Showy boronia (Boronia ledifolia, Prodr. 1: 722 (1824))

Family: Rutaceae

Author: (Vent.) DC.

Bibliography: Prodr. 1: 722 (1824)

Year: 1824

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Boronia

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. & SE. Australia

Description

The Showy boronia, scientifically known as Boronia ledifolia, is a captivating plant species belonging to the Rutaceae family. Described initially in 1824 by the French botanist Augustin Pyramus de Candolle, the species was protologued in the first volume of “Prodromus Systematis Naturalis Regni Vegetabilis” on page 722.

Boronia ledifolia is primarily found in the regions of eastern and southeastern Australia. This geographical distribution lends the plant a unique environmental adaptation, making it well-suited to the conditions commonly found in these areas. Its notable presence in diverse Australian habitats underscores the plant’s ecological versatility.

Characterized by its ornamental appeal, the Showy boronia is prized for its striking appearance. It typically features an abundance of vibrant, pink flowers which make it a favorite in botanical gardens and among plant enthusiasts. The foliage of Boronia ledifolia is equally distinctive, with narrow, dark green leaves that provide a beautiful contrast to the bright blossoms.

This species is also significant within its ecological community, playing a role in local biodiversity. It contributes to the habitat by providing food and shelter for various pollinators and other wildlife.

Given its aesthetic and ecological value, Boronia ledifolia continues to be a subject of interest not only for horticulturists aiming to cultivate it for its beauty but also for ecologists studying the dynamics of the regions it inhabits. The Showy boronia stands out as a representation of Australia’s rich botanical heritage.

Common Names

En: Showy boronia, Sydney Boronia

Synonyms

• Lasiopetalum ledifolium (Vent.)
• Boronia ledophylla (F.Muell.)
• Boronia triphylla var. flore-pleno (Cheel)
• Boronia ledifolia var. triphylla ((Sieber ex Rchb.) Benth.)
• Boronia paradoxa ((Sm.) DC.)
• Boronia ledifolia var. denticulata (C.Moore)
• Eriostemon paradoxus (Sm.)
• Boronia triphylla (Sieber ex Rchb.)
• Boronia triphylla var. latifolia (Lindl.)
• Boronia ledifolia var. normalis (Domin)
• Boronia ledifolia var. pinnata (Domin)
• Boronia whitei (Cheel)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Queensland (native)
• Victoria (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Aug 29, 2020 by Paige Macgregor (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 29, 2020 by Paige Macgregor (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 4, 2021 by fresiak (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 30, 2021 by fresiak (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 25, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jul 25, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jul 25, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 25, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/7269480)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60882-3)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Boronia ledifolia (Vent.) DC.)

Specifications

Growth