Pimelea linifolia
| Pimelea linifolia | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| (unranked): | Angiosperms |
| (unranked): | Eudicots |
| (unranked): | Rosids |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Thymelaeaceae |
| Genus: | Pimelea |
| Species: | P. linifolia |
| Binomial name | |
| Pimelea linifolia Sm. | |
Pimelea linifolia is an Australian shrub, variously known as Queen-of-the-bush and the Slender or Flax-leafed Riceflower. It is widespread throughout the south and east of the continent and is toxic to livestock.[1] [2]
The bark can be processed into fine strong thread for catching Agrotis infusa, the Bogong moth. This string, called a 'Bushman's bootlace', is produced by a traditional method that involves wetting, drying, beating and rolling the material.[3]
Description
The plant is prostrate or 1.5 m high. The leaves of the species are narrow or oblanceolate, 2-7 mm, and may be up to 30mm long. Up to 60 white flowers form brachteate heads on glabrous peduncles, bracts are 4 or 8. It was first published in 1793 by James Edward Smith, in his A Specimen of the Botany of New Holland.
Distribution
It is endemic to south-eastern Australia, occurring in South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales and Queensland.
References
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- ↑ Harden, G. J. "Pimelea linifolia Sm.". New South Wales Flora Online. PlantNET. Retrieved 2007-07-13.
- ↑ "Australian Plant Common Names Database". Retrieved 2007-07-13.
- ↑ Nash, Daphne. "2. Riceflower Pimelea linifolia". Aboriginal Plant Use in South-Eastern Australia. Australian National Botanic Gardens - Education Service. Retrieved 2007-07-13. "We know the bark of the Riceflower as 'Bushman's Bootlace', but here's how to make string: Strip the bark, dry it, place in a stream for about one week, dry in sun, soften by chewing/beating with sticks and stones, roll on the thigh and spin into fine, strong thread."