Beta L.

1 species naturalized Aust.; NSW, Vic., S.A.

*Beta vulgaris L.maritima (L.) Threll.

Herbaceous biennial with erect or ascending stems up to 50 cm high. Lower leaves alternate, up to 10 cm long; petioles c. as long as or longer than the laminas; lamina semi-succulent, rhomboidal to ovate, sometimes cordate, glabrous. Upper leaves narrower with shorter petioles. Flowers bisexual, in clusters in the axils of small leaves which are usually alternate and remote from each other at the base of the spike-like terminal inflorescence. Perianth 5-lobed, becoming thickened and hardened, 5-ribbed at maturity. Stamens 5. Ovary half-inferior. Salty places, e.g. Cook’s River. Wild Beet