Narrow-leaved Isotoma

Description:

Isotoma anethifolia is a profusely-flowering perennial herb that grow up to 40cm high, and is a member of the family Campanulaceae. It is an Australian native that is endemic to the Granite Belt region of southern QLD and northern NSW. It's a very hardy species and the flowers are quite unusual, but nonetheless striking. The climate is extreme here - cold in winter and hot in summer. The name of this national park is Girraween, which means "place of flowers". PS: The last photo shows a hoverfly that was feeding on nectar at the time.... https://www.projectnoah.org/spottings/61...

Habitat:

Spotted at the base of a massive granite outcrop, surrounded by dry sclerophyll forest in Girraween National Park, along the Peak Trail. Sandy granite soils, substantial undergrowth and accumulated leaf litter, and foliage much greener and lush since the drought has broken. Sections of the track were still damp from recent rain. Here's some park info - http://www.rymich.com/girraween/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Girraween_...

Notes:

Although sometimes included in Campanulaceae, Isotoma are generally recognised as members of the Lobeliaceae family. The acrid milky sap of Isotoma anethifolia (and Isotoma axillaris) is a common characteristic in this family. It can cause severe irritation to skin and temporary blindness if inadvertent contact is made with eyes, and has been reported to be poisonous to stock. (ANBG website)