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eremophila
Scientific Name: Eremophila
Family: Myoporaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Eremophila: An Overview of Australian Native Plants
Eremophila is a diverse genus of plants, boasting over 260 species, all native to mainland Australia.
Considerations for Pets
- Some Eremophila species are shrubs.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Genus: Eremophila
- Family: Scrophulariaceae (figwort family) or Myoporaceae (depending on species and taxonomic classification)
- Synonyms/Related Genera: Myoporum
Common Names
- Turpentine bush (Eremophila sturtii)
- Emu Bush (Eremophila maculata, Eremophila longifolia, Eremophila arachnoides)
- Poverty Bush (Eremophila foliosissima, Eremophila alternifolia, Eremophila sp. Koobabbie)
- Dense-felted Eremophila (Eremophila subfloccosa)
Distribution and Habitat
- Endemic to mainland Australia.
- Found in arid and semi-arid regions of all mainland states (e.g., Eremophila longifolia).
- Inhabits eucalypt or Acacia woodlands or mixed chenopod/Eremophila shrublands (e.g., Eremophila maculata).
Morphological Characteristics
- Shrubs, sometimes trees.
- Size varies depending on the species; some are low and spreading (e.g., Eremophila subfloccosa: 0.5-1m high by 1-2m wide), while others can grow taller (e.g., Eremophila longifolia: up to 6m).
- Eremophila maculata is a perennial shrub less than 2 m tall.
- Leaves can be finely cylindrical or narrow and flattened, ranging from 2.5 to 5.0 cm long.
- Flowers come in various colors, including white, yellow, violet, purple, pink, and red, and are sometimes spotted. The throats of the tubular flowers are sometimes spotted.
Ecological Role
- Useful in revegetation programs due to their drought and fire resistance.
Traditional Uses
- Traditionally used by Aboriginal people.
Quirky Facts
- Some species are noted for their horticultural potential.