Flora
Flora
The Nullarbor is a flat limestone plain with the Land around Head of Bight consisting mostly of mallee open scrublands. Prominent vegetation includes red mallee (Eucalyptus socialis), and or white mallee (E. gracilis) with scatterings of boree (Melaleuca pauperiflora).
Saltbush and Bluebush are also a familiar sight over the dry inland area. Saltbush is a sprawling grey-blue shrub which can grow to 3 metres high and 5 metres wide.
It has been noted that in the past indigenous Australians collected the minute Saltbush seeds to grind and roast for damper. Bluebush is similar to saltbush. It is believed to live up to 80 years and is highly drought resistant. Low bluebush forms an important fodder for sheep and cattle.
The Native Apricot or Pittosporum phylliraeoides can be found, but it is not very common. You may also come across the Sturt Desert Pea (Swainsona Formosa) which is the South Australian floral emblem. The Sturt Desert Pea is a protected species and must not be collected on private land without the written consent of the owner. Collection on Crown land is illegal without a permit.
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