Plant Palette

By Clive Larkman

There are thousands and thousands of plants in the world, growing in almost every climatic zone. They have a wide range of forms and shapes, and includes flowering and non-flowering plants. The flower colours are diverse and cover most common shades.… Continue reading

Label Name: Calandrinia balonensis ‘Mystique’

ACRA 1340 (registered Nov 2010)

Family: Portulaceae

Origin: Arid and semi-arid regions of Australia. Applicant: The University of Queensland (Dr Dion Harrison) The Centre for Native Floriculture, plant breeding and selection programme.

Characteristics: A compact, small herbaceous shrub, 150mm(H) x 400mm (W), The flowers are vibrant pink-purple (mauve) and are 40mm in diameter.… Continue reading

By Clive Larkman

There are multiple genera of plants that have real naming issues that confuse the general public and irritate those working in industry or academia. A big one is the misnomers with Geranium and Pelargonium. Both of these are legitimate Latin genus names and both are used as common names.… Continue reading

By Paul Carmen ACRA register

Label Name: Citrus australasica ‘Alstonville’

Family: Rutaceae

ACRA Registration: 1125

Origin: The cultivar originated at Alstonville on the far north coast of NSW and was selected in 1989. Application received on 16 May 2005, applicant: Judy Viola.… Continue reading

By Clive Larkman

Last month I raised the subject of growing plants for our pets as the pet food industry is worth in excess of $2 billion per annum and there is no reason the nursery industry cannot be part of that.… Continue reading

By Dr Josekutty

Red papaya is a delicious fruit, rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, with low calories and low-medium glycaemic index, making it an excellent Super Food.

Papaya (Carica papaya) is a little-known Super Food. Australian Papaya: 2020 Nutrition Review has detailed the great nutritional potential of papaya.… Continue reading

By Clive Larkman

For many of us, one of the best things in life is the opportunity to eat food from all over the world. Stimulating the taste buds also helps us enjoy life and push through good and bad times.… Continue reading

Fleming’s Nurseries, Australia’s leading grower of ornamental, fruit and native Australian trees and plants is delighted to introduce ‘Distylium,’ an exciting new all-rounder shrub to the Australian market. 

To quote legendary plantsman and breeder Dr Michael Dirr, “These are the best plants that you have never heard of.”… Continue reading

By Clive Larkman

Bush tucker, Aussie food, native food, are some of the names used for herbs, fruit and other native edibles. It covers a broad range of edible plants that are native to Australia. The majority have some connection to Indigenous Australians as medicinal, herbal or food sources.… Continue reading

By Clive Larkman

The plant world is a large and fascinating part of the world’s biosphere. As horticulturists we engage in growing and using plants in business and daily life. The range is huge, from single cell organisms like algae to huge trees like the Californian Redwood.… Continue reading