Astelia alpina
Astelia alpina R.Br.
Astelia alpina, described by Robert Brown in 1810, is a perennial herb found in alpine and subalpine regions of Tasmania and the Australian Alps. It is known by the common names pineapple grass, silver astelia, and perching lily. The species is characterized by its dense growth in mats, particularly in alpine bogs. Two subspecies are recognized: Astelia alpina var. novae hollandiae, found in New South Wales and Victoria, and Astelia alpina var. alpina, which is endemic to Tasmania. The two subspecies are visually similar.
Description
Astelia alpina is a member of the Asteliaceae family and is part of the genus Astelia. It is commonly found in alpine and subalpine habitats, where it forms dense mats. The plant is adapted to cold, wet environments and is a dominant species in alpine bogs. The two subspecies, Astelia alpina var. novae hollandiae and Astelia alpina var. alpina, are geographically distinct but share a similar appearance. The species was first described by Robert Brown and is widely distributed across New South Wales, Tasmania, and Victoria.
Distribution
New South Wales · Tasmania · Victoria
Synonyms
Funckia alpina
