Family:

Celastraceae

Stackhousia monogyna

Creamy Candles

Other Names:

First Nations Name(s):

Regional Subspecies:

Occurrence:

Regional:

Noted from the west to the central areas of region. Probably also occurs further east.

Habitat & Site Selection:

Heath, grassland, woodland and sclerophyll forest, rarely in swamps. Prefers moist, well-drained soil and semi-shade. Tolerates wet winter / dry summer soil; full sun to full shade, and drought. 

Habit:

Upright perennial herb generally to 40 cm high. Short leaves on few to numerous slender stems arising from rhizome. Sweet- scented creamy flowers, late winter to early summer. May die down in hot dry summers and re-shoot in autumn. Flowers may emit strong unpleasant odour at night.

Seed Collection:

Early to late Dec. Monitor closely as mature seeds shed quickly.

Propagation:

From cuttings of new leafy stems emerging from rootstock. Difficult from seed.

VALUES:

Wildlife:

Provides nectar for native butterflies and moths.

Ornamental:

Useful in rockeries and containers. Plant in groups for best effect.