Desert pride facts for kids

"Desert pride" is a common name for two types of shrubs that grow naturally in Australia. These plants are part of a larger group called Eremophila, often known as "emu bushes" because emus sometimes eat their fruits. When people say "desert pride," they are usually talking about either Eremophila eriocalyx or Eremophila mackinlayi.

What Are These "Desert Pride" Plants?

The name "desert pride" fits these plants well because they are tough and beautiful, thriving in dry, desert-like areas of Australia. They add a splash of color and life to landscapes that might seem empty. Both plants are shrubs, meaning they are woody plants smaller than trees, with many branches.

Eremophila eriocalyx: The Woolly-Calyx Emu Bush

Eremophila eriocalyx is one of the plants known as "desert pride." It's a shrub that can grow up to 3 meters (about 10 feet) tall and 4 meters (about 13 feet) wide. Its branches are often covered in tiny, soft hairs.

Leaves and Flowers

The leaves of Eremophila eriocalyx are usually long and narrow, sometimes a bit sticky. The flowers are a beautiful purple or blue color and grow in groups. A special part of the flower, called the calyx (which protects the bud), is covered in woolly hairs. This is where the "eriocalyx" part of its scientific name comes from, as "erio" means woolly and "calyx" refers to this part of the flower. These flowers usually appear from May to October.

Where It Grows

You can find Eremophila eriocalyx growing in the drier parts of Western Australia, especially in areas like the Pilbara and Gascoyne regions. It likes to grow in sandy or stony soils, often on plains or along watercourses that are usually dry.

Eremophila mackinlayi: Mackinlay's Emu Bush

The other plant known as "desert pride" is Eremophila mackinlayi. This shrub is usually smaller than E. eriocalyx, growing up to 1.5 meters (about 5 feet) tall. It also has a more upright shape.

Leaves and Flowers

Eremophila mackinlayi has very narrow, almost needle-like leaves that are often covered in tiny, soft hairs. Its flowers are usually a lovely shade of pink or purple, sometimes even white. They have a bell-like shape and bloom mostly from July to October.

Where It Grows

Eremophila mackinlayi is also found in Western Australia, but its range is a bit different. It grows in the Murchison and Gascoyne regions, often in red sandy soils or on stony flats. It's well-adapted to the harsh, dry conditions of these areas.

Why Are These Plants Important?

Both Eremophila eriocalyx and Eremophila mackinlayi are important parts of the Australian desert ecosystem. They provide food and shelter for native animals, including insects and birds. Their ability to thrive in dry conditions makes them interesting to scientists who study how plants survive in tough environments. They also add natural beauty to the landscape.