Yam Daisy
Microseris lanceolata
Murnong
Once carpeted the plains in their millions—a dietary staple for Wurundjeri people for thousands of years. The tuberous roots were dug and roasted. European sheep ate them to near-extinction within decades of colonisation. Yellow dandelion-like flowers appear in spring. Now slowly recovering through careful revegetation.
Climate context
Flowers in spring when temperatures reach 9–23°C. Summer-dormant, with tubers developing as the heat builds.
Seasonal indicator
- Flowering during Poorneet (Tadpole season).
When to look
Monthly flowering observations in Victoria. Data from iNaturalist.
Where to look
Observations along the Merri Creek corridor (Fawkner to Dights Falls). Data from iNaturalist.
Historical record
Earliest Victorian specimen: 1872, collected by Morrison, A..
Coranderrk era
Wurundjeri people at Coranderrk station fought for self-determination. Despite their successful farming, colonial authorities sought to close the reserve. William Barak led resistance.
Learn more: Coranderrk, 1881 Inquiry minutes, Yoorrook story map
Specimen data from the Atlas of Living Australia. The collection of botanical specimens occurred alongside — and sometimes in service of — the colonisation of Wurundjeri Country.