Sarcozona praecox (F.Muell.) S.T.Blake

Taxon Naming

Sarcozona praecox (previously referenced here as Sarcozona bicarinata) is an erect to low-lying, succulent, hairless shrub.

Plant Height

It usually grows to a height of 30–50 cm (12–20 in).

Leaf Arrangement and Dimensions

Its leaves are arranged in opposite pairs, clasp the stem, and measure 40–100 mm (1.6–3.9 in) long and 4–7 mm (0.16–0.28 in) wide.

Leaf Texture and Shape

The leaves have a warty texture, are triangular in cross-section, with rounded sides and a flat top.

Flower Inflorescence and Size

Flowers are borne singly, measure 26–60 mm (1.0–2.4 in) wide, and are either sessile or held on a short stalk.

Flower Basal Bracts

At the base of each flower, two leaves are fused together and partially enclose the flower.

Sepal Structure

The sepal tube is 10–15 mm (0.39–0.59 in) long, and usually has four lobes 3.5–10 mm (0.14–0.39 in) long.

Floral Reproductive Parts

Between 20 and 80 pink, petal-like staminodes surround 20 to 150 white stamens and four styles.

Ovary Characteristics

The ovary is 4.5–9 mm (0.18–0.35 in) long and lacks ribs, which distinguishes it from S. bicarinata.

Flowering Period and Fruit

Flowering occurs mainly from August to November, and the fruit is a succulent capsule around 10 mm (0.39 in) in diameter.

Habitat and Distribution

This Sarcozona species grows near salt lakes, on granite rocks, and occasionally in woodland and mallee in arid areas of western New South Wales, north-western Victoria, south-western Western Australia, southern South Australia and southern Queensland.