HOLCOLEMMA
B.K.Simon, C.M.Weiller & R.D.Webster
Holcolemma Stapf & C.E. Hubb., Bull. Misc. Inf. Kew 8: 244(1929); from Greek holcus (groove) and lemma, alluding to the grooved lower lemma.
Type: H. canaliculatum (Nees) Stapf & C.E.Hubb.
Rhizomatous. Ligule a fringed membrane. Plants with hermaphrodite florets. Inflorescence a panicle, exserted at maturity. Spikelets with disarticulation at the base of the spikelet, dorsally compressed, lanceolate. Glumes 2, ± equal, glabrous. Lower floret sterile; lemma membranous, 7–9 nerved; palea lanceolate. Upper floret bisexual; lemma 7–9 nerved, decidedly firmer than glumes. Hilum short.
A genus of 4 species from East Africa, southern India, Sri Lanka and Australia; 1 endemic species in Qld. The palea keels, which become indurated and develop coriaceous wings, embracing the margin of the upper floret, principally distinguish Holcolemma from Paspalidium, but do not assume their distinctive form until after anthesis.
O.Stapf & C.E.Hubbard, A new genus of grasses, Bull. Misc. Inf. Kew 1929: 244–247 (1929); W.D.Clayton, The genus Holcolemma (Gramineae), Kew Bull. 32: 773–774 (1978); W.D.Clayton, Miscellaneous notes on Panicoid grasses, Kew Bull. 42: 401–403 (1987).
Holcolemma dispar W.D.Clayton, Kew Bull. 42: 402 (1987)
Based on Panicum inaequale F.Muell., Fragm. 8: 189 (1874); Paspalidium inaequale (F.Muell.) Hughes, Bull. Misc. Inform. Kew 1923: 317 (1923); Setaria inaequalis (F.Muell.) R.D.Webster, Sida 16: 443 (1995). T: Dawson R., Qld, F.Mueller s.n., lecto, K ; isolecto: BRI, MEL (photo BRI), fide R.D. Webster, Sida 16: 443 (1995) as holo.
Illustrations: D. Sharp & B.K.Simon. AusGrass (2002).
Perennial. Flowering culms caespitose, 25–45 cm tall, 2–5 noded. Internodes longer than the associated leaf sheaths. Ligule 0.4–0.6 mm long. Leaf blades flat to involute, 5–8 cm long, 1.5–3 mm wide. Inflorescence 5–11 cm long. Primary branches 1–3 cm long. Spikelets 5–10 on a typical lowermost primary branch, 3.3–3.9 mm long, 1.1–1.3 mm wide. Glumes rounded on the back; lower glume triangular to ovate, 7–9 nerved (frequently difficult to observe); upper glume 1.8–2.2 mm long, elliptic to oblong, 11 nerved, mucronate. Lower floret; lemma 3.2–3.8 mm long, 1.1–1.3 mm wide, with apex acuminate to acute; palea acuminate to acute. Upper floret; lemma 2.3–2.4 mm long, yellow to brown, indurate, coarsely transversely rugose, elliptic; palea indurate, transversely rugose. Fig **.
Endemic; central coastal Qld. Tropical and subtropical rain forests and Brigalow forests. Flowering Mar. to July. Map 990.
Qld: Bowen, showground, S.T.Blake 18534 (BRI, CANB); 18 miles [29 km] E of May Downs HS, Story & Yapp 149 (CANB, BRI); Rockhampton, S.T.Blake 19936 (BRI, CANB); Macdesme via Ayr, May 1945, F.W. Hely s.n. (BRI); Marmor, S.T.Blake 12765 (BRI, CANB).
A rare species with transverse enrolling of the glumes.
WHITEOCHLOA
B.K.Simon, C.M.Weiller & R.D.Webster
Whiteochloa C.E. Hubb., Proc. Roy. Soc. Queensland 62: 111 (1952); Named for Cyril Tenison White, Queensland Government botanist 1917–1950.
Type: W. semitonsa (F.Muell. ex Benth.) C.E.Hubb.
Annual or perennial, rhizomatous or without rhizomes. Flowering culms caespitose or decumbent; nodes hairy or glabrous. Internodes longer than the associated leaf sheaths. Ligule a fringed membrane. Leaf blades flat or conduplicate. Plants dioecious, with hermaphrodite florets. Inflorescence a panicle, exserted at maturity. Spikelets with disarticulation at the base of the spikelet, laterally compressed (dorsally when immature), elliptic to oblong. Glumes 2, very unequal, hairy or glabrous, setose or strigose, the upper long relative to the adjacent lemmas, rounded on the back; lower glume ovate to lanceolate, 3 nerved or 5 nerved, hairy or glabrous, setose or strigose; upper glume elliptic to oblong, 5 nerved or 7 nerved, hairy or glabrous or scabrous, setose or strigose, apiculate. Lower floret male; lemma membranous to cartilaginous, with a hyaline area at the base, 5 nerved or 7 nerved, indumentum shorter than the spikelet, strigose, with apex acuminate to acute; palea ovate to elliptic, acute. Upper floret bisexual; lemma yellow, cartilaginous to indurate, smooth or finely transversely rugose, oblong to elliptic; palea cartilaginous to indurate, transversely rugose. Hilum short.
A genus of 6 species, all native to Australia, with 1 species extending to Aru Island, Indonesia. A variable genus difficult to distinguish from Panicum as the characteristic upper rhachilla internode requires careful dissection (Clayton and Renvoize, 1986). Whiteochloa has an interesting combination of characters and its affinities within the tribe are unclear. The lateral compression of the spikelets and stipitate upper floret suggests affinity with Ichnanthus, Yakirra, or Arthragrostis. The rugose upper floret and spikelet bearing branches terminating in a spikelet suggests affinity with Eriochloa or Urochloa. However Whiteochloa is C4subtype NADP-ME, whereas Eriochloa and Urochloa are C4subtype PCK (Webster, 1987).
