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Baeckea: An Overview of a Diverse Genus
Baeckea is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the myrtle family, Myrtaceae.
Considerations for Pets
- Some Baeckea species are shrubs that can grow into small trees with switchy twigs, potentially attracting attention from curious pets.
- Crushed leaves of some species are aromatic, which may be of interest to pets.
Nomenclature and Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Baeckea L.
- Family: Myrtaceae (Myrtle family)
- Major Group: Angiosperms
- Synonyms:
- For Baeckea frutescens L.: Baeckea chinensis Gaertn., Baeckea cochinchinensis Blume, Baeckea stenophylla F.Muell., Baeckea fruticosa
- Twiggy Baeckea: Babingtonia virgata, Leptospermum virgatum
Distribution and Habitat
- Approximately 75 species exist within the genus, with about 70 being endemic to Australia.
- Baeckea frutescens is found in Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and along the coastal areas of southern China.
- Some species grow near the sea or in sheltered mountain locations.
- Many Baeckea species seem to thrive with a high water table.
Morphological Characteristics
- Baeckea gunniana is an evergreen shrub that can reach up to 1.5 meters in height and 2 meters in spread.
- Baeckea frutescens can grow into a small tree, typically 1-6 meters tall, with a trunk up to 10 cm in diameter.
- Baeckea virgata 'Dwarf' is a small-growing shrub.
Ecological Role
- Some species are common alpine and subalpine shrubs, especially in open areas.
Quirky Facts
- The genus Baeckea is named after Dr. Abraham Baeck, who was a friend of Linnaeus.
- The Latin term "frutescens" means "shrub-like".
Interactions with Other Organisms
- The ethanol extract of Baeckea frutescens has demonstrated antibacterial activity against MRSA clinical isolates.
Further Information
- PlantNET Flora Online is a resource for information on Baeckea.
List of Some Species
- Baeckea baileyana C.A.Gardner
- Baeckea corymbulosa Benth.
- Baeckea crispiflora (F.Muell.) F.Muell.
- Baeckea densifolia
- Baeckea grandis E.Pritz
- Baeckea gunniana
- Baeckea kandos
- Baeckea linifolia
- Baeckea pentagonantha
- Baeckea utilis
- Baeckea virgata