Twining finger-flower

Scientific name: Cheiranthera volubilis      

National status (EPBC Act 1999): Vulnerable

South Australian status: (NPW Act 1972): Vulnerable

Description:

Weak twining perennial shrub with long linear, bright green leaves. Large blue to purple-tinged flowers at the top of the stems, with prominent yellow anthers arranged like fingers of a hand. Flowering between October and March.

Distribution:

Endemic to Kangaroo Island. Grows in mallee woodland and heath on ironstone soils, mainly in the western and central parts of the island.

Specific threats:

Threats to Cheiranthera volubilis include habitat disturbance from road maintenance and fire prevention works, inappropriate fire regimes (too frequent fires), soil-borne disease (Phytophthora cinnamomi), weed invasion from Tasmanian blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus) wildlings and climate change.