Botany, Australian Dwarf Apple, Angophora cordifolia, NSW, J.H. Maiden Antique Print & Text.

Original chromolithograph after Ernest William Minchen (active 1869-1890) under the guidance of botanical draftsman R. T. Baker for "The Flowering Plants and Ferns of New South Wales, with special reference to their Economic Value" by J.H. Maiden. Issued with copy of original text.

The Dwarf Apple (Angophora cordifolia): iconic botanical illustration featuring a profusion of blossom and nuts (seed casings). Commonly referred to as "Apple", as the roughed bark is similar to the Apple tree, and of the Angophoras, it is the smallest tree. It was first propagated in England in 1787 by Dr. William Pitcairn prior to the port Jackson settlement a year later. Perhaps seeds had been collected by Sir Joseph Banks and Solander on Capt Cook's Voyage? It is a free-flowering and ornamental plant. It belongs to the natural order Myrtaceae, closely related to the Eucalyptus. Habitat is coastal or baron sandstone ridges.Wide range of entomology feed on the nectar and honey from beetles, flies, ants, wasps etc.

Image Size = 14.6 x 21 cm (5 2/3 x 8 1/3 Inch)

Condition = Excellent. Supplied with copy of the original description.

Published by Charles Potter, Government Printer, N.S.W between 1895-1898

Joseph Henry Maiden (1859-1925) Born in London he traveled to Sydney. Among other duties, his interest in Australian flora attracted the interest of director of the Botanic Garden, Charles Moore. Maiden quickly established himself as an expert in economic botany. He encouraged research into the properties of Australian timbers and essential oils. Forest Flora of New South Wales, was issued in 72 parts highlighting the economic values of trees to assist in land management, to illustrate scientifically, and encourage public awareness, from 1885-98. He lectured at the university in forestry in 1913-21 and in agricultural botany in 1914-21. Maiden urged farmers to use herbarium staff to identify grasses and bushes grazed by their stock. Acknowledged awareness of retaining native forests, like the South Australian Conservator for State Forests, John Edne Brown. He passionately supported more parks and trees in urban developments, dispatching seeds and cuttings to schools and councils.