The
Zygophyllum genus belongs to the Zygophyllaceae family and is so named due to the leaf's two large leaflets. These plants are characterised by the leaf shape and stamens (winged, or not, at their base), plus the fleshy capsules which, fortunately for identification purposes, develop very quickly.
Apart from the yellow flowers, the entire plant of Zygophyllum glaucum is fleshy indicating an ability to withstand prolonged dry periods, therefore tending to grow inland especially in dry limestone and/or saline environments.
This species is recorded in all mainland states of Australia and in Western Australia from sparse scattered populations, mainly around Hopetoun, Wagin, Southern Cross, Kalgoorlie, the Nullarbor and the coast.
Young plants initially have large bronze coloured foliage, but as the plants mature the leaves reduce in size and change to green. Depending on environmental conditions (which is likely to be too much rain or too little), plants can be annual or perennial which will influence their ultimate size. Growth is usually low and spreading, locally varying from semi-prostrate to 50cms in height, although they are known to grow to 30cms (12") higher in other regions. Flowers are a bright yellow and bloom continually from August to November.
I am quite delighted to be able to end this wildflowers series with a yellow flower.
I have no idea what I am going to research next...perhaps insects or reptiles but, for my own sake, I'd have to keep away from spiders and crocodiles. I'm lost for ideas but I do hope you've enjoyed the wildflowers some of which are endemic to Western Australia and others which we share with other states. We are definitely very proud of our unusual flowers.
Once again I acknowledge "Esperance Wildflowers" which is where I found this cute little wildflower.
Such pretty plants. And yes, I have loved this series. Thank you so much.
ReplyDeleteThey are rather sweet aren't they and EC I am so glad you've enjoyed this series. I've really enjoyed researching lots of plants and trying to choose those that seemed most interesting. I've certainly learned a lot about many plants I'd barely heard of before.
DeleteThey're pretty little things, I like the bronze of the young leaves.
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward to seeing what you start with next.
I too thought it unusual the way the leaves change colour as the plant matures.
DeleteWhat's next? Perhaps some rather small creatures, some of which are well known with others that we may not recognise. I'll see what the response is which will make me decide whether to continue with them or not.
Aren't they just the tiniest little things? And...the wee mans favourite colour.
ReplyDeleteThey are certainly very tiny. My favourite colour too so had to finish with it.
ReplyDelete