Haemodorum

Haemodorum is a genus of flowering plants in the family Haemodoraceae. The genus comprises several species native to Australia, where they occur in heathlands, open forests, and coastal scrub, often on well-drained soils.

They are perennial herbaceous plants with slender, evergreen, sword-shaped leaves that arise from rhizomes and form clumps. The inflorescences are typically terminal or solitary spikes with bracts. Flowers are small to medium-sized, with colors ranging from red to orange or yellow; many species have a conspicuously reddish sap flowing from damaged tissue.

The genus includes species such as Haemodorum spicatum and Haemodorum sanguineum, which occupy a variety of habitats from coastal heath to dry woodland. They flower mainly in late winter to spring in southern hemisphere climates. Pollination is achieved by birds and insects.

Cultivation: Haemodorum species are grown as ornamental plants in suitable climates; they require sunny, well-drained sites and often tolerate drought but are sensitive to frost in cooler zones.

Etymology: The genus name is derived from Greek haima 'blood' and odous 'tooth', referencing the red sap found in some species.