Woolly Net-bush - Calothamnus villosus
Calothamnus villosus, also known as the Silky Net-bush is a shrub to 2 metres (over 6') in height and tending to grow in thickets on sand or gravel, particularly over granite. Although common where found, it is not widespread in the Esperance region and to my knowledge is only found in the Cape Le Grand National Park and on the mid to lower slopes of Mt. Burdett 50 km or 30 miles NE of Esperance, plus nearby along Wittenoon Road.
Easily separated from Calothamnus quadrifidus by the number of floral parts (calyx, petals and stamen bundles), which are in sets of five, whereas C. quadrifidus are in sets of four, also the seed capsules are shaped differently, but once both shrubs have been seen, they are quite distinct even from a distance. The blood red flowers are around 3 cm (over 1") in length and are very good for attracting honeyeating birds. Like most Net-bushes, the Woolly Net-bush can flower for considerable periods and odd flowers can usually be found year round, although winter/spring is their main period.
