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PLANT LIST
PARRAMATTA PARK
by Robert V J Varman
The following list was established up to about March 1996, commissioned by the Parramatta Park Trust. The results of subsequent surveys, about 100 species, have not yet been added to this list. The names are backed up with pressed specimens which are held at the office of the Parramatta Park Trust, Parramatta Park, Parramatta (near Sydney). Some additional comments have been made. 10 February 1997.
INTRODUCTION
This list of plants (mostly weeds) comprises the first part of an ongoing project which is to record the plants growing within Parramatta Park. The project is ongoing because many plants are seasonal; flowering is seasonal (making plant identification difficult). The Park is also very large and it would be impossible to cover every area in detail within a short period of time: a list of plants was required because of a proposed weed control/native regeneration project.. A Section 60 application (Heritage Act 1977 and amendments) will be required before the weed management program gets under way.
The natives, weeds and introduced plants of Parramatta Park are in fact an important part of Australia's heritage, though largely unrecognized at present. Parramatta was the site of the first truly successful grain and vegetable production (1789/1790) and hence could be said to be the Motherland of Australian weeds. Large parts of the Park have remained rural in character to this day and there is a good chance of continuity of the various escaped species, after all, about one hundred native species have held on since 1789.
Of importance are also the native remnants, largely the prickly, fast seeding, deep rooted or species which can survive very poor soil and limited water; these have escaped extermination despite development, planting and grazing. The aquatic and semi-aquatic plants seem to have fared better but have been marginalized to a few restricted areas along the Domain Creek and The Island.
A distinction has been made between native plants indigenous to the park and those introduced because it is important that the genetic integrity of the pre-European settlement remnants be acknowledged and promoted: such remnants should not be boosted by nursery plants because, though of the same species, there are minor variations within the same species. The most 'successful' nursery native plantings in recent years may be found along the Stadium side of the river bank and to the south -west side of the Wisteria Gardens.
The plant groups are listed as follows:
---Ferns
---Grasses
---Plants and shrubs
---Indigenous plants
---Aquatic and semi-aquatic plants
Specimens collected were labeled according to site location and date. The specimens have been mounted in clear plastic, loose leaf folders, in the same way as listed in this report. New specimens may be inserted, as they are found. The specimens are merely intended as a back-up to the list, a proof that they actually exist in the Park. Additions and corrections will be made as the year (1996) progresses.
A start had to be made on the fauna of Parramatta Park. The start is modest, but as with the flora, these may be added to as new findings are located. Distribution maps are located at the end of the plant lists.
CONVENTIONS
--Alphabetical listing according to genus.
--Specimens collected for the majority of plants listed so that the listing can be referenced to an actual sample as 'proof'. As some specimens may not be sufficient to determine difficult distinctions, each specimen is provided with a map indicating location and date of collection.
--Common names are included after the botanical name. The spelling of a common name is given as found in the various sources used (and these do vary in convention).
--Countries or areas of origin are provided where possible because they may reflect the trading habits of earlier days. The earliest weeds originated from England, South America and South Africa. North American weeds, for example, are generally later in origin, reflecting the greater trade contacts during and after the Gold Rush days.
--Comments are marked '*', providing what information is known about a plant, for example: distribution, rarity, warnings and, if known, introduction dates (mainly applicable to trees).
--Distinctions have been made between endemic natives and natives introduced to the Park.
--The following words beginning with a capital letter have the following specific meanings: River = Parramatta River; Park = Parramatta Park.
--To distinguish the two creeks, Domain Creek indicates the west creek in the Park; Rose Hill Creek indicates the creek running through the Murray Gardens to The Island.
--The Island and The Crescent are used to indicate specific places within the Park, names which date back to the 1790s. See plan.
--The mounted specimens should be regarded as appendices of this report.
--This report does not include the Golf Club area or the north side of the River unless otherwise indicated in the text.
Drawing the line for this report was extremely difficult because there were many specimens awaiting identification and promising areas of the Park still to be reviewed. However, as this is part of a quarterly survey, so that the seasons can be covered, outstanding material will be included in the next update.
Weed management and bush regeneration is to be planned and conducted by professionals from one of the leading heritage bodies of the State after approval is obtained under the Heritage Act of New South Wales.
DISCUSSION OF SIGNIFICANCE
Parramatta's initial settlement was of an agrarian nature, its origin is to be found within the confines of the present Park boundaries. The east slope of Rose Hill, site of Old Government House, and flats below, were probably the first areas to be cleared, along with the land around Dodd's hut and sheds, directly across the River. The first successful crops were grown in the area and farming land was extended from the Park into what is now the City of Parramatta.
Seed such as wheat, barley and maize was purchased at the Cape of Good Hope and Rio de Janeiro. Plants and seed of all sorts also came via these areas because of the greater similarity in climates to that of New South Wales. European plants that did well at the Cape and Rio were supposed to do well in New South Wales also. Many European plants, outside the constraints of severe winters of snow, ice and frost, outside the constraints of natural pests, thrived in the warmer climates to the degree that they became pests well before 1788. Seeds and potted plants (soil and humus) purchased at the Cape and Rio brought with it a large cargo of South American, South African and European weeds, insect pests, land mollusca etc.
Rio de Janeiro and the Cape of Good Hope had become thriving international trading centres and as such were exporters and importers of plants and animals. Rio represented tropical South America and the West Indies in terms of plant and animal life. The Cape, though having some indigenous produce, represented Dutch and English interests and had produce which also reflected India, China and the Netherlands East Indies (as far as would thrive in a fairly arid climate).
When we read of the glowing reports of crop and vegetable successes at Parramatta during the founding years, 1789-1790, we can only guess at the type of weeds first released. By 1803 the plants successfully introduced in New South Wales and Norfolk Island could be described as international, as evidenced from a list compiled of all introduced useful and ornamental plants. Weeds were not listed but a vegetable, Pursline (Portulaca oleracea) was noted as having 'become a Common Weed': a weed still very common in the Park to this day.
The present weeds at Parramatta Park reflect the early international association, in particular the predominance of South American/ West Indies weeds and those of Europe and South Africa. The same could now be said for all of Sydney and the warmer and wetter parts of Australia.
Parramatta Park and Parramatta in general, could be said to be the Australian Garden of Eden, a genesis, of the weeds as well as of grain crops and vegetables. The crops have long gone but the weeds and some terrestrial mollusca remain as testimony of former plant diversity and experimentation.
The survival of a minimum of one hundred indigenous plants, grouped in areas around the Park, provides proof of a continuum of plant life in the Park, unbroken since 1788. This indicates that weeds released in those early years are just as likely to have survived as well or even more so.
The survival of indigenous species, weeds, ornamental plantings relates to the historical development of the Park and provides a living dimension to the built environment. No other site in Australia covers virtually the entire period of European settlement in such a range of diverse environments : aquatic, endemic native, wastelands, grasslands, cultivated, built etc. Each of such environments contributing to our knowledge of early settlement in general and the site specifically, not covered in the documentation.
A number of locally rare indigenous survivals were noted, in particular a fresh water plant, Potamogeton ochreatus (Blunt Pondweed), only one other population noted out of about 65 surveys by the Royal Botanic Gardens covering the Western Sydney district (Hawkesbury to Campbelltown, Parramatta to Penrith). The research is ongoing but some further surprises are expected in regard to the indigenous grasses and herbs.
F E R N S
INTRODUCTION
Ferns are not at all common at Parramatta Park, reflecting fairly harsh conditions exacerbated by nearly two hundred years of cultivation, grazing and development. Of the four or five species found so far, only two or three are indigenous to the Park (having a continuous presence in the park from pre-settlement days).
Pits excavated at the Dairy Cottage are attracting fern spores of, as yet, two indeterminable species. Some of the following species need review when they become fertile.
LIST OF FERNS
Cheilanthes lasiophylla (Woolly Cloak Fern) Native
*River west bank adjacent to the Wistaria Gardens. Bank, upper north end of The Crescent. Bank along railway boundary fence (mid portion)? Being associated with hardy native plants, this fern is a marker of remnant native populations. The population next to the Wistaria Gardens is often very dry, resulting in shrivelled foliage: the apparently dead fronds unfurl after rain.
Culcita dubia (Common Ground Fern) Native
*One specimen found along the River at the north end of The Crescent. Check.
Cyathea cooperi (Cooper's, or Scaly, Tree Fern) Native: self-spored from outside the Park.
* Macquarie culvert, Murray Gardens. Probably from a spore from a row growing on the east side of the R.S.L. Bowling Club.
Nephrolepsis cordifolia (Herringbone Fern). Introduced.
* Garden at the West Gatehouse. Government House.
Pteridium esculentum (Bracken)
Native but may have been introduced to the Park within recent years (late 1980s-early 1990s) as part of a native planting program on the flat, north end, west side of the Domain Creek, adjacent to the Wistaria Gardens. Plants procured from a nursery.
* Only found next to the Wistaria Gardens. Check exact species.
