Cheiranthera linearis explained

Cheiranthera linearis, commonly known as finger-flower,[1] is a flowering plant in the family Pittosporaceae. It is a small shrub with deep purple flowers, yellow stamens and dull green linear shaped leaves. It is found growing in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland.

Description

Cheiranthera linearis is a small upright shrub to with smooth stems. The leaves are sessile, arranged alternately, more or less clustered on the stem, leaf blade mostly linear, long, wide, edges curved under, smooth, toothed or with lobes about long. The flowers may be single or in clusters of 2–5 on a short upright stems and 5 yellow stamens. The flower petals are egg-shaped, long and a blue to deep purple. The fruit capsules are more or less oblong to egg-shaped, long and flattened. Flowering occurs in summer and autumn.[1] [2]

Taxonomy and naming

Cheiranthera linearis was first formally described in 1834 by John Lindley and the description was published in Edwards's Botanical Register.[3] [4] The specific epithet is taken from the Latin word linearis meaning "linear", which refers to the shape of the leaves.[5]

Distribution and habitat

Finger-flower is a widespread species found growing in woodland and forests on rocky or sandy locations in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.[1] [2]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Cheiranthera linearis . PlantNET-NSW Flora Online . Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney . 29 February 2020.
  2. Book: Sharp . Sarah . Rehwinkel . Rainer . Mallinson . Dave . Eddy . David . Woodland Flora a Field Guide for the Southern Tableland (NSW & ACT) . 2015 . Horizons Print Management . Canberra . 9780994495808.
  3. Web site: Cheiranthera linearis . Australian Plant Name Index . 3 March 2020.
  4. Web site: Edwards's Botanical Register . Biodiversity Heritage Library . 3 March 2020.
  5. Web site: Cheiranthera linearis . Growing Native Plants . Australian National Herbarium . 3 March 2020.