SafePlants

Calothamnus lateralis

Calothamnus lateralis, also known as swamp blood flower (although this common name is also associated with Calothamnus sanguineus), is a plant species belonging to the Myrtaceae (myrtle) family.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Calothamnus lateralis Lindl.
• Family: Myrtaceae (Myrtle family)
• Genus: Calothamnus
• Synonyms/Alternative Names:
  • Calothamnus lateralis f. crassus
  • Calothamnus lateralis var. lateralis
  • Calothamnus lateralis f. longifolius
  • Calothamnus lateralis f. rigidus Benth.

Distribution and Habitat

• Calothamnus lateralis is endemic to the south-west of Western Australia.
• It can be found in winter wet flats.

Conservation Status

• The species is classified as "not threatened" by the Western Australian government.

Morphology and Growth Habits

• Calothamnus lateralis is a small, spreading shrub, typically reaching a height of 0.4 to 1.5 meters and a width of 1 to 2 meters.
• The leaves are long and slender, mostly 70-100 millimetres long.
• It exhibits an erect growth habit.
• It is an evergreen plant, retaining its leaves throughout the year.
• The flowers are red and bloom from August to December.
• The lower parts of the plant tend to have a bare stem, with many ramifications developing higher up.

Ecological Role

• Calothamnus lateralis can be found alongside other plant species, such as Kunzea micranthera, Hakea varia, and Daviesia incrassata, in clay soils.

Quirky Facts

• The needle-like leaves give it an appearance similar to a conifer.
• The name Calothamnus derives from the Greek, roughly translated as "nice bush".

Further Information

• Specimens are held at the Western Australian Herbarium (e.g., specimen associated with K000793667).
• Additional information can be found on Discover Life's website.
• Tropicos database.