Note: 10 February 1997. It is suspected that the fern was not introduced during the above planting period. I am monitoring the spread of the fern in that location.
Note: Another indigenous fern was found in the remnant native area a little further south of the above site (west bank of creek). Only one plant.
GRASSES
INCLUDING RUSHES AND SEDGES
INTRODUCTION
Grasses are best identified when in seed, thus will require searching over all the seasons of the year for the broad picture. Grasses are difficult to identify and several collected specimens will require further research.
The grasslands of the Park have been underrated but in fact are a major feature of the Park's flora. Recent introduced species such as Kikuyu Grass are a threat to the diversity found in the Park. Continual mowing and clearing are reducing the diversity at a rapid pace in favour of a few aggressive introduced species.
LIST
Aristida personata (Wire Grass) Native
*Only in native remnant areas.
Aristida sp (Wire Grass) Native
*Only in native remnant areas.
Avena barbata (Wild Oat, Bearded Oat) Mediterranean
*Widespread, fairly common.
Axonopus affinis (Narrowleaf Carpetgrass) America
*Widespread, very common and aggressive.
Bromus catharticus (Prairie Grass) America
*Widespread.
Carex fascicularis (Tassel Sedge) Native
*Not common. Specimen found at the Dairy Precinct.
Carex inversa (Knob Sedge) Native
*Fairly widespread.
Chloris virgata (Feathertop Rhodesgrass) Tropical America
*Common, fairly widespread.
Cynodon dactylon (Bermuda Grass, Couch) Cosmopolitan
*All areas of the Park. Several of the recognized forms of this species may be found. This is the dominant introduced grass in the older grasslands of the Park.
Cyperus brevifolius (Mullumbimby Couch) Probably native.
*Fairly common. Has two close relatives.
Cyperus congestus (Sedge) Cosmopolitan
*Fairly common along the two creeks and River.
Cyperus difformis(Dirty Dora, Rice Sedge) Tropical Asia.
*Widespread and common.
Cyperus eragrostis (Umbrella Sedge) America
*Common along the two creeks, River and elsewhere.
Cyperus rotundus ssp rotundus (Nutgrass) Cosmopolitan
*Common where cultivation takes place. On the increase at the Dairy Precinct. A weed to be discouraged.
Cyperus sanguinolentus (No common name?) Native
*Widespread in moist areas.
Cyperus sesquiflorus (No common name) Native?
Fairly uncommon?
Danthonia longifolia (Long Leaf Wallaby Grass) Native
*Uncommon. This identification needs confirming because it is very rare in the Western Sydney district. Possible alternative D. linkii var linkii.
Danthonia tenuior (Wallaby Grass) Native.
*Fairly uncommon, restricted to native remnant areas.
Dichelachne crinita-----check. (Long-hair Plumegrass) Native
*Uncommon?
Digitaria Sanguinalis (Crabgrass) Cosmopolitan
*Widespread, common. An aggressive weed in cultivated areas of the Park, particularly at the Dairy Precinct.
Echinochloa crus-galli (Barnyard Grass) Europe and India
*Scattered.
Echinopogon ovatus (Forest Hedgehog Grass) Native
*Sporadic in native remnant areas.
Eleusine indica (Crow's Foot Grass) Cosmopolitan
Fairly common?
Eleusine tristachya (Crow's Foot Grass) Cosmopolitan
*Fairly common and widespread.
Ehrharta erecta (Panic, Velt Grass) South Africa
*Common around the Park, particularly in cultivated gardens. Probably a fairly recent introduction (about 30 years?). Often to be found together with potted plants.
Hordeum leporinum (Barley Grass) Mediterranean
*Scattered about the Park.
Juncus aridicola (Rush) Native
*Probably not common. May have been planted with other natives at the north end of Domain Creek. This native does not belong to the Sydney region.
Juncus articulatus (Jointed Rush) Europe
*Found along the creeks.
Juncus usitatus (Common Rush) Native
*Common in the Park. Check J. Sarophorus.
Lolium perenne (Ryegrass, Perennial Ryegrass) Mediterranean
*Sporadic.
Lolium rigidum (Wimmera Ryegrass, Annual Ryegrass) Mediterranean
*The Crescent, sporadic elsewhere.
Paspalum dilatatum (Paspalum) South America
*Widespread and very common.
Paspalum paspalodes (Water Couch) Native
*Primarily found next to and in water: the two creeks, along the edges of the River, and The Island.
Paspalum urvillei (Vasey Grass) South America
*Scattered plants along the River.
Pennisetum clandestinum (Kikuyu Grass) East Africa
*In just about every part of the Park. Crowds out almost every other species and a danger to the character of the Park. Takes over along the creeks and the River edges. This grass must be controlled!
Phalaris aquatica (Phalaris) Mediterranean
*Requires further work.
Poa annua (Winter Grass, Annual Poa) Europe
*Very common and widespread.
Polypogon monspeliensis (Annual Beardgrass) Europe and Asia
*Sporadic.
Rhynchellytrum repens (Natal Red Grass) South Africa
*Specimens along the Railway boundary fence.
Scirpus validus (River Clubrush) Native but found in the USA etc.
*Found along the River. There may be two types involved.
Searia geniculata var pauciseta (Slender Pigeon Grass) Central and South America
*Fairly common. The Island to the culvert, north of the Murray Gardens.
Sorghum halepense----check (Johnson Grass) Mediterranean
*Principally found along the River between the north boundary and in line with the Dairy Precinct.
Sporobolus africanus (Parramatta Grass) South Africa
*Fairly common and is also a feature of the older grasslands of the Park. Large spiked specimens along the River at the north end.
Sporobolus creber (Slender Rat's Tail Grass) Native
*Fairly uncommon.
Stenotaphrum secundatum (Buffalo Grass) Tropical America and Africa.
*Scattered throughout the Park.
Themeda australis (Kangaroo Grass) Native
*Uncommon. Specimens along the Railway boundary fence.
Themeda quadrivalvis (Grader grass) India
*Uncommon. Grows with native grasses.
Typha orientalis (Cumbungi) *Native/Cosmopolitan. Native
*Uncommon. Grows in native remnant areas. North end of the River, upper west bank etc.
PLANTS AND SHRUBS
(WEED SPECIES)
INTRODUCTION
Native weeds are listed in the Native section. A separate section will be created later in the year (1996) to cover old-established garden plants. Some recently 'escaped' plants are also included here.
LIST
Acanthus spinosissimus (Mountain Thistle) Mediterranean
*One large sprawling plant to the west of the north end of River footbridge.
Ageratina adenophora (Crofton Weed) Mexico
*Found scattered in moist areas.
Amaranthus
*Differential flowering periods have made it difficult to distinguish. The larger, broad leaf variety (which some collect as a vegetable in the Park) began to produce spikes early in February, the common smaller variety began to produce spikes by November at least. Amaranthus will be updated later in the year.
Amaranthus retroflexus (Redroot Amaranth) Tropical America/cosmopolitan
*Widely distributed with strong populations at the Dairy Precinct and to the area eastward between the River and the road, upper bank.
Amaranthus viridus (Green Amaranth) Cosmopolitan
*Wide distribution in the Park, common.
Ammi majus (Bishop's Weed) Europe, North Africa and Asia
*Uncommon. Solitary example flowering at the Dairy Precinct, February 1996 (later mown down).
Anagallis arvensis (Pimpernel, Scarlet Pimpernel) Cosmopolitan
*These are divided into blue and orange flowering varieties. Scarlet specimen.
Anredera cordifolia (Madeira Vine) South America
*Found all over the Park but concentrations to be found around Old Government House and the Dairy Precinct.
Apium leptophyllum (Slender Celery) America
*Widespread and common.
Araujia hortorum (Moth Plant, Moth Vine) South America
*Common along Domain Creek and along the ridge bank from the Dairy Precinct. to The Crescent. Tends to smother small trees and shrubs. Beautiful flower display and interesting, large seed pods.
Arctotheca calendula (Capeweed) South Africa
*Widespread?
Asparagus densiflorus (Fern Asparagus) South Africa
*Seems recently introduced, a number of small plants noticed in and around the north-west section of the Park.
Aster novi-belgii----check (New York Aster) North America, naturalised in parts of Europe.
*Distribution requires further work.
Aster subulatus (Bushy Starwart, Wild Aster) North America
*Common in most areas.
Bidens pilosa (Cobbler's Pegs, Pegweed, Beggar's Ticks, Farmer's Friend)
America
*The common variety. Found all over the park with sporadic concentrations such as to the south of the Dairy Precinct. Plague proportions at certain times of the year (Spring, Summer).
Bidens subalternans (Cobbler's Pegs) America
*Widespread but not as vigorous as B. pilosa. Frilly, soft leaves. Common in and around the Dairy Precinct.
Brassica sp (Wild Turnip) Europe
*Widespread and fairly common.
Brassica sp
* Probably several species in the Park: further field work required over the seasons.
See Aquatic section.
