Release of two new varieties of white pearl waxflowers

14/8/98

Primary Industry Minister Monty House today released two new varieties of white pearl waxflowers - the Albany Pearl and Denmark Pearl.

The Centre for Australian Plants developed the waxflower varieties for local and overseas markets.

The centre is a collaborative effort between Agriculture Western Australia, Kings Park and Botantic Gardens, the University of WA, the Department of Conservation and Land Management and industry.

Mr House said that the Albany Pearl and Denmark Pearl were part of the pearl waxflower series being developed by researchers.

The first waxflower in the new series - Esperance Pearl - was released last year and all three waxflowers have names recognising their WA origin.

"White waxflowers are very popular in industry, particularly in Europe where they are the leading choice in waxflower colours, so we expect the pearl series to be popular," Mr House said.

"The new pearl series of waxflowers have a longer vase life and improved floral display than the more traditionally known white waxflowers. They are also a much more vibrant white than what has been available in waxflowers in the past."

Albany Pearl and Denmark Pearl have already been trialled at growers' properties in Wanneroo, Bindoon, Coorow, Gingin and Northhampton.

Mr House said researchers aimed to extend the flowering period for white waxflowers significantly with the new pearl series.

"White waxflowers are only usually available for about a month, but through breeding we should eventually be able to provide these new pearl flowers from June through to November," he said.

"Through the breeding program we will be able to give the varieties in the pearl series varying flowering times, so that they follow each other rather than all flowering at the same time."