Etymology
Darwinia named after Dr Erasmus Darwin (1731-1802), an English physician, poet and grandfather of the great naturalist, Charles Darwin. Salina from the Latin 'salinae' meaning salt pans, referring to the species habitat, in or near salty places.
Distribution and status
Endemic to South Australia and found in the central and western parts, growing on the margins and slopes of salt lakes and salty depressions. Native. Unccommon in South Australia.
Herbarium regions: North Western, Nullarbor, Gairdner-Torrens, Eyre Peninsula
NRM regions: Alinytjara Wilurara, Eyre Peninsula, South Australian Arid Lands
AVH map: SA distribution map (external link)
Seed collection and propagation
Collect fruit heads that are darkening, turning brown and drying off. Rub the flower parts in your palm to see if there is any seed. Place the heads in a tray and leave to dry for a week. Then rub the heads with your hands or a rubber bung to dislodge the seeds. Use a sieve to separate the unwanted material. Store the seeds with a desiccant such as dried silica beads or dry rice, in an air tight container in a cool and dry place.