Canna indica (Indian Shot) West Indies
*Dairy Precinct planting. Naturalised populations: river area east of the Dairy Precinct; Domain Creek and upper and lower Rose Hill Creek.
Canna X generalis (Indian Shot hybrid) West Indies
*Check, as there are several varieties.
Capsella bursapastoris (Shepherd's Purse) Europe
*Widespread.
Cardiospermum grandiflorum (Balloon Vine) Tropical Asia, Africa and/or America.
*Common along the creeks, River and shady overgrown areas.
Carduus nutans ssp nutans (Nodding Thistle) Europe and Asia
*Sporadic throughout the Park.
Cassia floribunda (Smooth Cassia, Arsenic Bush)
*Examples scattered about the Park. Quite a number along the Domain Creek.
Cassia multijuga (Calceolaria Shower Tree--Autumn flowering) Brazil
*Sporadic. Population at the Dairy Precinct, mainly within the Depot yard. A population to the west side of the George Street Gatehouse but appears deliberately planted. This could be the tree shown in the foreground of Brambila's 1793 view of Parramatta.
(Check C. fistula: Indian Laburnum, Pudding Pipe Tree--Summer flowering).
Centaurium erythraea (Common Centaury, Pink Stars) Europe
*Fairly widespread.
Cerastium glomeratum (Mouse Ear Chickweed) Cosmopolitan
*Common.
Cestrum parqui (Green Poison Berry, Green Cestrum) Central and South America
*Widespread but very common to the east of the Dairy Precinct.
Chenopodium album (Fat Hen, White Goosefoot) Europe and Asia---Cosmopolitan
*Widespread.
Conza albida (Tall Fleabane) South(?) America
*Very common and widespread. Check for other Conza species.
Crepsis capillaris (Smooth Hawkesbeard) Europe
*Fairly common in moist areas.
Crocosmia X crocosmiiflora (Crocosmia) South African hybrid.
*Recent escape probably from the Wistaria Gardens.
Datura stramonium (Thornapple, Devil's Apple) Probably cosmopolitan
*One specimen found at the south boundary of the Dairy Precinct. Used in medicine but is extremely poisonous.
Datura suaveolens (Angel's Trumpets) India
*Macquarie Street Gatehouse. The plant has been reduced in recent years.
Erodium cicutarium (Blue Crowfoot) Cosmopolitan
*Uncommon. First specimen found along Railway fence. E. crinitum is a native.
Erythrina crista-galli (Cockscomb Coral) Africa
*Largely confined to Domain Creek where it dominates and has become a nuisance and spreading rapidly. This is an aggressive environment-altering species. The shade it provides has encouraged some native aquatic species and so must be thinned out gradually.
Euphorbia peplus (Petty Spurge) Europe
*Widespread and common.
Foeniculum vulgare (Fennel) Europe
*Common. Dispersed throughout the Park.
Fumaria carpreolata (White Flowered Fumatory) Europe
*Widespread.
Galinsoga parviflora (Potatoweed, Galinsoga) South America
*Widespread and very common.
Galium aparine (Rough Corn Bedstraw, Cleavers) Europe
*Fairly common along the two creeks.
Galium tricornatum (Rough Corn Bedstraw, Cleavers) Europe
*Fairly common along the Domain Creek. (Later Note: I have doubt about the distinction of these two species. Further work required). February 10, 1997.
Genista monspessulana (Cape Broom, Montpellier Broom) Mediterranean
*Scattered examples.
Gnaphalium coarctatum (Spiked Cudweed) America
*Widespread and common. Check for G. americanum.
Gomphocarpus fruticosus (Narrow Leaf Cotton Bush) South Africa
*Found near the Wisteria Gardens, west side of creek. Check again--may be incorrect.
Heliotropium amplexicaule (Blue Heliotrope) Cosmopolitan?
*Not common. Above road below the Dairy Precinct; north end of The Crescent . As they seem to prefer grassy areas, they do not prosper because of mowing. Have established a few along the path on the east side of the Dairy Precinct.
Hydrocotyle bonariensis (Pennywort) South America
*Common along parts of the River.
Hydrocotyle laxiflora *Check
Hypochoeris radicata (Catsear, Flatweed) Europe and North America
*Widespread, common. Check for H. glabra (leaves only 50mm or less, stout version); and Leontodon thraxacoides (solitary terminal flower).
Impatiens wallerana (sultanii?) (Impatiens) Africa?
*Naturalised along the length of Rose Hill Creek and the north end of Domain Creek.
Lactuca serriola (Prickly Lettuce) Europe
*Widespread but not common. Actually a close relative of the lettuce.
Lantana camera (Lantana) Central and South America
*Dense stands to the north of Old Government House and the upper bank of The Crescent. Scattered examples along the creeks. Several varieties: pink, red, orange and white.
NOTE: These stands should be removed very gradually as they protect several forms of flora and fauna. Blue tongue lizards north and north-east of Old Government House and native flora and insect life along the upper part of the Crescent. The stands form very effective barriers against human incursions and do add to the moisture of the soil.
Lantana montevidensis---naturalised form. (Creeping Lantana) South America
*North of the north boundary fence of Old Government House.
Lepidium africanum (Common Peppercress) South Africa
*Fairly widespread.
Lepidium bonariense (Peppercress) South Africa
*Murray Gardens, The Crescent along the River (etc?).
Leptomeria acida (Native Currant) Native
*Specimens noted between the road and River, The Crescent, north end.
Lobularia maritima (Sweet Alice, Sweet Alyssum)
*Garden escape. Specimens noted at the old Depot, Dairy Precinct and the north end of Domain Creek, near the Wistaria Gardens.
Lonicera japonica (Japanese Honeysuckle) Japan
*One large group on the east side of Domain Creek, near the Wistaria Gardens. There is little doubt that the plant came with the tons of rubble dumped in this area over the years.
Lotus corniculatus (Bird's-foot Trefoil) Europe
*Widespread, especially near water but not easily seen.
Ludwigia peploides ssp Montevidensis~~~~~~~~~~~ (Water Primrose) Uruguay
*Along the two creeks and River.
Macfayena ungis-cati (Cat's Claw Creeper) America
*A fairly recent garden escape. One large tangle at Old Government House, on the north side of the north fence. A large specimen has taken over a couple of small trees growing along the east side of the road below the Dairy Precinct.
Malva parviflora (Marsh Mallow, Smallflower Mallow) Mediterranean
*Widespread, common.
Medicago arabica (Spotted Medic) Europe and West Asia
*Widespread over the Park.
Melilotis indica (Sweet Melilot) Mediterranean
*Scattered throughout the Park.
Modiola caroliniana (Red Flower Mallow, Carolina Mallow) South America
*Common.
Nicandra physalodes (Apple of Peru) South America
*Only one specimen noticed near the road mid way between the Bath House and Domain Creek. Photograph taken and seeds collected. Unfortunately cut down (mowing) during the clean-up for Australia Day (1996).
Nothoscordum inodorum (Onion Weed) North America
*This weed is making inroads all over the Park, especially along the ridge toward the Dairy Precinct. There are several groups at the Precinct. Spreads by seed and bulb. This weed is almost impossible to eradicate.
Opuntia stricta (Common Prickly Pear) America
*Naturalised on the upper west bank, north end of the River, near the Wistaria Gardens. May have been in the vicinity for some time. Not a pest, under the circumstances, but should be relocated as it grows in a remnant native area.
Oxalis corniculata (Yellow Wood Sorrel) Possibly, South America
*Common.
Oxalis pes-capre (Soursob) South Africa
*Found only in front lawn of the Ranger's Cottage (Spring) but may well exist elsewhere.
Parietaria judaica (Pellitory of the Wall) Europe.
*Uncommon
Pastinaca sativa (Parsnip) Europe
*Fairly common along the two creeks and the River. Check for Trachymene ochracea (Wild Parsnip).
Phytolacca octandra (Inkweed) Tropical America
*Fairly common.
Plantago lanceolata (Ribwort, Common Plantain) Europe and Asia
*Common.
Plantago major (Greater Plantain) Europe and Asia
*Found along the creeks and River.
Polycarpon tetraphyllum (Four Leaf All Seed) Europe
*Very common most areas.
Polygonum arenastrum (Sandwire Weed) Cosmopolitan
*Widespread.
Portulaca oleracea (Purslane, Pigweed) Cosmopolitan
*Mentioned in the 1803 NSW list of introduced plants as having become a weed in the Colony, indicating that it was introduced as a vegetable. Common around the Dairy Precinct and elsewhere in the Park.
Richardia stellaris (Field Madder) Brazil
*Found at the south-west corner of the Dairy Precinct Depot building, the Railway boundary, west domain grasslands etc.
Ricinus communis (Caster Oil Plant) Asia.....
*Examples mostly confined to both sides of the River. A few specimens at the north end of Domain Creek. This weed should be reduced to one or two specimens
Rubus fruticosus (Blackberry) Europe
*Both creeks and some isolated areas. The population reduced over the last ten years. Used to be present at the Dairy Precinct.