C.E.Hubbard, Whiteochloa, a new genus of grasses from the Northern Territory of Australia. Proc. Roy. Soc. Qld 62: 109–112 (1952). M.Lazarides, The Genus Whiteochloa C.E.Hubbard (Poaceae, Paniceae), Brunonia 1: 69–93 (1978).
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1 Inflorescence racemose, spikelets on pedicels up to 6 mm long |
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2 Perennial |
1. W. airoides |
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2: Annuals |
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3 Surface of upper lemma rugose; all inflorescence branches terminating in spikelets |
2. W. semitonsa |
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3: Surface of upper lemma smooth; some inflorescence branches terminating in bristles |
3. W. cymbiformis |
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1: Inflorescence paniculate, spikelets on pedicels up to 30 mm long |
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4 Spikelets glabrous |
4. W. capillipes |
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4: Spikelets hairy |
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5 Upper glume 5‑nerved; lower glume c. 1.5 mm long |
5. W. biciliata |
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5: Upper glume 7‑nerved; lower glume c. 1 mm long |
6. W. multiciliata |
? Whiteochloa sp. Hann River (Aplin 917 et al, PERTH)
1. Whiteochloa airoides (R. Br.)Lazarides, Brunonia 1: 73 (1978)
Panicum airoides R.Br., Prodr. 190 (1810). T: Cape Shield, Gulf of Carpentaria, N.T., R.Brown Iter Australiense 6112; holo: BM (photos BRI); iso: B, n.v., BRI, E , K (photo BRI), MEL , P, n.v..
Illustrations: M.Lazarides, op. cit. 75, fig. 1; D.Sharp & B.K.Simon, AusGrass (2002).
Perennial, rhizomatous or without rhizomes. Flowering culms caespitose or decumbent, 45–110 cm tall, 3–4 noded; nodes hairy (rarely glabrous). Internodes longer than the associated leaf sheaths. Ligule 0.3–0.7 mm long. Leaf blades flat to conduplicate, 10–24 cm long, 1.5–5.5 mm wide. Inflorescence a raceme, 7–25 cm long. Primary branches 3–12 cm long. Spikelets 8–20 on a typical lowermost primary branch, elliptic to oblong, 3–4 mm long, 0.9–1.1 mm wide. Glumes glabrous, rounded on the back; lower glume 1.2-1.8 mm long, not fused with the callus, ovate, 3 nerved; upper glume 3–4 mm long, elliptic to oblong, 7 nerved, apiculate. Lower floret male; lemma 2.9–3.9 mm long, 0.8–1.1 mm wide, membranous to cartilaginous, with a hyaline area at the base, 5 nerved, with apex acuminate to acute; palea ovate to elliptic, acute. Upper floret; lemma 1.7–2.3 mm long, yellow, cartilaginous to indurate, finely transversely rugose, elliptic; palea cartilaginous to indurate, transversely rugose.
Endemic; widespread across tropical Australia. Tropical and subtropical rain forests, tropical and subtropical sub-humid woodlands, and coastal grasslands. Flowering throughout the year. Map 994.
W.A.: Boodarie Stn., J.Stretch s.n, Mar 1983, (BRI, CANB, DNA, K, PERTH). N.T.: Florina Site, 19 miles [30.6 km] SE of Katherine, M.Lazarides 6972 (BRI, CANB); Borroloola, N.Byrnes 2512 (BRI, CANB, DNA). Qld: near source of Poison Ck c. 90 miles [145 km] N of Hughenden, S.T.Blake 8568 (BRI, CANB); 17 miles [27.4 km] SSW of Mt. Garnet Township, S.T.Blake 4218 (BRI, CANB).
A widespread species with variable inflorescence form.
Soft and palatable when young. Extends to coastal sand dunes as a cover plant.
2. Whiteochloa semitonsa (F. Muell. ex Benth.) C.E. Hubb., Proc. Roy. Soc. Queensland 62: 111 (1952)
Panicum semitonsum F.Muell. ex Benth., Fl. Austral. 7: 483 (1878); Paspalidium semitonsum (F.Muell. ex Benth.) Hughes, Bull. Misc. Inform. Kew 1923: 317 (1923). T: Victoria R., N.T., J.R.Elsey; lecto: K (photo BRI) fide D.K. Hughes, Kew Bull. 9: 30 (1923).
Illustrations: M.Lazarides, Brunonia 1: op. cit. 81, fig.2 (1977).
Annual. Flowering culms caespitose (rarely slightly decumbent at the lower nodes), 30–60 cm tall, 3–6 noded; nodes hairy (usually). Internodes longer than the associated leaf sheaths. Leaf blades flat or conduplicate, 6–12 cm long, 3–5 mm wide. Inflorescence a raceme, 8–14 cm long. Primary branches 2–8 cm long. Spikelets 8–32 on a typical lowermost primary branch, elliptic to obovate, 2.5–3.5 mm long, 0.7–0.9 mm wide. Glumes rounded on the back; lower glume 1-1.5 mm long, ovate, 3 nerved, hairy (frequently with ciliate margins) or glabrous, strigose; upper glume 2.5–3.4 mm long, elliptic to oblong, 7 nerved, hairy (rarely glabrous), strigose, mucronate. Lower floret male; lemma 2.5–3.4 mm long, 0.7–0.9 mm wide, membranous, with a hyaline area at the base, 5 nerved, indumentum shorter than the spikelet, strigose, with apex acute; palea elliptic, acute. Upper floret; lemma 1.7–2.5 mm long, yellow, indurate, finely transversely rugose, elliptic; palea indurate, transversely rugose. Anthers 1.7–2.2 mm long.
