Collected 1770: Bay of Inlets, Bustard Bay
Collected 2019: Toukley
The artist has produced a comprehensive study of Melaleuca quinquenervia. Fascinating details are beautifully arranged upon a background of forest habitat in this sensitive graphite drawing. Taking a scientific approach, presenting annotated components in black and white, the artist has incorporated depictions of the habit and habitat to further express the plant story. Tonal gradations in the drawing gently lead and focus the viewer’s attention.
Broad leaved paperbark grows in seasonally inundated plains and swamps, along estuary margins and is often the dominant species. The flowers serve as a rich food source for a wide range of insect, bird and animal species.
Melaleuca quinquenervia is widely used by Indigenous peoples. A brew made from bruised, young, aromatic leaves is traditionally used to treat colds, headaches and general sickness. The paper like bark is used for making coolamons, shelter, wrapping baked food and lining ground ovens. The nectar is extracted by washing in water and consumed as a beverage.