Rumex brownii (Swamp Dock) Native
* Along the creeks and river.
Rumex conglomeratus (Clustered Dock) Europe and Asia(?)
*Fairly common.
Rumex crispus (Curled Dock) Europe and Africa
*Common.
Rumex pulcher (Fiddle Dock) Europe and temperate Asia
*Fairly common near water.
Senecio madagascariensis (Fireweed) Europe
*Restricted distribution. Populations at the Murray Gardens and The Island. Check Sigesbeckia orientalis.
Senecio mikanioides *Check.
Senecio pterophorus (Fireweed?) Europe
*Restricted. Healthy population concentration on the west side of the creek, Murray Gardens.
Senecio quadridentatus (Cotton Fireweed) Native
*With other natives scattered along the mid north side of the railway boundary fence.
Sida rhombifolium (Common Sida, Paddy's Lucerne) Cosmopolitan
*Very common and undesirable, as it aggressively penetrates disturbed native remnant areas.
Silybum marianum (Variegated Thistle) Europe and Northern Africa
*Fairly uncommon.
Sisymbrium officinale (Hedge Mustard) Europe
*Widespread. It is noted for tainting milk. Several found at the Dairy Precinct.
Solanum mauritanum (Wild Tobacco) South America
*Not common: Near the River, east of the Dairy Precinct; and Domain Creek, west side, adjacent to Wistaria Gardens. Already a weed on Norfolk Island by the 1790s. A useful weed to create temporary shade conditions where more vigorous trees and shrubs have been removed or thinned out.
Solanum nigrum (Blackberry Nightshade) Cosmopolitan
*Widespread and common.
Solanum pseudocapsicum (Madeira Winter Cherry, Jerusalem Cherry) America
* One specimen found along Rose Hill creek, between The Island and the Culvert. Probably a recent introduction.
Solanum sp., similar to S. capsicoides # (No common name?) ?
*Widespread on both sides of the River. Although attractive (leaf, flower and red berry) the spines are very unpleasant. Can create thickets.
Soliva anthemifolia (Dwarf Jojo, Onehunga) South America?
*Common.
Soliva pterosperma (Bindii) South America
*Widespread, common.
Sonchus asper---------check S. oleraceus (Prickly Sowthistle)
*Widespread.
Stachys arvensis (Stagger Weed, Hedge Nettle, Mint Weed) Europe
*Murray Gardens, along the creek. Check.
Stellaria media (Chickweed) Europe
*Common.
Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion) Europe
*Widespread and common.
Tradescantia albiflora (Wandering Jew) South America
*Scattered large populations.
Trifolium arvense (Hares Foot clover; Pussy Clover) Europe, North Africa, Western Asia
*Not common. Railway boundary fence etc.
Trifolium repens (White Clover) Cosmopolitan.
*Very common in most areas.
Verbascum virgatum (Twiggy Yellow Mullein) Europe
*So far seen only along the Railway cutting.
Verbena bonariensis (Purple Top) South America
*Widespread, fairly common.
Verbena officinalis (Common Verbena, Common Vervain) Central America
*Widespread, fairly common.
Veronica arvensis (Wall Speedwell) Europe and western Asia
*Common.
Vicia sativa ssp sativa (Common Vitch, Tares) Europe
*Fairly widespread. May be more than one Vicia sp.
Vinca major (Blue Periwinkle) Mediterranean
*Two small shoots survive on the east side of the Dairy Cottage (survived clearing in 1993 or before). A large population grows in the brick structure in the Dairy Precinct, Depot Yard. Garden escape.
Wistaria sinensis (Wistaria) Asia and North America
*Murray Gardens, 1950s origin?; Dairy Cottage, two remnants from a plant that was large in the 1920s; Wistaria Garden, date?
Xanthium occidentale (Noogoora Burr) America
*Common near the two creeks, River etc. Other Xanthium species may be involved.
NATIVE PLANTS INDIGENOUS TO PARRAMATTA PARK
INTRODUCTION
The plants that have survived two hundred years of European settlement at Parramatta Park are all very hardy. The plants had to survive repeated clearing, burning, grazing, agriculture and eventual competition by aggressive exotic weeds. The greatest damage has occurred within the last few decades because of the ease of modern machinery: earth moving equipment, trucks able to dump huge loads of earth and building fill; huge lawnmowers and slashers etc. With the advent of mechanical lawn mowing, remnant open bushland was virtually annihilated--a process (in the final stage) which continues to this day, not only at Parramatta Park but all urban areas across the Nation.
Plants survived along banks of the creeks and roadsides, despite occasional clearing, because they had one or more of the following characteristics: weed-like seed dispersal; fruits attractive to birds and animals (redeposited near trees); roots with tubers or bulbs; tough fibrous roots etc. Trees fared better but clearing and replacement with nursery natives and exotics are still taking their toll. Because of the ever increasing lawns, most are no longer able to propegate by seed.
Aquatic or semi-aquatic natives have also fared better but have been reduced in distribution to very small populations and are now subject to very vigorous weed growth (Kikuyu grass etc).
Native grasses, sedges, aquatics and semi-aquatics are listed under the main headings of Grass and Aquatics.
A comprehensive list of the native survivors will appear toward the end of 1996 because many are difficult to spot until they flower. Many species may be confined to a small area, so are easy to overlook on first sight.
It was decided late in the study to include some of the tree species. Further work will take place later in the year.
LIST
Acacia decurrens (Black Wattle)
*Very high tannin producing plant, used by tanners during the early years. Probably more common than A. Parramattensis.
Acacia falcata (Sickle Wattle)
*Scattered examples in remnant native areas.
Acacia floribunda (Sally Wattle)
*Scattered. Needs further work, some appear to have been nursery plants.
Acacia implexa (Hickory)
*Scattered. Needs further work.
Acacia linearfolia (Wattle)
*Unlikely attribution unless a nursery native. Acacias to be studied later in the year when in bloom.
Acacia longifolia var longifolia (Sydney Golden Wattle)
*Requires confirming when in flower (June-November).
Acacia parramattensis (Sydney Green Wattle)
*Scattered around the Park. There is also a Parramatta Grass and a gum with Parramatta as part of the name.
Alternanthera denticulata (Lesser Joyweed)
*Scattered along the two creeks and River.
Alternanthera nana (Hairy Joyweed)
*Not common.
Angophora floribunda (Rough-barked Apple/Angophora)
*Numerous along the upper and lower banks between the Dairy Precinct and the north end of The Crescent.
Angophora subvelutina (Broad-leaved Apple/Angophera)
*Distribution as for A. floribunda.
Brachychiton sp
See Trees. There are two species of Brachychiton in the Park, the Illawarra Flame and Kurrajong, both are introduced natives.
Bursaria spinosa (Blackthorn, Boxthorn)
*Very common in all remnant native areas. The Blackthorn is the dominant native in most remnant areas.
Caesia vittata (Blue Grass Lily)
*Rare. Native remnant area, upper north end of The Crescent.
Callistemon citrinus (Red Bottlebrush)
*A number grow along (even in) the River, particularly along the northern end. At least one noted along the Domain Creek, south end.
Casuarina glauca (Shea Oak, River Oak)
Many of these have been planted along the Domain Creek. The Shea Oaks to the north of Government House appear to be endemic but may have propegated from one or two specimens which survived clearing above what used to be the bilabong. The ones at the lower end of Rose Hill Creek, not far up from The Island are endemic: these are testimony to a time when the water was more saline than it is now. At the latter two places the trees propegate by suckers, not so the ones planted along Domain Creek. Once established almost anywhere, they thrive.
The nursery specimens along Domain Creek should be cause for concern because they do not belong there: they were planted under the mistaken belief that they belonged along the creek. The spacing of the trees, despite the attempted random distribution, and the distance of the trees from the water attests to the artificiality of the planting. The trees are approximately 40 to 60 years old. The trees alter the appearance of the creek from anything it ever was since 1789. In time they will also alter the type of growth beneath them. The creek is of prime heritage and natural history value, preserving several rare species of aquatic plants.
Chenopodium pumilio (Clammy Goosefoot, Small Crumbweed, Boggabri)
*Fairly widespread. Check for C. murale.
Chenopodium trigonum (Fishweed)
*Mostly in the north-west area of the Park, in or near remnant native growth. The leaves vary considerably, even on the same plant. Has minute reddish flowers.
Commelina cyanea (Scurvy Weed)
*Common. Confined to shady or moist areas: the creeks, sections along the River, the Dairy Precinct etc.
Convolvulus erubescens (Australian Bindweed)
*Widespread in or near remnant native areas. A very attractive but messy climber.
Cotula australis (Common Cotula, Carrot Weed)
*Widespread and common as a weed.
Desmodium brachypodum (Large Tick Trefoil)
*Remnant native areas. Requires further study.
Desmodium rhytidophyllum (Rusty Tick Trefoil)
*Remnant native areas.