Endemic; mostly tropical N.T. and a few records from the Gulf and Cape York in Qld. Tropical and subtropical sub-humid woodlands. Flowering Feb. to July. Map 996.
N.T.: Wangi Falls, Litchfield NP, B.K.Simon 4059 (BRI, DNA). Katherine Gorge, M.Lazarides 7027 (BRI, CANB); Adelaide R, S.T.Blake 16459 (BRI, CANB, DNA, K, L, MO, NSW, PERTH) (form with galbrous glumes); c. 22 miles [35.4 km] SW of Maningrida, P.K.Latz 3041 (BRI, CANB). Qld: Riversleigh, S.T.Blake 8642 (BRI).
Diagnostic features of W. semitonsa include the racemose primary branches, short pedicels, usually glabrous culm nodes and overlapping spikelets. The glumes are glabrous or hairy with tubercle-based hairs along the nerves. It is tempting to assign formal names to the glabrous and hairy glumed forms, until it was found that there are some collections with both glabrous and hairy spikelets on the same plant (viz.Lazarides 7014, Adams 913 (both CANB). The lemma of the lower floret has a distinct vertical groove and a hyaline area at the base. At maturity, the lemma splits along this groove exposing the well developed stamens of the lower floret and facilitates dispersal of the mature pollen.
3. Whiteochloa cymbiformis (Hughes) B.K. Simon, Austrobaileya 2: 23 (1984)
Panicum cymbiforme Hughes, Bull. Misc. Inform. Kew 1923: 323 (1923). T: Cygnet Bay, W.A., A.Cunningham 341; holo: K (photo BRI); iso: BRI.
Illustrations: C.A.Gardner, Fl. W. Australia 1: 255 (1952), as Panicum cymbiforme; D.Sharp & B.K.Simon, AusGrass (2002)
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Annual or perennial, stoloniferous or without stolons. Flowering culms caespitose or decumbent, 50–150 cm tall, 3–8 noded. Internodes longer than the associated leaf sheaths. Ligule a fringe of hairs, 0.5–1.2 mm long. Leaf blades flat or conduplicate, 12–40 cm long, 4–15 mm wide. Inflorescence a raceme, 25–50 cm long. Primary branches 7–18 cm long. Spikelets 30–150 on a typical lowermost primary branch, lanceolate to elliptic, 2.8–3.9 mm long, 0.9–1.2 mm wide. Glumes rounded on the back (but slightly keeled); lower glume 0.8-1.5 mm long, not fused with the callus, ovate, 3 nerved or 5 nerved, glabrous; upper glume 2.3–3.2 mm long, elliptic, 7 nerved or 9 nerved, glabrous, muticous. Lower floret male; lemma 2.5–3.5 mm long, 0.9–1.2 mm wide, membranous, with a hyaline area at the base, 5 nerved or 7 nerved (the central nerve in sunken to produce a deep groove), with apex acute; palea elliptic, acute. Upper floret; lemma 1.7–2.3 mm long, white, cartilaginous, smooth, elliptic; palea cartilaginous, smooth. Anthers 1.9–2.4 mm long.
Endemic; tropical and arid W.A. and N.T. Tropical and subtropical sub-humid woodlands, arid and semi-arid low woodlands, acacia shrublands, arid tussock grasslands, and arid hummock grasslands. Flowering mostly Feb. to July. Map 995.
W.A.: Police Camp Pool, Lennard R. crossing on Gibb R. Road, B.K.Simon 3865 (AD, BRI, CANB, DNA, K, MEL, MO, NSW, PERTH); Noonkanbah, C.A.Gardner 7107 (BRI, PERTH); Lake Argyle picnic ground, B.K.Simon 3712 & R.J.Petheram (BRI, CANB, K, MEL, PERTH). N.T.: 53 mi E of Bonney Well, P.K.Latz 2167 (BRI, DNA); Jasper Gorge, A.C.Beauglehole 46638 (BRI, CANB, DNA).
A very interesting feature of W. cymbiformis is the presence of filiform bristles which terminate some branches. Some specimens completely lack these structures, however, bristles are usually present. This is the only species that is variable for this taxonomically very important character.
Soft and palatable when young.
4. Whiteochloa capillipes (Benth.)Lazarides, Brunonia 1: 79 (1978)
Panicum capillipes Benth., Fl. Austral. 7: 484 (1878). T: Port Darwin, N.T., Schultz 806; lecto: K (photo BRI); isolecto: BRI, fide D.K. Hughes, Bull. Misc. Inform. 1923: 324 (1923).
Illustrations: M.Lazarides, op. cit. 83, fig. 3; D.Sharp & B.K.Simon, AusGrass (2002).
Annual or perennial, rhizomatous or without rhizomes. Flowering culms caespitose, 50–100 cm tall, 4–6 noded. Internodes longer than the associated leaf sheaths. Ligule 0.4–0.8 mm long. Leaf blades flat, 10–25 cm long, 2.5–7 mm wide. Inflorescence a panicle, 10–25 cm long. Primary branches 4–14 cm long. Spikelets with disarticulation at the base of the spikelet (with a secondary point of disarticulation at the base of the upper floret), 12–50 on a typical lowermost primary branch, elliptic, 2.2–3 mm long, 0.8–1 mm wide. Glumes rounded on the back; lower glume 0.8 1.1 mm long, ovate, 3 nerved, glabrous; upper glume 2.2–2.9 mm long, elliptic, 5 nerved or 7 nerved, glabrous, apiculate. Lower floret male; lemma 2.2–2.9 mm long, 0.8–1.1 mm wide, membranous (becoming much thinner at the base), with a hyaline area at the base or lacking a hyaline area at the base, 5 nerved, with apex acute; palea elliptic, acute. Upper floret; lemma 1.7–2.1 mm long, white to yellow, cartilaginous, finely transversely rugose, elliptic, without laterally attached basal appendages; palea cartilaginous, transversely rugose. Anthers 1.1–1.5 mm long
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Native; tropical Australia, New Guinea and Malesia (Aru Is.).Most Australian records from the N.T. Tropical and subtropical sub-humid woodlands. Flowering mostly Feb. to June. Map 991.
