Bears ear facts for kids
Cymbonotus lawsonianus, often called bears ear, is a small plant from the daisy family. It grows in southeastern Australia. This plant is one of only three types in its group, called Cymbonotus. It was named after a famous explorer, William Lawson.
Quick facts for kids Bears ear |
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| Near Goulburn | |
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Cymbonotus
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C. lawsonianus
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| Cymbonotus lawsonianus Gaudich.
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Contents
What is Bears Ear?
Bears ear is a plant that lives for more than two years, meaning it's a perennial. It can grow up to 30 cm (12 in) tall. Its leaves grow in a circle close to the ground, like a rosette.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of the bears ear plant can be different shapes. They might be oval, spear-shaped, or ellipse-shaped. They usually measure from 2 to 25 cm (0.8–10 in) long. The edges of the leaves can be smooth or have small teeth.
The plant produces bright yellow flowers. These flowers bloom from autumn to spring, usually between March and October. Tiny insects help to pollinate these flowers. After the flowers, small black seeds appear in early spring, around September and October.
Where Does Bears Ear Grow?
You can find bears ear in many parts of southeastern Australia. It grows from Toowoomba and the Darling Downs in southern Queensland. It also spreads through all of New South Wales. You can see it in northern Victoria, southeastern South Australia, and even Tasmania.
Preferred Habitats
This plant is quite tough and can grow in different types of soil. It likes both clay and sandstone soils, as well as other mixed soils called loams. Bears ear often grows in forests or open woodlands. You might even spot it in parks and gardens!
Bears Ear in Your Garden
Bears ear is a great plant for home gardens. It can adapt to many soil types. However, it does not like to sit in too much water. So, make sure the soil drains well. It's also a good choice for a rockery garden.
Traditional Uses
Long ago, early settlers found a special use for bears ear. They would mix parts of the plant with lard, which is a type of animal fat. This mixture was then used as a salve to help heal wounds.
