Mallea

Mallea is a genus of flowering plants in the family Malvaceae. It is native to Australia, where it is found in the arid and semi-arid regions of Western Australia and South Australia. The genus was first described by Ferdinand von Mueller in 1863.

Plants in the genus Mallea are typically small, shrubby trees or large shrubs, often growing to a height of 2 to 5 meters. They are characterized by their woody stems, leathery leaves, and showy flowers. The leaves are usually ovate or lanceolate in shape, and can be either smooth or slightly hairy. The flowers are typically solitary or borne in small clusters, and can be white, pink, or red in color. They have five petals and numerous stamens.

Mallea species are adapted to survive in harsh, dry conditions. They often have deep root systems to access water and can tolerate high temperatures and low rainfall. The plants are also fire-resistant, with some species able to resprout from underground lignotubers after a fire.

The genus Mallea is relatively small, with only a few recognized species. One notable species is Mallea glabra, commonly known as the slippery bark or brown mallet. This species is known for its smooth, peeling bark and is often found in mallee scrubland. Another species is Mallea leucoxylon, the white mallee, which has distinctive white bark.

These plants play a role in their native ecosystems, providing habitat and food for various insects and birds. While not widely cultivated, some Mallea species are occasionally used in landscaping for their drought tolerance and attractive flowers. Conservation status varies among species, with some being common and others facing threats due to habitat loss.