Desmodium varians (Small Pink Pea Flower)
*One of the more successful natives. Grows very small in mowed areas near to remnant native areas.
Dianella longifolia Syn Dianella laevis (Smooth Flax Lily)
* These plants are diagnostic of native remnant areas. The specimens (all?) on the west side of Domain Creek, adjacent to the Wistaria Gardens were planted along with the other nursery native plants. However, a few on the east side of the creek, above the bank, seems endemic to the site (survived by growing against eucalyptus trees. Damaged by frequent mowing). A large population grows along the Railway boundary----recolonizing the Park along the fence since the laying down of bark and the cessation of mowing. The berries are often diseased. See D. revoluta.
Dianella revoluta (Black-anther Flax Lily)
*Not yet confidently identified but thought to be present.
Dodonaea triquetra (Common Hop Bush)
*Common along the banks between the Wistaria Gardens to the north end of The Crescent.
Dichondra repens (Kidney Weed)
*A weed species. Widespread and common.
Epilobium billardierianum (Willow Herb)
*Not common. Found along the River below the Dairy Precinct but should be found elsewhere.
Eucalyptus sp
*These will be dealt with later in the year. See section on Trees. Some 200 were introduced to the Park in 1945.
Emphasis should now be on encouraging the endemic species of the Park to seed and discouraging the introduced species, otherwise the whole character of the Park will alter and result in a park little different to any other public park.
Restrict mowing in areas under indigenous stands. Spread neutral bark (can carry seeds and insects) in carefully selected areas. Some areas are naturally fairly bare and spreading bark in such areas would result in the loss of endemic species, particularly at the north end of the Park.
Eucalyptus fibrosa (Broad Leaved Ironbark)
* Scattered.
Eucalyptus tereticornis (Forest Red Gum)
*The most characteristic tree of Parramatta Park of old. Now mostly growing in mown areas. The lack of young trees should be cause for concern regarding the future appearance of the Park.
Euphorbia dallachyana (Caustic Weed)
*A widespread weed. Check for the similar E. Drummondii.
Euphorbia drummondii (Caustic Creeper)
*Sporadic?? Check.
Ficus rubiginosa (Port Jackson Fig, Rusty Fig)
*Several along the ridge from The Crescent to the Dairy Precinct (and elsewhere). These start out as epiphytes on trees (two may be seen at the Dairy Precinct as epiphytes). One specimen at The Crescent has overpowered its host and is now almost a tree in its own right.
Ficus macrophylla (Port Morton Bay Fig)
*An introduced native fig. Kiosk area and several scattered examples.
Glochidion ferdinandi (Cheese Tree)
*Along the banks between the Dairy Precinct and the north end of The Crescent. Recorded in three other sites in the Parramatta area.
Glycine clandestina (Twining Glycine)
*Fairly common in or near native remnant areas.
Glycine tabacina (Winding Glycine)
*Native remnant areas.
Goodenia hederacea (Ivy Goodenia)
*Restricted to remnant native areas
Grevillea robusta (Silky Oak)
*Not endemic to the Park. Introduced during the 1860s. Most of the trees seen at present are self-sown. Should be culled.
Hardenbergia violacea (Purple Twining Pea)
*Native remnant areas. There is a form which is said to be found at Liverpool, Campbelltown and Parramatta, a 'bushy erect form'. This form seems to survive along the Railway boundary fence area.
Hibbertia diffusa (Guinea Flower)
Remnant native areas. Examples recorded elsewhere in the Parramatta district.
Jacksonia scoparia (Dogwood)
*In or near remnant native areas. Check
Laxmannia gracilis (Slender Wire Lily)
*Rare. Noted at the north end, upper west bank, of the River. Also along the Railway boundary fence.
Leptomeria acida (Native Current)
*Specimens noted between the road and River at The Crescent. Specimens cleared for mowing since December 1995.
Linum marginale (Native Flax)
*Provisional Identification. Native remnant areas.
Lomandra filiformis ssp coriacea (Mat Rush)
*Rare. Noted at the north end, upper west bank, of the River and along the Railway boundary.
Melaleuca stypheloides (Prickly Leaf Paperbark)
Although some specimens may be endemic to the Park, many have been planted at various stages of the Park's more recent history. A number of large specimens may be found throughout the Park.
Melaleuca sp.
These will be dealt with toward the end of the year. Many have been planted this century.
Omalanthus populifolius (Bleeding Heart, Native Poplar)
*Specimens scattered throughout the Park, particularly near the creeks and river. The small leaved species may also be represented.
Persoonia linearis (Narrow Leaf Geebung)
Remnant native areas. Check.
Pittosporum undulatum (Sweet Pittosporum)
*Common in native remnant areas between The Crescent and the Dairy Precinct. Some years ago during a weed control program between the River and the top of the Ridge, large and small plants were cut down and poisoned. Some of the poisoned examples survive as miserable looking mutants. Found sporadically elsewhere.
Plantago varia (Sage Weed, Small Plantain)
*Fairly widely distributed. A number of examples survive around the Jacaranda to the east of the Dairy Cottage (accidently mowed in January).
Pseuderanthemum variable (No common name)
*Several small isolated colonies have been found: creek bank near the George Street Gatehouse; railway boundary fence?; upper north end of The Crescent.
Senecio quadridentatus (Cotton Fireweed)
*Grows with other natives along the Railway boundary fence.
Solanum Aiculare (Kangaroo Apple)
*Several may be found at the north-west end of the Park. The one growing on the west side of the Domain Creek, adjacent to the Wistaria Gardens was probably planted with the other nursery natives there. Requires further study.
Stackhousia viminea (Slender Stackhousia)
*Railway boundary fence.
Tricoryne elatior (Yellow Rush Lily)
*Railway boundary area.
Wahlenbergia gracilis (Australian Bluebell)
*Fairly common in remnant native areas.
Zornia dyctiocarpa (Zornia)
*Remnant native area, upper north end of The Crescent.
AQUATIC AND SEMI-AQUATIC PLANTS
INTRODUCTION
Parramatta Park has a surprising number of aquatic and semi-aquatic plants along the two creeks. Small areas of Domain Creek preserve quite a number of unexpected aquatic plants: this suggests that the creek in places has never undergone radical alteration AND IT IS IMPORTANT TO PRESERVE IT THAT WAY. There is a need for weed control but this must be done under strict professional direction. The invasion of Kikuyu grass, among several aggressive weeds, along the banks and over plants must be arrested.
There are many introduced aquatic and semi-aquatic plants that live in fair harmony with the endemic plants: the harmony should be maintained and monitored. Considering the frequency of flooding, it is surprising that some of the species found in the Domain Creek have not colonized the River.
At least one native aquatic plant found is considered very rare in the Sydney district, Potamogeton ochreatus (Blunt Pondweed). Out of over sixty surveys by the Royal Botanic Gardens in the Western Sydney district over the last twenty years, only one population was recorded. This weed survives in one small section of Domain Creek along with some other rare survivals.
LIST
Alisma plantago-aquatica (Water Plantain) Native
*Fairly rare. A number of scattered plants at the Domain Creek (not near the aquatic native concentrations). A few isolated plants survive between The Island and the creek outlet. These attractive plants need help because they are being squeezed out of existence by rank weeds, despite seeding well.
Alternanthera philoxeroides (Alligatorweed) South America
*Common along the River and the lower parts of the creeks (check), forming modest rafts. The plant in New South Wales received notice in 1944 but it was well established then. The Alligatorweed Flea-beetle (Agasicles hygrophila) was introduced in 1977 at the Georges River etc., as a biological control. These beetles (small black and orange) are present in the River and from December 1995 to February 1996 have stripped, or shredded, most of the leaves. This process probably takes place every year.
Azolla filiculoides (Ferny Azolla) Native
*A few only in the ponds between the north end of Domain Creek and the Wistaria Gardens. Check for A. pinnata (branching roots etc). Not seen in the River.
Callitriche stagnalis (Common Starwort) Introduced
* Common along the two creeks. Check for native Callitriches.
Ceratophyllum demersum (Hornwort) Native (also Cosmopolitan)
*Rare. Found along a short stretch of the Domain Creek only.
Chara sp (Stonewort, Muskgrass)
Uncommon? This is actually a type of algae, though has the appearance of an aquatic plant. Has the appearance of a simplified, elongated Hornwort. Found along a short stretch of the Domain Creek with other purely aquatic plants.
Cotula coronopifolia (Waterbuttons) Native (also Cosmopolitan)
*Common along the creeks and parts of the River. Specimens along the brackish part of the Parramatta River, across from the Queen's Wharf area, seem to have more divisions on the leaf and seem thicker.
Indicated as fairly rare in the Western Sydney district.
Eichhornia crassipes (Water hyacinth) Introduced
*Common in the River and lower parts of the two creeks. A potential pest.
Hydrilla verticillata (Water thyme) Native
*Rare. Needs confirming when in flower. The introduced species appear very similar. Found along a short stretch of Domain Creek with other rare species.