W.A.: Embayment of Hill View Ra, 25 Km NNE of Wyndham, K.Paijmans 2472 (CANB). Lacrosse Island at head of Cambridge Gulf, K.Kenneally 11326 (CANB, PERTH) CHECK THESE
N.T.: N of Nutwood Downs HS, S.T.Blake 17580 (AD, BRI, CANB, DNA, NSW, PERTH); Howley Ck, M.Lazarides & L.Adams 245 (BRI, CANB, NSW, US). Qld: 4 mi E of Normanton, M.Lazarides 4299 (BRI, CANB).
The most obvious diagnostic feature of the species is the open diffuse panicle. The secondary branches are spreading with relatively long spreading pedicels. Two species of this genus have racemose primary branches. Reduction of the primary branches form open paniculate to racemose is of limited taxonomic significance at the generic level.
5. Whiteochloa biciliata Lazarides, Brunonia 1: 85 (1978)
T: Cockatoo Sands near Kununurra, W.A., 8 Mar. 1963, M.Lazarides 6791; holo: CANB; iso: BRI, K, L, NT, PERTH, US.
Illustrations: M.Lazarides, op. cit. 87, fig. 4.
Annual. Flowering culms caespitose or decumbent, 40–110 cm tall, 3–7 noded. Internodes longer than the associated leaf sheaths. Ligule 0.2–0.5 mm long. Leaf blades flat or conduplicate, 5–15 cm long, 2–5 mm wide. Inflorescence a panicle, 8–15 cm long. Primary branches 5–12 cm long. Spikelets 20–60 on a typical lowermost primary branch, elliptic, 2.5–3.8 mm long, 0.7–1 mm wide. Glumes rounded on the back; lower glume 1.3 – 2 mm long, ovate or lanceolate, 3 nerved, hairy or glabrous, strigose; upper glume 2.4–3.7 mm long, elliptic to oblong, 5 nerved, hairy (rarely glabrous), setose, apiculate. Lower floret male; lemma 2.4–3.7 mm long, 0.7–1 mm wide, membranous, with a hyaline area at the base, 5 nerved, indumentum shorter than the spikelet, setaceous, with apex acuminate to acute; palea elliptic, acute. Upper floret; lemma 1.7–2.3 mm long, yellow, cartilaginous, finely transversely rugose, elliptic; palea cartilaginous, transversely rugose (faint). Fig **.
Endemic; the Kimberley region of W.A. Tropical and subtropical sub-humid woodlands. Flowering Mar. to Aug. Map 992.
W.A.: 7 km W of Kunanurra, B.K.Simon 3698 & R.J.Petheram (BRI, CANB, DNA, K, L, MEL, MO, NSW, PERTH, PRE); 19 miles SE of Tablelands HS, M.Lazarides 5107 (BRI, CANB). Kimberley RS, N.T.Burbidge 5202 (BRI, CANB); The Gorge, Station Ck, 35 km NNE of Carlron Hill HS, M.Lazarides 8465 (BRI, CANB); Hidden Valley, Kunanurra, R.Pullen 10.838 (BRI, CANB).
A little-grazed increaser species.
6. Whiteochloa multiciliata Lazarides, Brunonia 1: 88 (1978)
T: on Stuart Hwy 10.5 miles [16.9 km] SE of Mataranka, N.T., 21 Mar. 1964, Lazarides 7093; holo: CANB; iso: BRI, K, L, NSW, NT, PERTH, US.
Illustrations: M.Lazarides, op. cit. 91, fig. 5.
Annual. Flowering culms caespitose or decumbent, 45–100 cm tall, 4–6 noded. Internodes longer than the associated leaf sheaths. Ligule 0.4–0.7 mm long. Leaf blades flat, 8–18 cm long, 2.5–6 mm wide. Inflorescence a panicle, 12–18 cm long. Primary branches 7–14 cm long. Spikelets 28–80 on a typical lowermost primary branch, elliptic, 2.5–3.5 mm long, 0.8–1.2 mm wide. Glumes rounded on the back; lower glume 0.8-1.2 mm long, ovate, 3 nerved or 5 nerved, hairy or glabrous, strigose; upper glume 2.4–3.4 mm long, elliptic, 7 nerved, hairy, strigose, apiculate. Lower floret male; lemma 2.4–3.4 mm long, 0.8–1.2 mm wide, membranous, with a hyaline area at the base, 5 nerved, indumentum shorter than the spikelet, strigose, with apex acute; palea elliptic, acuminate. Upper floret; lemma 1.5–2.1 mm long, white to yellow, cartilaginous, finely transversely rugose, elliptic; palea cartilaginous, transversely rugose. Anthers 1–1.2 mm long. Fig **.
Endemic; Most specimens from the Mataranka region of the N.T. Tropical and subtropical sub-humid woodlands. Flowering Jan. to Apr. Map 993.
N.T.: 2.5 miles [4 km] E of Maranboy siding, I.B.Wilson 121 (BRI, CANB); c. 60 miles [96.6 km] NE of Maranboy Police Stn, M.Lazarides 53 & L. Adams (B, BRI, CANB, DNA, E, K, L, LE, NSW, US); c. 60 miles [96.6 km] NE of Maranboy Police Stn., M.Lazarides & L.Adams 100 (AD, B, BRI, CANB, DNA, K, L, MEL, MO, NSW, P, PERTH, US); 15 miles [24.1 km] NE of Mataranka, M.Lazarides 7098 (BRI, CANB); 11 miles [17.7 km] NE of Mataranka, M.Lazarides 7096 (BRI, CANB).
