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.