Ludwigia peploides ssp montevidensis (Water Primrose) Native
An attractive plant along the two creeks and parts of the River. Grows from the edge out into the water. Not common in the Sydney district.
Myriophyllum aquaticum syn. M. braziliense (Brazilian Water Milfoil) South America
*Common along the Creeks and River. Seems to exist in harmony with the natives in the creeks.
Nymphaea sp Introduced
*On the Stadium side of the River and the lower half of the Rose Hill Creek (pond next to the historic culvert). Need to wait for flowering before a proper identification can be made.
Paspalum paspalodes Syn Paspalum distichum (Water Couch) Native
*Common along the creeks and River. These form an important part of the water landscape AND ARE EASY TO CONFUSE WITH RANK EXOTIC GRASSES, CARE MUST BE TAKEN NOT TO REMOVE THESE PLANTS DURING WEED CONTROL OPERATIONS!!
Persicaria decipiens (Slender Knotweed) Native
*Fairly common at the two creeks and River. Often growing into the water at the two creeks. There are some attractive groups of this plant along the Domain Creek.
Persicaria hydropiper (Water Pepper, Smart Weed) Native
*Fairly common at the two creeks and River.---check distribution.
Plantago major (Greater Plantain) Native also of Europe and Asia
*Scattered along the creeks and River. This good-looking plant can be confused with the rare (for the Park) Alisma plantago-aquatica (Water Plantain).
Potamogeton Ochreatus (Blunt Pondweed) Native
*Restricted to a very small area along the Domain Creek among other uncommon aquatic species.
****Very rare in the Sydney district. Conservation status: vulnerable.
Prunella vulgaris (Self-heal) Native-cosmopolitan.
Rare in the Park and Sydney district. Several small colonies: River edge below the Dairy Precinct: and The Island, where half of the tiny group was mown away for the Australia Day celebrations. Grows at the water edge.
Classified as 'vulnerable' in the Western Sydney district.
Ranunculus repens (Creeping Buttercup) Europe and Asia
*Common along the two creeks and River. There may be more than one species involved.
Rorippa microphylla (One-row Watercress) Domain Creek.
Requires further investivation.
Rorippa nasturtium-aquatica syn. Nasturtium officinale. (Watercress) Introduced
*This member of the mustard family may be found along the two creeks and sections of the River. Fairly common.
Rumex brownii (Swamp Dock) Native
*Along the creeks and River.
Salvinia molesta Syn. S. Auriculata (Salvinia) Introduced
* Lower ends of the creeks and along the River.
Spirodela oligorrhiza (Duck Weed) Native/Introduced
Full identification pending rediscovery.
*One minuscule colony discovered, mid Domain Creek. Unfortunately, soon after the discovery, a storm flushed out the creek (beginning of January 1996). Several attempts to find it again have failed. (This is not a tall story, considering the pest this floating plant can become). It seems that fragments survive in the weed and slime: the population slowly builds up until the next storm etc. It seems extraordinary that not one specimen has been found in the River.
Note: February 10, 1997: The colony was rediscovered later in 1996 in the same place, so the slime theory seems to be the case. Experimentation 'at home' showed that the plant likes to put roots down into slime. Introduced into several different home pond environments (nutrient rich and average) during late Winter, Spring and Summer, the plant was found to be slow growing and absolutely no match when compared to Azolla and Salvinia.
Triglochin procera (Water Ribbons) Native.
*Parts of Domain Creek and The Island creek only.
Veronica anagallis-aquatica (Blue Water Speedwell) Introduced
*Uncommon. Found at the River edge, east of the Dairy Precinct. Several other uncommon semi-aquatic species were found nearby.
PARRAMATTA PARK
FAUNA
Note: The
survey took place up to March 1996. Additions after that time are marked with a
cross (+). 10 February 1997 by Robert V J
Varman.
INTRODUCTION
It was not the original intention to include fauna in the flora study of Parramatta Park. However, it seemed a lost opportunity not to include a list of the fauna I came across while searching the Park for plants. The lists will be of use as an indication of what may survive in the Park and complements the flora lists, particularly in judging the degree of integrity of native remnant areas, for example the presence of Meat Ants (Iridomyrmex detectus), Golden Derriere Ants (Polymachis sp) or native terrestrial mollusca (snails).
The presence of certain introduced species, particularly of terrestrial mollusca, can give an indication of continuum from days where the plant diversity of the Park was greater. Some introduced species came with soil from other lands, the plants may long since have gone but the snails may live on if the conditions are right.. This was particularly found to be so at Kingston, Norfolk Island (some 10 introduced species and some eighty endemic species) and can provide clues to old colonial and international trading patterns. It would be expected that Parramatta and Kingston would share the same series of species; however, the dry nature and harsh temperatures of the Park means that only the most hardy survived.
No night time surveys were undertaken. No specimens were taken but the locations of sightings are recorded on the following plans (not here included). Alienated areas such as the Golf Club and Stadium area are not covered.
The plant survey received priority for this first part of the flora and fauna survey. It is planned to pay more attention to the invertebrates as the year progresses.
It is hoped that this list may be added to as new species are noticed by those working in or using the Park.
I N T R O D U C E D
M A M M A L S
INTRODUCTION
The following introduced mammals have been recorded in the Park at some time in history. The nature of this survey precludes the presentation of documentation (footnotes) but such can be provided on request.
Cat: Felis catus
*As pets in the past: one is depicted at the front door of the Dairy Cottage in a 1962 photograph of Chief Ranger, C. A. Sim. I have not seen any but may come in from time to time. Linda Drew-Smith curator of Old Government House has reported four strays at OGH, attempts to trap them have not been successful.
Cattle; beef and milk producing. Bos taurus
*Introduced to Parramatta by late 1790 or very early 1791. The first breed was from Capetown: black, based on Bos indica probably resembling a slim version of the Santa Gertruda breed with longer downward-sloping horns--later continually crossed with European breeds to improve milk and meat production.
Agistment was discontinued 1945. After 1945 for special events only (Australia Day celebrations etc).
Deer Axis sp., Cervus sp
*Deer were kept in the Park during the Macquarie period (perhaps descended from to the Indian spotted deer (Axis axis?) which Dr John Harris imported around 1808); and again by the 1930s (Murray Garden - R.S.L. area)
Dog Canis familiaris
As pets and guard dogs. The Ranger's guard dog 'Oscar' is the only dog resident in the Park. Many dogs, on leashes in most cases, are walked through the Park daily.
Flying fox
*During a heat wave 'large fox bats' dropped into the 'water', early in 1791. This was a general comment for Parramatta.
+The ranger, Mr Warren Breckenrigg and Park secretary (1996), Mrs Di Stow have both claimed to have seen flying foxes at night or just after sunset.
Fox Vulpes vulpes
*Probably became a problem after the 1880s from releases in Victoria between 1845 and 1864. There have been no sightings in recent years.
Goat Capra hircus
*See Sheep.
Horse Equus caballus
*There were once several stables in the Park. Chief Ranger, C.A. Sim was probably the last Park ranger to keep a horse (Dairy Precinct). The occasional horse is still to be seen, though rarely.
Mouse (House Mouse) Mus musculus
*Still present in large numbers but mostly living out of doors. There was a mini-plague of them in January-February (1996).
Pig Sus scrofa
*By, at the very least, 1824 in or near the Dairy Precinct. In the Parramatta district from 1790.
Rabbits Oryctolagus cuniculus
*Noted as a pest in 1911. The Park has been free of rabbits for many years, unlike one or two of the larger Sydney parks. Some of the holes along the river bank may have been created by rabbits but are now used by lizards.
Rat (Black Rat) Rattus rattus
*Not mentioned in the records. Present in limited numbers. No rats or mice reported at Old Government House for over twenty years (pers. comm. Linda Drew-Smith, curator).
Sheep Ovis aries
*Probably passed through the area. Goats may have been kept at the Park at various times. Awaits documentation.
Water Rat Hydromys chrysogaster
*May be present along the River. Not yet seen, though loud splashes are often heard as one passes by.
+ The Park Ranger, Mr Warren Breckenrigg, claims to have seen them
Zoo animals.
*Several species seen from time to time. Some kept in the Murray Gardens/R.S.L. area in years past. Camels are brought to the Park on festive occasions such as Australia Day.
+ Alpaccas were kept at the Park during the 1860s and 1870s. A zoo of sorts was maintained in the Murray Garden/R.S.L., area from 1887 at least
M A R S U P I A L S
INTRODUCTION
Originally the Park would have enjoyed the same diversity of marsupials as the rest of the Western Sydney district. The concentration of settlement in and around the Park, the scarcity of food and the love of the hunt would have ensured that all the larger native animals were exterminated within a few years of 1789.
Animals of nocturnal habits and the greatest range of food preferences had the greatest chance of survival. Not untypically for an urban area, the only marsupial survival is the possum. Night surveys may uncover more than one species of possum.
