Weddingbush (Ricinocarpos pinifolius, Mém. Mus. Hist. Nat. 3: 459 (1817))

Family: Euphorbiaceae

Author: Desf.

Bibliography: Mém. Mus. Hist. Nat. 3: 459 (1817)

Year: 1817

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Ricinocarpos

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. Queensland to E. Tasmania

Description

The weddingbush, known scientifically as Ricinocarpos pinifolius, is a charming member of the plant family Euphorbiaceae. Described in the early 19th century by Desf., this plant species showcases nature’s elegance through its delicate structure and graceful appearance. Originating from eastern regions of Australia, the weddingbush extends its habitat from eastern Queensland all the way to eastern Tasmania, demonstrating its adaptability to different environments within this range.

The weddingbush is favored in gardens and natural landscapes for its striking and eye-catching flowers. These blooms are typically white, embodying a purity that likely contributes to its common name, symbolizing the beauty and elegance associated with wedding ceremonies. The foliage of Ricinocarpos pinifolius is equally appealing, with leaves that are narrow and elongated, reminiscent of pine needles, which adds a unique texture to the garden scenery.

Not merely an ornamental marvel, the weddingbush also plays a critical role in its native ecosystems. It contributes to the diversity and stability of the habitats it occupies, providing food and shelter for various local wildlife species. Its robust nature allows it to thrive in different soil types and environmental conditions, which makes it an excellent choice for gardeners looking to introduce native Australian flora into their landscapes.

The weddingbush is a testament to the botanical richness of Australia, blending aesthetic appeal with ecological significance. Its enduring presence from the green fields of Queensland to the temperate landscapes of Tasmania ensures that this plant remains a beloved and vital part of the region’s natural heritage.

For further reading and detailed botanical descriptions, refer to the original documentation found in “Mém. Mus. Hist. Nat. 3: 459 (1817),” meticulously catalogued by Desf. This historical reference provides deeper insight into the early scientific observations and classifications of this elegant plant species.

Common Names

Eng: weddingbush
En: Weddingbush

Synonyms

• Ricinocarpos proximus (Gand.)
• Ricinocarpos sidiformis (F.Muell. ex Benth.)
• Echinosphaera rosmarinoides (Sieber ex Benth.)
• Roeperia pinifolia ((Desf.) Spreng.)
• Ricinocarpos sidifolius (Baill.)
• Croton corollatus (Sol. ex Baill.)
• Ricinocarpos megalanthus (Gand.)

Distribution

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

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jul 25, 2022 by Michal Svit (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 9, 2018 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

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

Taken Oct 6, 2022 by jen robinson (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3072275)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:355235-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ricinocarpos pinifolius Desf.)

Specifications

Growth