Collected 1770: Endeavour River

Collected 2018: Murwillumbah

In this vivid and poetic portrait, the artist offers two reflected stems – one flowering and one fruiting. The simple sequences express the cycles of growth, maturation and death in singular detail and myriad colours. Also evident are the activities of insects across the soft and finely toothed leaves.

Callicarpa pedunculata is grown as an ornamental shrub. Attracting wildlife and pollinators, its dense habit provides protection for small birds, and the abundant fruit are an appealing food for birds and other wildlife. The fruit is astringent and too acidic to be eaten by people.