Common Ringtail Possum Pseudocheirus peregrinus
*Fairly common in the more leafy parts of the Park, particularly around the Dairy Precinct.. In 1993 one was unexpectedly discovered living in one of the chimneys of the Dairy Cottage (pers. comm. David Darwick, builder). The present ranger, Warren Brackenrigg, reports a thriving population.
The remains of a Ringtail was found near the new railway gate at the carpark next to the Old Bowling Club, evidently the result of a skirmish with a train.
B I R D S
INTRODUCTION
There are many dedicated bird watchers in the area and at least one state-wide organization that co-ordinates bird surveys on a yearly basis. Bird watchers and the community in general should be encouraged to record bird species seen in the Park. I have not taken a great deal of notice of the birds in the Park but have noticed that not many Honeyeaters are to be seen, reflecting the flora of the present day Park. I have not yet looked at the Wistaria Gardens in any great detail.
Chicken Gallus gallus
*Introduced to Parramatta by around 1790. Feral chickens noted recently (pers. comm., Glen Wehrmann).
Currawong, Pied. Strepera graculina
*Often heard around the Dairy Precinct.
Dove, Laughing Streptopelia senegalensis
*See below
Dove, Spotted-turtle Streptopelia chinensis
*Occasionally seen or heard. Governor Macquarie built a dove and pigeon house between 1817 and 1819.
Duck
*Although introduced to Parramatta by 1793, it is not known when ducks began to live the feral life along the River. Feral ducks are still present, augmented from time to time by new releases. Two white ones were seen recently, though one was killed by a dog not long after).
+There is strong evidence that the ducks keep several aquatic plant pest in check
Egret
*Seen around the creeks. Not sure of the type.
Emu. Dromaius novaehollandiae
*Two emus ran through the tents of the first camp site (east of Old Government House) in 1789, causing a commotion.
Governor Macquarie had a cage built for a pet emu (pers. comm., Ralph Hawkins).
Indian Minah Aridotheres tristis
*One of the most common birds seen in the Park. One (failed) nest observed in January, mid Domain Creek area.
Kookaburra Dacelo gigas
*Often to be seen around the Dairy Precinct from time to time.
Magpie Gymnorhina tibicen
*Occasional.
Magpie Lark, Peewee Grallina cyanoleuca
*Occasional.
Pelican Pelecanus conspicillatus
*Seen from time to time in the River.
Pigeon, Domestic Columba livia
*Common in the east end of the Park. A large dove and pigeon house was built at Old Government House around 1819.
Plover, Masked. Vanellus miles
*An extremely aggressive breeding pair with their nest on the overgrown grass of the Old Bowling Club, September 1994. Area since converted to a rose garden.
Rosella, Eastern. Platycercus eximius
*Otherwise also known as the Rosehill Parakeet, NOT SEEN. This seems to be the species after which the name Rosella was named, that is Rosehiller, a bird first known from Rose Hill (Parramatta).
Seagull Larus novaehollandiae
*Seen scavenging mainly in the east half of the Park.
Sparrow Passer domesticus
*Common
Starling (Sturnus vulgaris) Sturnus vulgaris
*Fairly commonly seen.
Sulphur-crested Cockatoo Cacatua galerita
*A large flock inhabits the Park. I have counted over 80 birds on one occasion. They often tear up the grass while searching for food and at times break off small branches from trees.
Swamphen Porphyrio porphyrio
*The Purple swamphen lives along the River and the lower parts of both creeks. Fairly common.
Swan, Black Cygnus atratus
*Seen from time to time in the River.
NOTE: A list of a large number birds prepared during the 1960s by local bird watchers, if accurate, demonstrates a catastrophic decline in the number of bird species seen in the Park since that time.
R E P T I L E S
INTRODUCTION
The following list represents a number of incidental sightings over the last year or so. No snakes have yet been seen, though there is no reason why they should not still survive, particularly on the Stadium side of the River. It is likely that turtles may be found in the River and perhaps the ponds in the Wistaria Gardens.
Blue-tongued Lizard Tiliqua scincoides
*A live adult lizard and a dead half-grown lizard were sighted in February 1995 on the sloping land to the North-east of Old Government House. Ralph Hawkins spotted one along the ridge, closer to the Dairy Precinct.
Eastern Water Dragon Physignathus lesueurii
*First definite sighting on the upper slope of the ridge between the Dairy Precinct and The Crescent in January 1996. The specimen seen was of the variety with red markings on the underside of the head, neck and forearms.
Jacky Lizard Amphibolurus muricatus
*Sightings in December 1995 along the Stadium side of the River. The view was not very clear and might have been mistaken for the Eastern Water Dragon.
Large Skink
*Species as yet uncertain. Could be one of the following Eulamprus sp (tenuis or quoyii) or Ctenotus robustus.
These inhabit the River and creek edges in fairly large numbers. One population living along the banks of the railway lines, next to the carpark near the Old Bowling Club, has a darker back than seen elsewhere.
Unidentified lizard
*A lizard similar in outline to the Water Dragon and Jacky Lizard, only slightly smaller (approximately 400mm, immature?), was seen on the Stadium side of the River. The lizard was black in colour with a series of rows of light dots across the lizard's back.
+Suspected juvenil of one of the above.
+ Snake
Since the initial survey a snake (species not identified) was seen near the George Street Gatehouse. (Pers. comm. Di Stow).
+ Turtle
Chelodina longicollis Eastern Snake-Necked Turtle, Long-Necked Turtle
Since the initial survey, I found one of these turtles in the mid section of Domain Creek (Sept-October 1996). A few weeks earlier I spoke to a Chinese man who had one of these turtles in his bag but could not determine where he obtained the turtle (now probably only a memory of turtle soup).
F R O G S
INTRODUCTION
Frogs have also not been systematically studied. Only two species have been identified to date but it is certain that several more exist, considering the better than expected state of Domain Creek (goodly number of uncommon aquatic plants identified). The following have been seen or heard while surveying aquatic and semi-aquatic plants.
Brown Striped Frog Limnodynastes peronii
*Heard by call along the two creeks during December 1995. A dead one seen and eggs spotted February 22, 1996 along the mid section of Domain Creek.
Eastern Dwarf Tree Frog Litoria fallax
*By call, December 1995 to January 1996, at both creeks.
Tadpoles
*These were found at the Murray Gardens' creek in December 1995 (Glen Wehrmann). Two sizes seen, large and medium small (two spawnings?). Unfortunately storm water flushed out the creek during the first few days of January.
NOTE: It is surprising that frogs have managed to survive along the creeks because of the existence of thousands of Mosquito Fish (Gambusia affinis). The introduced fish has cleared the waters of almost all insect life. If eradication fails, small artificial ponds may need to be established along the creeks to promote native species.
F I S H
INTRODUCTION
The section of the Parramatta River which runs through the Park is fresh water. Judging by the remnant Casuarina glauca along the lower half of Rose Hill Creek, not far above The Island, the lower part of the River may once have been brackish. No native fish have been noticed to date, except perhaps for a species of eel. Mosquito Fish (Gambusia affinis) are so plentiful in the creeks and River that they inhibit almost every other form of animal life.
The following are incidental sightings:
Carp, Common Cyprinus carpio ('Prospect')
*Very large (around 300mm) specimens of what is assumed to be the Common Carp are to be seen swimming in the large ponds in the Wistaria Gardens: the waters there are generally of a muddy hue but that may be because of the ducks and Swamphens. The identification of this species should be checked by an expert in the field and an assessment made whether they should be regarded as a pest or a danger to the River (if they are not there already). There may be other varieties of fish there but may be difficult to see because of the quality of the water.
Eel, Short-finned Anguilla australis occidentalis
*One seen just under the north end of the historic culvert near the George Street Gatehouse. Dark greyish in hue with the characteristic ridge fin beginning half way along the length of the eel. No spots.
Goldfish Carassius auratus
*Fairly large and small specimens were to be seen in the pond on the north side of the culvert near the George Street Gatehouse by 1993 to 1995. The Goldfish are of the typical gold variety, as available for sale. The pond was flushed out by a number of rain storms after a long period of dry mid to late 1995. It is assumed that these fish are now in the River.
Mosquito Fish Gambusia affinis
*Thousands inhabit the creeks and are found in the Wistaria Garden ponds and the River. Only very occasionally when rain falls after drought and fills some of the ponds along the creeks but not enough to flow, other forms of life may prosper for a while because these fish can not reach these 'ponds'. This occurred at the Murray Gardens in December 1995 when tadpoles were found in the pond at the south end before the footbridge; when rain fell early in January the ponds were united as a stream again and the fish were able to get access to the tadpoles.
Very few species of fish or insects can withstand the Gambusia, they are well known for clearing out all forms of animal life in creeks and ponds.
INSECTS AND INVERTIBRATES
INTRODUCTION
Ants and land mollusca are treated under their own heading are treated under their own heading because of the potential diagnostic qualites regarding the introduced and natural heritage of the Park.
