Document information
Physical location:
RB MSS M1, Library, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. 83.02.03Preferred Citation:
Kenric Bennett to Ferdinand von Mueller, 1883-02-03. R.W. Home, Thomas A. Darragh, A.M. Lucas, Sara Maroske, D.M. Sinkora, J.H. Voigt and Monika Wells (eds), Correspondence of Ferdinand von Mueller, <https://vmcp.rbg.vic.gov.au/id//letters/1880-9/1883/83-02-03-final.odt>, accessed June 16, 2026
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MS found with a specimen of Leichhardtia sp. (MEL 113381). MS annotation by M: 'Answ 3/2/83'. Letter not found.
Macquarie St
Sydney
Feby 3rd 1883
The Baron
F. von Mueller
Melbourne
My dear Sir,
I enclose you a specimen of a climbing plant from the country between the Lachlan
and Darling Rivers,
the seeds of which when roasted are eaten by the aboragines The plant in question
grows chiefly on sandy soil and attains a height of 6. or 7. feet but in all cases
supported by some bush or small tree, when broken the stems exude a thick milky juice.
Perhaps you would kindly name this plant for me?
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NSW.
When on the Lachlan recently I bore in mind your request for water plants from that
locality and although it has been a most unpropitious season in consequence of the
continued drought still I succeeded in obtaining specimens of some few species. These
are now on their way from the Lachlan together with a collection of bird skins from
the same locality for the Sydney Museum.
When they arrive I will at once forward the plants to you
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i.e. the Australian Museum, Sydney.
I remain my dear Sir
Yours very truly
K. H. Bennett