Notice

Colin Mills, compiler of the Hortus Camdenensis, died in late November 2012 after a short illness. As he always considered the Hortus his legacy, it is his family's intention to keep the site running in perpetuity. It will not, however, be updated in the near future.

Carmichaelia australis R.Br.

Fully-hardy perennial shrub with flattened young stems and short, crowded racemes of tiny, pea-like lilac flowers in summer.  To 1.2m.  [RHSD, Hilliers’, Hortus].

Horticultural & Botanical History

‘In the year 1769 this plant was first discovered by Sir Joseph Banks and Dr. Solander, in New Zealand; and very recently it has been introduced into this country.  Its growth and habit are curious, the branches being quite flat and wholly without leaves.  The flowers come out in spring and make a pretty appearance.’  [LBC no.1061, 1826].  ‘I have named the genus in honour of my friend, Captain Dugald Carmichael, F.L.S., a very accurate Botanist.’  [Robert Brown, quoted in BR f.912/1825].  Introduced to Britain in 1800.  [JD].

History at Camden Park

Listed in all published catalogues [T.282/1843].  Possibly grown from material collected in New Zealand by John Bidwill.

Notes

Published Dec 10, 2009 - 07:55 PM | Last updated Jul 18, 2010 - 04:57 PM

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Illustrated are flattened stems and short, crowded racemes of tiny, pea-like lilac flowers. Botanical Register f.912, 1825.

Carmichaelia australis R.Br. | BR f.912/1825 | BHL

Family Fabaceae
Category
Region of origin

New Zealand
Synonyms
Common Name
Name in the Camden Park Record

Carmichaelia australis 
Confidence level high