This species is recognised as Rare in J.D.Briggs & J.H.Leigh, Rare or Threatened Australian Plants (1995).
YAKIRRA
B.K.Simon, C.M.Weiller & R.D.Webster
Yakirra Lazarides & R.D. Webster, Brunonia 7: 292 (1985); Yakirra: aboriginal name for some of the species.
Type: Y. pauciflora (R.Br.) Lazarides & R.D.Webster.
Annual or perennial (occasionally with a hard crown at ground level which may indicate a perennial habit), rhizomatous or without rhizomes. Flowering culms caespitose; nodes hairy or glabrous. Internodes longer than the associated leaf sheaths or shorter than the associated leaf sheaths. Ligule a fringe of hairs. Leaf blades flat to involute. Plants bisexual. Inflorescence a panicle or a raceme (normally a panicle, but in Y. australiensis the inflorescence is not exserted and in the very compacted forms at least some of the inflorescences are simple racemes), exserted at maturity or not fully exserted. Spikelets with disarticulation above the glumes and at the base of the spikelet, dorsally compressed, ovate to oblanceolate. Glumes 2, very unequal, long relative to the adjacent lemmas, rounded on the back; lower glume ovate, 3–9 nerved, glabrous, with setae in a transverse row; upper glume elliptic to oblanceolate, 7–9 nerved, glabrous (adaxial apex hairy), muticous. Lower floret; sterile; lemma membranous, 5–9 nerved, with apex acuminate to acute; palea vestigial to absent. Upper floret bisexual; lemma yellow to brown, indurate, smooth, elliptic; palea indurate, smooth; lodicules developed, or absent or vestigial. Hilum short.
A genus of 7 species, 6 native in Australia and 1 in Burma. All Australian species were originally placed in the genus Ichnanthus by D.K.Hughes (1923), but unlike this genus the rachilla internodes are never adnate to the lemma base, and the two genera appear to have developed this character independently. The rachilla internodes may serve as elaiosomes, attracting dispersal by ants. Yakirra nulla, possessing a stout upper internode without auricles, links the genus to Panicum (Clayton and Renvoize, 1986).
D.K.Hughes, Ichnanthus in The genus Panicum of the Flora Australiensis, Kew Bull. Misc. Inform. 1923: 328–330 (1923); M.Lazarides, The Australian species referred to Ichnanthus Beauv. (Gramineae), Austral. J. Bot. 7: 328–346 (1959); M.Lazarides & R.D.Webster, Yakirra (Paniceae, Poaceae), a new genus for Australia, Brunonia 7: 289–296 (1985); R.Y.Berg, Spikelet structure in Panicum australiense(Poaceae): Taxonomic and Ecological Implications, Austral. J. Bot. 33: 579–583 (1985).
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1 Upper floret yellow to brown; stipe appendages stiff and hard; perennial |
1. Y. websteri |
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1: Upper floret pale; stipe appendages soft and flexible; annuals |
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2 Inflorescence mostly overtopped by subtending leaves |
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3 Spikelets 4.7‑5.25 mm long |
2. Y. muelleri |
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3:Spikelets 3‑4.5 mm long |
3. Y. australiensis |
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2: Inflorescence exserted above subtending leaves |
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4 Spikelets 5.5‑7 mm long |
4. Y. majuscula |
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4: Spikelets 4‑5 mm long |
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5 Appendages developed at base of fertile floret |
5. Y. pauciflora |
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5: Appendages absent |
6. Y. nulla |
1. Yakirra websteri B.K. Simon, Austrobaileya 3: 602 (1992)
T: 93 km N of Langlo Crossing, Mitchell District, Qld, Jul.1975, G.R.Beeston 1361C; holo: BRI; iso BRI, CANB, K, NSW.
Illustrations: **.
Perennial, rhizomatous. Flowering culms 25–80 cm tall, 2–3 noded. Internodes shorter than the associated leaf sheaths. Ligule 0.5 mm long. Leaf blades flat, 7–12 cm long, 2–5 mm wide. Inflorescence a panicle, 12–20 cm long. Primary branches 1 cm long (at base of rachis). Spikelets with disarticulation at the base of the spikelet, ovate, 2.5 mm long, 1.5 mm wide. Glumes rounded on the back; lower glume c.1.5 mm long, not fused with the callus, triangular, 3 nerved (sub 5), glabrous; upper glume 2.5 mm long, ovate, 9 nerved, glabrous. Lower floret; lemma membranous, with apex acuminate; palea ovate, acute. Upper floret; lemma 1.8 mm long, brown (nerves white), chartaceous, elliptic; palea chartaceous, uniformily striate. Fig **.
Endemic; Rare (2 collections) from central Qld. Flowering May to July. Map 1003.
1. Yakirra websteri B.K. Simon, Austrobaileya 3: 602 (1992)
T: 93 km N of Langlo Crossing, Mitchell District, Qld, Jul.1975, G.R.Beeston 1361C; holo: BRI; iso BRI, CANB, K, NSW.
Illustrations: **.
Perennial, rhizomatous. Flowering culms 25–80 cm tall, 2–3 noded. Internodes shorter than the associated leaf sheaths. Ligule 0.5 mm long. Leaf blades flat, 7–12 cm long, 2–5 mm wide. Inflorescence a panicle, 12–20 cm long. Primary branches 1 cm long (at base of rachis). Spikelets with disarticulation at the base of the spikelet, ovate, 2.5 mm long, 1.5 mm wide. Glumes rounded on the back; lower glume c.1.5 mm long, not fused with the callus, triangular, 3 nerved (sub 5), glabrous; upper glume 2.5 mm long, ovate, 9 nerved, glabrous. Lower floret; lemma membranous, with apex acuminate; palea ovate, acute. Upper floret; lemma 1.8 mm long, brown (nerves white), chartaceous, elliptic; palea chartaceous, uniformily striate. Fig **.
