After a decade-long journey of discovery and research, a ‘rare’ native shrub with distinctive foliage has been officially named, highlighting the ongoing exploration and appreciation of Australia’s unique ecosystems.
Eucalyptus sweedmaniana subspecies noongaring, commonly referred to as Noongaring muert, has been known to botanists since the 1960s.
However, it was not until Professor Stephen D. Hopper, a renowned biodiversity expert from the University of Western Australia, recognised it as a new and distinct plant over ten years ago that the process of formally naming the species began.
This remarkable mallee is found exclusively on the coastal granitic slopes of Yorlining (Mt Arid) in Cape Arid National Park and adjacent areas, approximately 900km from Perth. With only six known populations, ranging from a mere handful to a few thousand individuals, the Noongaring muert is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of life in the remote Aussie bush.
According to Professor Hopper, the plant boasts ‘very big, tough, leathery leaves’ that are ‘quite unusual’ for the Eucalyptus genus. These leaves are long-lived, potentially surviving for several decades under the right conditions, which is a stark contrast to the typical eucalyptus species, which shed their leaves frequently.
Adding to its allure, the Noongaring muert produces ‘stunning flowers that are a brilliant red colour’, an adaptation aimed at attracting birds and honey possums as pollinators.
The journey to officially name the Eucalyptus subspecies was a collaborative effort involving the Gabbie Kylie Foundation Field School, which focuses on conserving and interpreting Indigenous heritage in the southeast region.
The Western Australian Herbarium and Kings Park and Botanic Garden also played crucial roles in observing specimens and cultivating living plants for study.
The subspecies’ name is a tribute to the Noongar Aboriginal people, who have been stewards of the land in the Thomas River–Esperance region for thousands of years. The process of naming involved Noongar colleagues, who shared their deep connection to the country and their support for recognising the plant as something special to their land.
The lengthy naming process reflects the meticulous work required to distinguish a new species from those already known. Few botanists specialise in this area, and the plant’s habitat is remote, making the task challenging and time-consuming.
Professor Hopper has recommended that the Noongaring muert be listed as Priority 4 under Conservation Codes for Western Australian Flora, indicating that it is a species of concern that requires monitoring.
Who knew so much went into naming plants—and that much about the Australian wilderness still remains unknown to this day? We’d love to hear from you. Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
