SafePlants

Carmichaelia williamsii: A Detailed Overview

Carmichaelia williamsii, commonly known as Giant-flowered Broom, Large Flowered Broom, Williams Broom, or New Zealand Leafless Broom, is a fascinating plant species native to New Zealand.

Considerations for Pets

• Like other native brooms, Carmichaelia williamsii possesses flat, green branches that are photosynthetic.

Considerations for Children

• Like other native brooms, Carmichaelia williamsii possesses flat, green branches that are photosynthetic.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Carmichaelia williamsii Kirk
• Family: Fabaceae (Leguminosae/Papilionaceae)
• Genus: Carmichaelia
• Synonyms: Carmichlia williamsi (an earlier spelling)
• The genus name Carmichaelia honors a botanist named Carmichael.

Distribution and Habitat

• Carmichaelia williamsii is endemic to the North Island of New Zealand, particularly in coastal regions, especially in the Bay of Plenty.
• It is a strictly coastal species.
• The plant is considered rare and endangered in its natural habitat.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Carmichaelia williamsii is a stout woody shrub that can grow to over 2 meters in height, sometimes reaching up to 4 meters.
• It features pale green, widely flattened branches (cladodes) that serve as leaves.
• Small leaves divided into 2-3 leaflets occur on seedlings or on shaded areas of the plant.
• It produces yellow flowers, typically in spring.

Ecological Role

• Carmichaelia williamsii is a threatened leguminous shrub.

Quirky Facts

• The ribbon bush, Homalocladium platycladum, is very similar in appearance to Carmichaelia williamsii due to its ribbon-like stems.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
• Classification information is available within iNaturalist.org.
• B and T World Seeds' database provides information on Carmichaelia williamsii.