Goodenia decurrens: There are 169
species of Goodenia native to Australia and one species is found in New
Guinea and Southeast Asia. The number of species surprised us. Few if any are
in general cultivation. This is a pity because they are usually hardy,
cheerful plants with bright yellow flowers. A few Goodenias have blue or
pinkish-mauve flowers. We have two yellow flowered species occurring naturally
on Yallaroo.
We collected cuttings of Goodenia decurrens on a
plant-collecting trip to the Hunter Valley, north of Sydney. As with most
Goodenias the cuttings struck readily and the resulting plants presented us
with a floral extravaganza, which lasts for many months.
Goodenia decurrens is a small erect shrub with multiple stems
(rather like a miniature mallee). The leaves are lanceolate with toothed
margins. The large, bright yellow flowers develop along the stems. It is a
most attractive small shrub and attracts comment from visitors to Yallaroo. We
have it growing in full sun on well-drained sites. The species will also grow
in semi-shade. One author wrote: “Not popular in cultivation but has
potential for wider use with showy flowers”. We totally agree. Removing
stems as the flowers fade will encourage new growth. Goodenia decurrens
is a native of NSW and occurs on the Central Coast, Central tablelands and
Western Slopes. See: Horticultural Surprises.