Epiphytic orchids are a common feature in tree dominated habitats in the Wet Tropics, and one of the more common epiphytic orchids in the region is the Giant Boat-Lip Orchid (Cymbidium madidum). The orchid is probably one of the most … Continue reading →
The legendary Sir David Attenborough once remarked that one of his favourite places in the world was Far North Queensland, and added further that the Cape Tribulation – Daintree area was among one of the most special places he had … Continue reading →
Meet “Allo the old cobber” – or at least what I imagine this familiar fella should be known as in Australia. Known to science since 1779, this shrub of mangroves and coastal regions is a well known and variable entity … Continue reading →
It was a pleasure to see Schefflera actinophylla, also known as the Queensland umbrella tree, octopus tree and amate, in it’s native habitat in the wet tropical forests Queensland. In it’s native habitat it is often a early successional tree … Continue reading →
This widespread and common shrub or tree is known as the Rusty Pittosporum, probably due to the rusty brown tomentum on the leaf underside, that is easy to rub off with the fingers. This character is not always present or … Continue reading →
The Swamp Satinash an endemic and is one of the more handsome of the native satinashes (Syzygium spp.), and also one of the more recognizable. It has very regular elliptic opposite leaves borne on twigs that are angular. More distinctively, … Continue reading →
The Giant Bramble is one of a few species of brambles related to blackberries and raspberries. True to the reputation of being a bramble, this species is thorny and not fun to go walking through. It is often found growing … Continue reading →
I would so love to see this amazingly ornamental species, the aptly naamed Crimson Penda, in its native habitat in the beach forests of Cape York. But I am not complaining at the privilege to encounter this beauty at the … Continue reading →
This is the well-known foambark tree famed for the saponin foam that forms on the bark after heavy rain. It is usually found in lowland areas in coastal rain forest but can also be seen in upland rain forest. The … Continue reading →
This attractive vine is known as the Burny Vine or Fire Vine and belongs to the Fig family. When not in fruit it looks like a climbing fig plant, especially since the leaves have that rather fig-ish look about them, … Continue reading →
Been in Australia for over a decade gazing at plants, both large and small, grasses and trees, in rain forest and savanna, in the tropics and in temperate zones. I love connecting with people with similar interests. You can read more about me on my About page and at my personal BLOG.
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Leaf Whispering in the Tropics 