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Thunbergia alata
Thunbergia alata, commonly known as the "black-eyed Susan vine", is a herbaceous climbing plant species in the family Acanthaceae, and is native to Eastern Africa. This is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and is sold in widely in nurseries. It is a long-lived (ie: perennial) plant growing up to 5 metres in height, and comes in a variety of colours, although orange is the most common. The species has been naturalised in Australia, although is considered an environmental weed in several states.
A weed of waterways (i.e. riparian vegetation), urban bushland, forest margins, plantation crops, roadsides, disturbed sites and waste areas in tropical, sub-tropical and warmer temperate regions. (Brisbane City Council) I spotted this plant in an area of subtropical rainforest, along the creek course at J.C. Slaughter Falls, Mt. Coot-tha, Brisbane.
Not to be confused with Rudbeckia hirta, also commonly known as "black-eyed Susan".
Spotted on Apr 27, 2021
Submitted on Apr 30, 2021
2 Comments
I didn't know what this species was called until my sister told me - She's the gardener! That's why I added the note, because I only knew the daisy by that name. Yes, that spot is as black as the black of a black hole... almost! I've not heard of the name 'vantablack' before. What's "a certain German car maker" thinking by painting one of their vehicles that colour? You'll never find the thing when it breaks down at night... constantly!! Best they stick with black-eyed Susan orange or daisy yellow!!
Excellent. I Planted one about 25 years ago but it disappeared. A couple of years ago it returned and is now all over. Pleased. Thanks for the name.. I never even thought to look it up. Hey and isn't that black in the centre such a deep black. Reminds me of that new super black 'Vantablack'