 Plants in this group are root sucker clones | Greetings fellow Foxies, Persoonia is an unusual genus in the Proteaceae family. Local names are Geebungs in eastern states (remember Banjo Patersons' famous poem - Geebung polo club?), and snottygobbles in WA. Unlike most Proteaceae genera, persoonias do not have cluster roots. They probably have mycorrhizas like most plants. Their flowers do not have secondary pollen presentation. Stamens in the yellow flowers surrounding the style, mature first and then fold outwards out of the way. They are very fire tolerant. They germinate after fire, but and are difficult to grow from seed. |
I have found three species, all on well-drained soils. Persoonia quinquinervis is a common root-suckering species, which occurs in large patches in Foxes Lair. I also found a similar species Persoonia trinervis at Candy Block.
 Persoonia quinquinervis |  Typical linear leaves |  Persoonia trinervis |
Persoonia longifolia the definitive 'snottygobble, is graceful small tree that grows on gravel uplands in the Darling Range. "When opened, the small, sweet fruit is mucous-like and green hence the first part of its rather singular name. The ‘gobble’ part apparently originated when pioneers observed pigs hastily consuming the fruit."
I have been trying to taste the disgusting looking but tasty drupe for years, but haven't managed to find one at the right stage
I have been trying to taste the disgusting looking but tasty drupe for years, but haven't managed to find one at the right stage
 Snottygobble flowers too early |  firm drupe too late for eating |  Dry fruit much too late |