Document information

Physical location:

RB MSS M1, Library, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne. 83.09.03

Plant names

Preferred Citation:

John Baldry to Ferdinand von Mueller, 1883-09-03. 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/1880-9/1883/83-09-03-final.odt>, accessed June 4, 2026

1
MS found with specimen of Cyathea cunninghamii (MEL 224441). Annotation by M: 'Answ | 6/9/83 | FvM'. Letter not found.
Wildwood Flinders
2
Vic.
Sept 3 [1883]
To Baron von Mueller
Government botanist
Sir
At the suggestion of Mr Geo Sherwood a resident of this district I have taken the liberty of asking If you will kindly give me the name of a (to me) new Tree fern that is if my description will enable you to do so I have at present only seen one specimen of it which has a stem about 4ft long and only about 2 inches in diameter the stems of the Fronds are covered with a scaly soft moss like substance and adhere to the stem of the tree after they are dead and replaced by others In the specimen mentioned remains of the old Fronds are on the stem to within a few inches of the ground.
I may add I think the green fronds have a slightly softer feel to the hand then the other two verieties
Dicksonia antarctica

Search for Dicksonia antarctica in

and the
Alsophila Australis

Search for Alsophila Australis in

I found it in a Creek that rises near Arthurs Seat
3
Vic.
and flows into the sea near Cape Schanck. I enclose a small portion of frond
Apologising for the liberty I have taken
I have the honour
to be Sir
Your Obedient Servt
John Baldry
Wildwood
Flinders