Flora
Floodplains
Where floodplains are inundated for two to six months a year grasses and sedges such as spike rush occur. Clumps of freshwater mangroves (itchy tree), pandanus and paperbarks are found on slightly higher ground. Herbaceous swamp vegetation dominates areas covered by water for six to nine months a year. A variety of waterlilies, such as the blue, yellow and white snowflake, are commonly found in these areas.
Tall, dense stands of paperbark trees grow on the margins of Magela Creek, Yellow Water, Anbangbang billabong and other floodplains and permanent waterholes. The dominant species are the broad-leafed and weeping paperbarks. Freshwater mangroves and water pandanus are also common.
Common flora
- Blue lily Nymphaea violacea Barradjungga
Commonly seen along the margins of billabongs. Its violet-tipped white flowers appear between January and July. The seeds and stems can be eaten raw; the tuberous underground bulbs can be eaten after cooking. - Red lily Nelumbo nucifera Wurrmarninj
Grows in lowland wetlands. Its leaves are very large and stand erect above the water. Large, fragrant deep-pink flowers appear between March and November.
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