Guides plant of the month for November

Pimeleas, commonly known as riceflowers, produce abundant flowers in shades of white, pink and yellow, from early spring into early summer. They form compact shrubs with a rounded growth habit and neat, glossy green leaves.

Beyond ornamental appeal, Pimeleas provide an important source of nectar for pollinators, particularly native butterflies. With a long proboscis, butterflies can reach nectar at the base of the flowers’ narrow, tubular structures.

The name Pimelea originates from an Ancient Greek word meaning “soft fat” or “lard”, possibly referring to the oily seeds or fleshy first leaves of these plants.

Another fascinating feature of Pimeleas is protandry. This is a reproductive strategy in which the male and female parts of a flower become functional at different times, helping to encourage cross-pollination.

Two species now flowering in Kings Park are Pimelea ferruginea and Pimelea rosea.

Pimelea ferruginea – Pink Riceflower

Naturally occurring along the coastal regions of south-west WA, Pimelea ferruginea is a compact shrub with masses of small, eye-catching flowers clustered at the ends of branches. The flowers are typically bright pink, although deeper pink and white forms are also available.

Its hardy rootstock is also used by Kings Park horticultural staff for grafting more sensitive Pimelea species such as the Qualup Bell and the Banjong or Pimelea spectabilis.

Pimelea rosea – Rose Banjine

This beautiful WA native is found throughout the south-west. Its delicate pink flowers are similar to those of the Pink Riceflower, but with slightly finer leaves and a less compact growth habit.

Cultivars of both species generally grow to around 1 metre high and 1 metre wide, suiting them well to smaller gardens and mixed native plantings.

If visiting Kings Park, speak to Guides in the Visitor Information Centre about where to see and enjoy Pimeleas.