Endemic; Rare (2 collections) from central Qld. Flowering May to July. Map 1003.
Qld: 39 km from Roma on Injune Rd., Maranoa District, B.K.Simon 2859 & J.R.Clarkson (BRI).Qld: 39 km from Roma on Injune Rd., Maranoa District, B.K.Simon 2859 & J.R.Clarkson (BRI).
This species differs from all other species of Yakirra by the stipe of the upper floret having shorter and hardened appendages, by the fertile floret being brown to yellow in colour and by the perennial habit.
2. Yakirra muelleri (Hughes) Lazarides & R.D. Webster, Brunonia 7: 294 (1985)
Ichnanthus muelleri Hughes, Bull. Misc. Inform. Kew 1923: 329 (1923); Panicum muelleri (Hughes) Lazarides, Austral. J. Bot. 7: 335 (1959). T: near King Sound, W.A., F.Mueller s.n.; holo: K [check BM] (photo BRI); iso: MEL, P. (MEL has 2 specimens collected by Poulton (11 and 15) from near King’s Sound - they sound like they may have been given to Mueller, who never collected at Kings Sound (fide Neville Walsh).
Illustrations: D.Sharp & B.K.Simon, AusGrass (2002).
Annual. Flowering culms caespitose, 8–30 cm tall, 4–8 noded; nodes hairy. Internodes longer than the associated leaf sheaths. Ligule 0.4–1.5 mm long. Leaf blades flat to involute, 2–12 cm long, 1–5 mm wide. Inflorescence a panicle or a raceme, not fully exserted, 1–8 cm long. Primary branches 1–5 cm long. Spikelets with disarticulation above the glumes and at the base of the spikelet, 1–6 on a typical lowermost primary branch, lanceolate to elliptic or oblanceolate, 4.7–5.5 mm long, 1.4–1.7 mm wide. Glumes rounded on the back; lower glume not fused with the callus, ovate, 5–7 nerved, glabrous; upper glume 4.7–5.5 mm long, lanceolate to elliptic or oblanceolate, 7 nerved, glabrous, muticous. Lower floret; sterile; lemma 4.7–5.5 mm long, 1.4–1.7 mm wide, membranous, 7 nerved, with apex acuminate to acute; palea vestigial or absent. Upper floret; lemma 2.9–3.4 mm long, yellow, indurate, elliptic; palea indurate, smooth. Fig **.
Endemic; fairly widespread in arid and tropical Australia. Tropical and subtropical sub-humid woodlands, arid and semi-arid low woodlands, acacia shrublands, and arid tussock grasslands. Flowering Apr. to July. Map 999.
N.T.: O.T.Station, S.T.Blake 17670 (BRI, CANB, DNA, NSW). Qld: Chillagoe, S.T.Blake 13511 (AD, BRI, CANB, NSW, PERTH); 3 km W of Yarrowmere HS, E.J.Thompson BUC967A & R.J.Henderson (BRI); Gilruth Plains, S.T.Blake 14061 (BRI, CANB); 15 km S of Charleville, R.Purdie & D.Boyland 231 (BRI).
3. Yakirra australiensis (Domin) Lazarides & R.D. Webster, Brunonia 7: 293 (1985)
Panicum australiense Domin, J. Linn. Soc., Bot. 41: 271 and 283, t. 10 fig. 10, t. 11 figs 8–12 (1912); Ichnanthus australiensis (Domin) Hughes, Bull. Misc. Inform. Kew 1923: 329 (1923); Lazarides, Austral. J. Bot. 7: 333 (1959). T: between the Ashburton and Yule Rivers, W.A., Clement s.n.; holo: K (photo BRI); iso: BRI.
Panicum pauciflorum var. fastigiatum Benth., Fl. Austral. 7: 483 (1878). T: upper Victoria R., F.Mueller s.n.; lecto: K (photo BRI), fide R.D. Webster, Austral. Paniceae 265 (1987); isolecto: BRI, MEL (photo BRI).
Annual or perennial. Flowering culms caespitose, 5–30 cm tall (-35), 5–10 noded. Internodes shorter than the associated leaf sheaths. Ligule 0.5–2 mm long. Plants with hermaphrodite florets. Inflorescence a panicle or a raceme, not fully exserted. Lower floret;. Upper floret ;. Lodicules developed. Bunch Panic.
Endemic; widespread in arid and tropical Australia.
Short-lived fodder endemic
There are two varieties.
Primary branches appressed to main axis Y. australiensis var. australiensis
Primary branches exserted and spreading Y. australiensis var. intermedia.
3a. Yakirra australiensis var. australiensis
Illustrations: C.A.Gardner, Fl. W. Australia 1: 263 (1952), as Ichnanthus australiensis; J.P.Jessop in J.P.Jessop & H.R.Toelken (eds), Fl. S. Australia 4th edn, 4: 1981, fig. 905A (1986) as Yakirra australiensis.
Annual or perennial. Nodes hairy (occasionally with a few scattered hairs) or glabrous. Leaf blades flat to involute, 3–10 cm long, 1–4 mm wide. Inflorescence 2–5 cm long. Primary branches 0.5–2 cm long. Spikelets with disarticulation above the glumes and at the base of the spikelet, 2–5 on a typical lowermost primary branch, elliptic to oblong, 3.2–4.5 mm long, 1–1.4 mm wide. Glumes rounded on the back; lower glume 1.6–2.8 mm long, ovate to elliptic, 3–5 nerved (mostly 5), glabrous; upper glume 3–4.3 mm long, elliptic to oblong, 7 nerved, glabrous, muticous. Lower floret sterile; lemma 3.2–4.5 mm long, 1–1.4 mm wide, membranous, 7 nerved, with apex acuminate; palea vestigial; lemma 2.3–2.8 mm long, yellow to brown (at maturity), indurate, elliptic to ovate; palea indurate, smooth. Anthers 1–1.5 mm long. Fig **.
