Wilsonia (plant) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Wilsonia (plant)
Wilsonia humilis
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
Clade:	Tracheophytes
Clade:	Angiosperms
Clade:	Eudicots
Clade:	Asterids
Order:	Solanales
Family:	Convolvulaceae
Tribe:	Cresseae
Genus:	Wilsonia R.Br.

Wilsonia is a group of small, tough plants that grow year after year. They are known as subshrubs, which means they are like small bushes. These plants belong to the Convolvulaceae family, which also includes morning glories!

What Are Wilsonia Plants?

Wilsonia plants are special because they are endemic to Australia. This means they are only found naturally in Australia and nowhere else in the world! They usually grow in saltmarsh areas along the coast. Sometimes, you can also find them in salty areas further inland.

Naming the Plant

The Wilsonia group was first officially described in 1810 by a famous botanist named Robert Brown. He wrote about it in his book Prodromus Florae Novae Hollandiae. The name Wilsonia was chosen to honor John Wilson, who wrote a book about British plants.

Different Types of Wilsonia

There are three main types, or species, of plants recognized in the Wilsonia group:

• Wilsonia backhousei – This one is often called the narrow-leaf wilsonia because of its thin leaves.
• Wilsonia humilis – This plant is known as the silky wilsonia, perhaps because of its soft texture.
• Wilsonia rotundifolia – You might hear this one called the round-leaf wilsonia, as its leaves are more rounded.