Thysanotus juncifolius (Salisb.) J.H.Willis & Court
Frost-hardy herbaceous plant with rush-like foliage and a slender, loosely branched inflorescence of a few purple, fringed flowers in spring and summer. [RHSD, FNSW, Beadle].
Horticultural & Botanical History
‘For this very rare plant we are indebted to Mr. Joseph Knight of the Exotic Nursery, King’s Road, who raised it from seeds he received from New south Wales in the spring of 1821. He observes that it is delicate and requires to be kept in an airy sunny situation, in the greenhouse, during the winter months.’ [BM t.2351/1822].
‘It was introduced in 1820, but has been lost for several years, till we received roots and seeds of it again in 1832: some of the former flowered in June and July following: the flowers open only once, remaining for a few hours, but more are produced for a considerable time in succession. […] The delicacy and splendour of these flowers is surprising; their colour also peculiarly pleasing and attractive; all produced from a little tuft of herbage, which when not in bloom it is difficult to distinguish from common grass. Overflowing with elegance and brilliancy, and exquisite skill, are all the works of the gracious Creator.’ [LBC no.1986/1833].
Introduced to Britain in 1804. [JD]. BR f.656/1822. FC p.74/1834.
History at Camden Park
Listed in the 1850 and 1857 catalogues [B.423/1850]. Probably collected locally or in the Illawarra by William Macarthur.
Notes
Published Jan 10, 2010 - 02:33 PM | Last updated Jul 14, 2010 - 11:38 AM
Thysanotus juncifolius (Salisb.) J.H.Willis & Court | BM t.2351/1822 | BHL
| Family | Anthericaceae |
|---|---|
| Category | |
| Region of origin | South eastern Australia, including South Australia |
| Synonyms |
|
| Common Name | Fringed Violet, Fringed Lily |
| Name in the Camden Park Record |
Thysanotus junceus |
| Confidence level | high |