirements for maintenance make it a popular choice for natural landscaping and restoration projects.

In horticulture, Eustrephus latifolius is appreciated for its use as a climber or ground cover. It integrates well into garden designs, adding vertical interest and texture. Gardeners value this species not just for its aesthetic benefits but also for its ecological contributions, as it supports local wildlife and promotes biodiversity.

In summary, Orangevine is a robust and visually appealing plant that enriches the landscapes from its native regions with both an ecological and ornamental presence. Its historical mention and continued admiration underscore its importance and enduring charm in the world of botany and gardening.

Common Names

Eng: orangevine, wombat-berry
En: Orangevine, Wombat-berry
: Wombat berry

Synonyms

• Eustrephus latifolius var. brownii (Schlittler)
• Eustrephus latifolius var. intermedius (Schlittler)
• Eustrephus leucanthus (Hassk.)
• Eustrephus watsonianus (Miq.)
• Eustrephus brownii var. angustifolius ((R.Br.) Baker)
• Eustrephus latifolius subsp. watsonianus ((Miq.) Schlittler)
• Eustrephus latifolius subvar. fasciculatus (Schlittler)
• Eustrephus latifolius subvar. integerrimus (Schlittler)
• Eustrephus latifolius f. rubens (Schlittler)
• Eustrephus latifolius f. leucanthus ((Hassk.) Schlittler)
• Luzuriaga angustifolia ((R.Br.) Poir.)
• Luzuriaga latifolia var. uniflora (Hallier f.)
• Eustrephus latifolius subvar. fimbriatus (Schlittler)
• Eustrephus latifolius subsp. angustifolius ((R.Br.) Schlittler)
• Eustrephus latifolius var. angustifolius ((R.Br.) Benth.)
• Eustrephus angustifolius (R.Br.)
• Luzuriaga latifolia var. angustifolia ((R.Br.) Hallier f.)
• Eustrephus brownii (F.Muell.)
• Geitonoplesium angustifolium ((R.Br.) Walp.)
• Eustrephus latifolius subvar. uniflorus ((Hallier f.) Schlittler)
• Eustrephus latifolius var. typicus (Domin)
• Spiranthera ovata (Raf.)
• Luzuriaga latifolia ((R.Br.) Poir.)
• Eustrephus amplexifolius (Schnizl.)
• Eustrephus latifolius subsp. fimbriatus (Schlittler)
• Eustrephus latifolius var. intercedens (Domin)

Distribution

• New Caledonia (native)
• New Guinea (native)
• New South Wales (native)
• Queensland (native)
• Solomon Is. (native)
• Victoria (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Oct 13, 2022 by Beasley Tamara (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 22, 2022 by Matthew Brown (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 16, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Oct 16, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jan 3, 2022 by Matthew Brown (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 22, 2022 by Matthew Brown (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jan 22, 2022 by Matthew Brown (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 3, 2022 by Matthew Brown (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 22, 2022 by Matthew Brown (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.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2770473)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:535022-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Eustrephus latifolius R.Br.)

Specifications

Growth habit: Shrub, Vine

Growth