Native. Arid and semi-arid low woodlands, shrub steppe shrublands, acacia shrublands, arid tussock grasslands, and arid hummock grasslands. Flowering mostly Feb. to Aug. Map 997.
W.A.: 40 miles S of Broome, A.C.Beauglehole 11285 (BRI, NSW, PERTH). N.T.: Tea Tree Station, B.K.Simon 4120 & P.K.Latz (BRI, DNA); Carrara Ck, P.K.Latz 1669 (BRI, CANB). Qld: 106 km N of Dajarra on Mt. Isa Rd, P.I.Forster 21165 & R.Booth (BRI, DNA, MEL).
Diagnostic features include spikelet length, plant height and the reduced, non-exserted inflorescence. Some specimens from the northern part of its distribution may have an inflorescence that barely exceeds the subtending leaf blade.
3b. Yakirra australiensis var. intermedia R.D. Webster, Austral. Paniceae 266 (1987)
T: Near Lucky Hill 23 km NNE of Dunham R., M. Lazarides 8547; holo: CANB.
Annual. Flowering culms 15–30 cm tall (-35). Ligule 0.5–1 mm long. Leaf blades 3–7 cm long, 0.5–4 mm wide. Primary branches 2–4 cm long. Spikelets 4–7 on a typical lowermost primary branch, 3.2–3.9 mm long, 1–1.3 mm wide; lower glume 1.7–2.4 mm long, 3–5 nerved; upper glume 3.2–3.9 mm long, 7 nerved; lemma 3.2–3.8 mm long, 7 nerved; lemma 2.3–3 mm long.
Tropical and subtropical sub-humid woodlands, arid and semi-arid low woodlands, arid hummock grasslands, and tropical sub-humid grasslands. Flowering Nov. to Apr. Map 998.
W.A.: Bindoola Ck, M.Lazarides 8624 (BRI, CANB); 5 km N of Point Coulomb, K.F.Kenneally 5905 (CANB, PERTH); Donkey Ck, Gibb R Rd, B.K.Simon 3930B (BRI). N.T.: O.T.Station, S.T.Blake 17671 (BRI, CANB, DNA, NSW, PERTH). Qld: 25 mile hut on Normanton-Croydon road, H.G.Bishop 264 (BRI).
Intermediate between Y. australiensis and Y. pauciflora. A generally more profusely branching pattern and smaller spikelet size distinguishes it from Y. pauciflora; whereas a more exserted inflorescence and spreading primary branches separate it from var. australiensis. The more open form of its inflorescence and usually larger plants may be the result of this taxon generally occurring in less arid areas.
4. Yakirra majuscula (F.Muell. ex Benth.) Lazarides & R.D. Webster, Brunonia 7: 295 (1985)
Panicum majusculum F.Muell. ex Benth., Fl. Austral. 7: 482 (1878); Ichnanthus majusculus (F.Muell. ex Benth.) Hughes, Bull. Misc. Inform. Kew 1923: 329 (1923). T: Victoria R., N.T., Elsey s.n.; holo: K (photo BRI); iso: MEL (photo BRI).
Panicum majusculum var. pilosum Domin, Biblioth. Bot. 85: 310, fig. 68 (1915). T: Chillagoe District, bei Chillagoe, ... nordlich von Chillagoe und am Walsh R., Qld, Feb. 1910, K.Domin [1152, 1153, 1154]; holo: PR, n.v. (photo BRI).
Illustrations: K.Domin, op.cit. (1915) as Panicum majusculum var. pilosum; M.Lazarides, Austral. J. Bot. 7: 339, fig.4 (1959), as Panicum majusculum; D.Sharp & B.K.Simon, AusGrass (2002).
Annual. Flowering culms caespitose, 31–75 cm tall, 3–7 noded. Internodes longer than the associated leaf sheaths. Ligule 0.5–2 mm long. Leaf blades flat, 7–30 cm long, 2–7 mm wide. Inflorescence a panicle, exserted at maturity or not fully exserted (rarely), 6–15 cm long. Primary branches 2–10 cm long. Spikelets with disarticulation above the glumes and at the base of the spikelet, 3–8 on a typical lowermost primary branch, elliptic to oblong, 5.3–6.8 mm long, 1.7–2.5 mm wide. Glumes rounded on the back; lower glume ovate, 1.1–2.3 mm long, 7–9 nerved (rarely 5 with obscure lateral nerves), glabrous; upper glume 5.3–6.8 mm long, elliptic to oblong, 7–9 nerved, margins neither noticeably flared nor hyaline (that part of the second glume not associated with the upper floret is hairy on the adaxial surface), glabrous, muticous. Lower floret; sterile; lemma 5.3–6.8 mm long, 1.7–2.5 mm wide, membranous, 7–9 nerved, with nerves without slit-like interspacing, with apex acuminate to acute; palea absent; lemma 3.4–5.1 mm long, yellow to brown, indurate, elliptic to ovate; palea indurate, smooth. Anthers 1.5–2.2 mm long. Fig **
Endemic; Widespread in tropical Australia. Tropical and subtropical sub-humid woodlands, arid and semi-arid low woodlands, arid hummock grasslands, and tropical sub-humid grasslands. Flowering mostly Feb. to Sep. Map 1002.
W.A.: 10 miles S of Denham R. Sta, M.Lazarides 5051 (BRI, CANB). N.T.: 2 miles W of Elliot, P.K.Latz 1366 (BRI, DNA); 15 miles N of Katherine, G.Chippendale 7520 (BRI, DNA). Qld: 0.8 km S of Laura R. crossing on Peninsula Development Rd, J.R.Clarkson 6807 & W.J.F McDonald (BRI, L, NSW, MBA, QRS); north of Chillagoe near Walsh R., S.T.Blake 13608 (BRI, CANB, NSW, PERTH).
