Lambs Tail or Mulla Mulla? Wildflowers bloom in Western Qld
It’s one of the most eye-catching sights in the outback – but Mulla Mulla isn’t just for show.
These pinky-purple wildflowers (Ptilotus exaltatus) have formed lush “feathery” carpets across red clay soils in Western Queensland recently, taking advantage of recent rainfall to put on a stunning flora display.
Also known as Mulla Mulla or Lambs Tail, these wildflowers are a common sight near Blackall, Yaraka, Longreach and Stonehenge, especially after winter rain.
With a preference for pebbly Mitchell grass country or gidyea country, you’ll find P. exaltatus all over the arid southern parts of our region.
A phosphorus powerhouse
But lesser known is the fact that this wildflower naturally manages phosphorus in the soil, playing a vital role in Western Queensland’s complex pasture ecosystems.
Importantly, P. exaltatus has an extraordinary ability to absorb and store phosphorus at very high concentrations – far more than any other known plant – without suffering toxicity.
It draws phosphorus efficiently from both low- and high-phosphorus soils, cycling nutrients for the benefit of wildlife and livestock all across some of Australia’s toughest country.
