12 February 2009

Persoonia teretifolia

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Persoonia teretifolia

An open shrub growing to 1-2 metres (from 3' to around 6') in height, with a habitat preference for heavy clay type soils with a shallow sandy overlay. It is particularly common in the mallee region, where these conditions occur in a wide arc to the north of Esperance.

Persoonia teretifolia is distinguished from other Persoonia species by the long terete (rounded and without any grooves) leaves, plus a swelling on one side of the floral tube. Despite the open habit of this plant, it presents a good floral display of bright yellow flowers that are not hidden by foliage. The no less attractive blue/green leaves are held in a near vertical position. Flowering can be variable due to irregular rainfall, but the main period in this region is between October and February.