Similar to Y. pauciflora but can be distinguished on spikelet size. These species have in common the unusual characteristic of hairs on the adaxial surface of the upper glume and lower lemma. In general, Y. majusculum is distributed N of Y. australiensis, and tends to be less branched and taller in habit.
Short-lived fodder endemic.
5. Yakirra pauciflora (R. Br.) Lazarides & R.D. Webster, Brunonia 7: 294 (1985)
Panicum pauciflorum R.Br., Prodr. 191 (1810); Ichnanthus pauciflorus (R.Br.) Hughes, Bull. Misc. Inform. Kew 1923: 330 (1923). T: North Coast, Carpentaria [N.T.], 1803, R.Brown Iter Australiense 6109.; holo: BM (photo BRI); iso: B, BRI, E, K (photo BRI), MEL, P, US (photo BRI).
Illustrations: D.Sharp & B.K.Simon, AusGrass (2002).
Annual. Flowering culms caespitose, 31–75 cm tall, 4–8 noded. Internodes longer than the associated leaf sheaths. Ligule 0.5–2 mm long. Leaf blades flat to involute (normally flat), 4–20 cm long, 1.5–5 mm wide. Inflorescence a panicle, 3–12 cm long. Primary branches 2–6 cm long. Spikelets with disarticulation above the glumes or at the base of the spikelet, 2–8 on a typical lowermost primary branch, elliptic or oblong or oblanceolate, 3.7–5.2 mm long, 1.1–1.8 mm wide. Glumes rounded on the back; lower glume ovate, 2–3.1 mm long, 5–7 nerved, glabrous; upper glume 3.6–5.1 mm long, elliptic or oblong or oblanceolate, 7 nerved, glabrous (adaxial apex hairy), muticous. Lower floret; sterile; lemma 3.7–5.2 mm long, 1.1–1.8 mm wide, membranous, lacking a hyaline area at the base, 7 nerved, with apex acuminate to acute; palea vestigial to absent. Upper floret; lemma 2.6–3.6 mm long, yellow to brown, indurate, elliptic to ovate; palea indurate, smooth. Anthers 1–1.5 mm long. Fig **.
Endemic; Widespread in tropical Australia. Tropical and subtropical sub-humid woodlands, arid and semi-arid low woodlands, and tropical sub-humid grasslands. Flowering Feb. to June. Map 1000.
W.A.: 6 miles SW Denham R. Sta, M.Lazarides 5047A (BRI, CANB). N.T.: Stuart Highway, 4 km NW of Edith R., B.K.Simon 3663, S.Cousins & H.Grosvenor (BRI, CANB, DNA, K);. Victoria Highway, 36 km E of Victoria R., B.K.Simon 3671 & E. Bartlet-Torr (BRI, CANB, DNA, K). Qld: Gilbert R., L.J.Brass 1717 (BRI, CANB); Chudleigh Park, C.E.Hubbard 7676 & C.W.Winders (BRI, K).
The range in morphological variation in this species is poorly understood and more collections are needed. It intergrades with Y. masjusculum on spikelet length and some specimens intergrade with Y. australiensis.
6. Yakirra nulla Lazarides & R.D Webster, Brunonia 7: 295 (1985)
T: c. 8 miles [12.9 km] NE of Adelaide R. township, N.T., Lazarides & Adams 262; holo: CANB; iso: K, L, NT.
Illustrations: D.Sharp & B.K.Simon, AusGrass (2002).
Annual or perennial (?). Flowering culms caespitose, 40–100 cm tall, 3–8 noded; nodes hairy or glabrous. Internodes longer than the associated leaf sheaths. Ligule 0.5–2 mm long. Leaf blades flat to conduplicate, 3–15 cm long, 2–10 mm wide. Inflorescence a panicle, 5–15 cm long. Primary branches 2.5–15 cm long. Spikelets with disarticulation above the glumes or at the base of the spikelet, 3–8 on a typical lowermost primary branch, elliptic to oblanceolate, 4.1–5.1 mm long, 1.1–1.6 mm wide. Glumes rounded on the back; lower glume 1.4–2.5 mm long, ovate, 3–5 nerved, glabrous; upper glume 4.1–5.1 mm long, elliptic to oblanceolate, 7 nerved, glabrous, muticous. Lower floret; sterile; lemma 4.1–5.1 mm long, 1.1–1.6 mm wide, membranous, 5–7 nerved, indumentum shorter than the spikelet, with apex acuminate to acute; palea vestigial, acute to with a rounded apex (or cleft). Upper floret; lemma 3–3.6 mm long (including stipe or rachilla), yellow, indurate, elliptic (excluding stipe); palea indurate, smooth (slightly muricate when immature). Lodicules absent or vestigial. Anthers 1.1–1.3 mm long.
Endemic; Restricted to a relatively small area E and SE of Darwin. Tropical and subtropical sub-humid woodlands and coastal grasslands. Flowering Feb. to May. Map 1001.
N.T.: Barra Base, Tiwi Islands, A.A.Mitchell 5646 (BRI, DNA); Howard Springs Forestry Station, B.K.Simon 3615 & M.H.Andrew (BRI, CANB, DNA); 15 km SE of Jabiru, R.W.Johnson 4706 (BRI, CANB, DNA, NSW); Koongarra, B.L.Rice 2875 (CANB); Arnhem Land, Magela Ck upper catchment, I.D.Cowie 5688 & K. Brennan (BRI, DNA).
Similar to the typical form of Y. pauciflora but easily distinguished by the absence of lateral appendages at the apex of the swollen rachilla.