Not much time has been spent on insects and invertibrate fauna generally. The following is based on incidental observations, an indicative list only.
Ant
*See heading at the end of this section.
Antlion
*The nymph seen in sandy dry areas all over the park, under trees such as at the Dairy Precinct; under the eaves such as at Old Government House etc.
Beetle
*Apart from the common Christmas Beetles, the Park houses a number of very colourful beetles: Harlequin beetle, on the base of an old gum near the Bath House; Red-spotted and a gaudily coloured beetle at Old Government House
Caddisfly
*Nymph casings seen at the Domain Creek.
Cicada
*Numerous in or near native remnant areas. A large number emerged at the Dairy Precinct around November 1995. A smaller species was noted (nymph casing) in the lower half of Rose Hill Creek amidst the remnant Casuarina glauca grove: the species must be able to tolerate flooding because this area is often inundated during heavy rains.
Cockroach
*Several introduced species but one or two native ones have been spotted in native remnant areas.
Dragonfly
*About five species have been noticed, the most common being: Pseudagrion aureofrons (thin, luminous blue at both ends, all areas of the Park) and Nannophya occidentalis (wide, red back).
Millipede
*The larger, light coloured with tan longitudinal stripes type (Spirobolid?) type is seen in the moister parts of the Park: Dairy Precinct, Wistaria Gardens, along the upper river banks etc.
Slater
*The most common type in the Park seems to be the hard-shelled Pill Bug type, particularly in the west part of the Park (Dairy Precinct, Wistaria Gardens but also the Old Government House area).
Spider
Several unspectacular spiders including: Orb-weaver (elongated type); Huntsman; Common Garden Spider (grey, thick-set, live in long grass and rubbish); St Andrew's Cross; Red -back; one sighting of what appeared to be a Funnel-web drowned in the Sunk Dairy well; Trap-doors noticed in the ground between the Dairy Precinct and The Crescent.
Wasp
*Mud and paper nest varieties.
To be continued.
A N T S
INTRODUCTION
Some ant species are vulnerable to urban development, the presence or absence of such species in an area can reveal much about what has happened. Golden Derriere Ants thrive in bushland but become scarce as their habitat is destroyed (though can linger on in an urban area but can rarely form new nests). These ants still thrive in native remnant areas in the Park.
The Meat Ant is very sensitive to urban development because they require large nests and their own foraging pathways in order to thrive: very remarkably, seven such nests have been located in the Park, all in or near remnant native areas. The concentration of Meat Ant nests not far from the Bath House suggests that the area has never been systematically cleared: this is supported by the number of (endemic) Eucalyptus trees and native grasses present. Though not obvious at first sight, the Bath House to Boer War monument area is wedged between two of the best preserved native remnant areas in the Park (north top end of The Crescent and the area on the other side of the railway boundary fence). The former Government House Stables were actually set in bushland, as is indicated in early illustrations. This area has been under pressure for a long time but fortunately, several efforts in the past to Europeanise have failed. The area was once open forest: the trees are still there but the undergrowth has been marginalised to two small remnants nearby. No Bull Ants' nests have survived.
Golden Derriere Ants (Golden Bum Ants) Polymachis sp
Common at native remnant areas, particularly along the railway boundary and as indicated on the plan. These ants are about 8mm long and have distinctive gold- coloured hind quarters.
Green Ant Chalcoponera sp
*These black ants with a green sheen (6mm long) are found all over the park. These ants adapt well to most outdoor conditions. They are aggressively territorial and have a very painful sting.
Meat Ant Iridomyrmex detectus
*There are one small and three large nests along the railway boundary; one large nest next to the road, not far west of the Bath House; and one located near the base of a large tree near the Boer War monument. A surprise discovery was a nest located in the field adjacent to the Wisteria Garden, east side of the creek; a very marginalised native remnant area, largely destroyed by building rubble infil from fairly recent years and constant mowing and slashing.
Silver Derriere Ants (Silver Bum Ants) Polymachis sp
A surprise discovery near a Golden Derriere Ants' nest at the north end of the Domain Creek, west side, near remnant native bush. The hind part of the ant has a silvery tinge. The mid section of the ant is of a golden hue (looks as if the ant was wearing a little golden jacket).
Small Ants
*Several species of small ants are to be found but their names are difficult to determine. One minute light yellow species has workers a little larger than 1mm but have soldiers twice the size and with huge heads used to block the entrances of the nest.
There are slightly larger shiny black ants with onion-shaped posteriors (easily mistaken for the introduced house ant). Several of the smaller species are found all over the Park.
Sugar Ant Camponotus sp?
These are the largish light-orange ants familiar to most. Generally nocturnal. This species does adapt to light urbanization. Widespread in the Park, though not all that common. (Review Latin name).
+Primitive Small Bull Ant species
+Since the period of the initial survey, I spotted the nest of a fairly sluggish species at the Triangle near the Bath House. The ants seemed very particular about the arrangement of minute sticks on their small nest. Later saw other specimens along the Railway boundary. Attempts to find out the name of the species has not yet been successful. Seem to be an inland species (ie not coastal).
(S N A I L S)
INTRODUCTION
The common garden snail is known to all. Few know of the hundreds of native species recorded in Australia. Apart from the common garden snail, there are a few score of other introduced species, though rarely noticed generally because of the small to minute size of the snails. Snails are fussy about where they live and are unbelievably difficult to find even in what would seem to be ideal circumstances.
Many of the small introduced species have never been studied in any great detail and are difficult to name. I have worked at length on about 80 species on Norfolk Island, most endemic to the Island but several minute introduced forms found at Kingston have survived there from the intense agriculture of the First and Second Settlements (1788-1856). As plants were introduced to the Island from the same sources as those of Sydney and Parramatta, links may be found with the chief early international markets for plants, Rio de Janeiro, West Indies, Cape of Good Hope etc. Work on this is ongoing.
Parramatta has harsh weather conditions for many of the introduced species (in contrast Kingston, Norfolk Island has perfect conditions) and many species would have died out at an early stage. Some of the more common native and introduced species have survived in some isolated pockets and are indicators of long time- span survival of the plant communities (native and introduced) which may not otherwise be obvious to the observer. One such pocket survives, unique to the Park, at Old Government House. Hopefully other such pockets may be found.
NOTE: The bulk of the species surviving at Old Government House rely on the leaf build-up against a failing timber fence. It is feared that if the fence is replaced, the greater part of the leaf litter, and the rare survivals, will be lost. The leaf litter should be secured before the old fence is taken down.
Bradybaena Snail Bradybaena similaris
*About half as small as the common garden snail but more rounded. Light brown. Some populations have a darker thin spiral band, some are without it. The ones located in the Park, so far, have the spiral band.
They are now only found on the north side of Old Government House and along the slope below. They are extinct at the Dairy Precinct but existed there up to about 10 or 20 years ago, indicating that the place was more densely planted than it is now.
Common Garden Snail Helix aspera
*Common in all cultivated gardens of the Park. Not overly common at the Dairy Precinct though there is some evidence that it once was more common than it is now.
Elsothera sericatula
*A small (about 3mm across), flattish native snail. Probably held on by living in the leaf debris of the large eucalypts at Old Government House. See plan. This snail is otherwise to be found in native bushland, I have found examples at Sydney's Royal Botanical Gardens, near some rock outcrops.
The following are confined to Old Government House:
Garlic Snail Oxychilus alliarius
*Old Government House, north-west side: the area around the tall gums.
Confined to Old Government House.
Opeas sp
*A common introduced or cosmopolitan species, though rarely noticed because of the small size and its habit of living under leaf litter. A dull glassy, spiral shell, turning white in time after the snail has died. I have not been able to find the snail's scientific name.
Confined to Old Government House but is almost sure to be located elsewhere in the Park.
Carnivorous Snail Strangesta capillacea
An astonishing discovery of one shell was found in leaf debris at Old Government House in the same location as the other snails. (Discovery on March 22, after the completion of this draft). The snail was first recorded (published) in 1822 (Peron's expedition). The survival of this largish native snail in such a restricted habitat is truly remarkable. See comment below.
Vallonia pulchella
*A tiny (about 1.5mm across) introduced species with a wide distribution. Examples found at Norfolk and Lord Howe Islands. I have also found them at Sydney's Royal Botanical Gardens. So far only located at Old Government House.
********So far eight species have been found in the Park, five species exclusively at Old Government House, along the north side. In addition, a native carnivorous snail was found further down the river, deposited after the big storm early in January--may have come from the park.
Brazier's Fluke Snail Simlimnea brazieri
*A native fresh water snail found in good numbers along the Domain Creek.
Slugs
At least three species of introduced slug thrive in the Park.
DRAFT
FOR: PARRAMATTA PARK TRUST
BY : DR ROBERT V J VARMAN
DURING: DECEMBER 1995 - MARCH 1996
A HERITAGE SURVEY OF THE INTRODUCED AND NATIVE FLORA AND FAUNA OF PARRAMATTA PARK