632 ; AUSTRALIAN NATIVE PLANTS. 
55. Scirpus lacustris, Zzwz., (Syn., S. Meyenii, Nees); N.O., 
Cyperacezs, B.FI., vii.,. 333: 
In 1875 an application was made (but lapsed) at the Patent 
Office, Melbourne, for the manufacture of hats from this rush. 
‘This is cut by a series of knives. . . . The first cut leaves 
' the rush in flat pieces 4; of an inch thick, and a second cut leaves 
the pith of the rush in lengths 3, of an inch square. These cut 
piths and rushes are then spun into a rope in a paper envelope, 
and built up into a helmet hat, or sun-shade, in the usual manner.” 
This plant is not endemic in Australia. 
All the colonies. 
56. Sesbania aculeata, Pers., (Syn. S. australis, F.v.M.) ; N.O., 
Leguminosz, B.FI., ii., 213. - 
““Nardoo” of the aboriginals of the Norman River (Northern 
Queensland). .‘‘ Danchi”’ of India. 
This plant is cultivated in India for its fibre, which, though 
coarse, is of great strength, and very durable in water or when 
repeatedly wetted, and is, consequently, valuable for the ropes of 
fishing nets, etc.; but it is not suitable for ships’ cordage, as it 
contracts very much when wet. It is found also in the West 
Indies, and in tropical Africa. (Treasury of Botany.) 
South Australia, New South Wales to Northern Australia. 
57. Sida rhombifolia, Zzzv., (Syn. S. retusa, Linn.); N.O., 
Malvacez, B.FI., i., 196. 
“Queensland Hemp.” Called ‘“‘ Paddy Lucerne” on the Richmond 
and Clarence Rivers (New South Wales). 
This is the greatest pest in cultivated lands in parts of 
Queensland and New South Wales. It yields a long splendid 
fibre, and could be produced in any quantity. It is not endemic 
in Australia. 
South Australia, New South Wales, Queensland and Northern 
Australia. 
58. Sterculia acerifolia, 4. Cunn., (Syn. Brachychiton acerifolium, 
F.v.M.); N.O., Sterculiacez, B.Fl., i., 229. Brachychiton 
acertfolium in Muell. Cens., p. 15. 
“ Flame-tree.” ‘‘ Lacebark-tree.” 
OO 
