Australian Flora Series- Myrtaceae (gums, bottlebrushes)

Plants in the family Myrtaceae form a major part of the Australian ecosystem. They are a familiar sight due to their showy floral displays e.g., eucalypts, tea trees, bottle brushes. This workshop will suit anyone interested in learning about our native flora or simply curious about the natural world. Tanya's aim is to make it easy for people to understand botany, so that they can follow their interests and apply scientific knowledge to practical purposes, such as gardening, plant conservation, plant ID, propagation.

We will examine flowers and vegetative material in detail so as to thoroughly understand processes such as pollination, dispersal and germination the structure. We will discuss the ecology and evolutionary history of the family, in relation to Australia's geology.

Participants can undertake a botanical study, combining art and science to document their observations. Tanya has enjoyed drawing plants from this family accurately in graphite and ink. Gum leaves have provided inspiration for more care-free artwork in watercolour and ink. Tanya has been involved in research projects on Myrtaceae, including supervising a PhD on Chilean Myrtaceae and examining the effects of myrtle rust on the leaf anatomy of some eucalypts. This has inspired her to create artwork inspired by leaf anatomy.

Expectations: Participants are encouraged to take notes and make simple drawings based on observations. These drawings can form part of a "botanical study" to develop into more detailed artwork later. No previous scientific or drawing experience required.

Materials: Participants will need to bring the following items supplies:
Sketch book or pad, with artist quality paper (150 gsm or higher); pencils (2H, HB, 2B); eraser; small transparent plastic ruler with clearly marked measurements; clipboard or drawing board; a small cutting board for dissecting specimens; Stanley knife, razor blade or scalpel.

Reading glasses if you need to use them!

Optional—please do not feel you have to buy any of the following items. If you already possess them, please bring them:

Magnifying glass or jewellers loop/hand lens, magnification x10 or more; Dissecting kit with forceps, scalpel, dissecting needles; watercolours or coloured pencils or other media of your choosing.

About your instructor

Dr Tanya Scharaschkin is a botanist and artist, with over 35 years of teaching experience. Tanya has a Bachelor’s degree in Botany and Zoology and a Master’s degree in Zoology from Pakistan. She has a Master’s degree in Vertebrate Paleontology and a PhD in Plant Systematics from the US. Much of her academic career was spent in Brisbane, Queensland. She is now a free-lance botanist and artist, living and working in Collinsvale, Tasmania.

Tanya is an enthusiastic and well-organised instructor. Her lectures, talks and workshops enable the general public to understand scientific concepts. Tanya conducts a variety of workshops as a way of sharing her enthusiasm for plants and bringing art and science together.

Dates: 5th and 6th May 2026 (two-day workshop)

Time: 10 am to 4 pm

Venue: Apple Blossom Farm is an inspiring location for botanical classes. This amazing garden was featured in Gardening Australia Magazine April 2023 edition. We will have access to the garden during our classes and will be able to examine and draw plants on site. You can find out more about Apple Blossom Farm and can subscribe to their gardening newsletter here:
https://www.goodgardeningways.com/about
Parking: Street parking on Hellessey Road and Glenlusk Road, outside Collinsvale Primary School.

Food: Collinsvale does not have any shops, pubs or cafes. Please bring lunch and snacks for the day. Tea and coffee will be available.

Conditions: A minimum of 6 participants are required for this class to go ahead. Class size is deliberately small to give participants time to ask lots of questions and to work with Tanya individually. No refunds after the 21-day minimum notice period has expired or for missing classes once the course has started. Please do not attend if you are unwell.
Payment: Payment in full is required to secure your place. If you would prefer paying by direct bank transfer to avoid fees, please contact Tanya to make arrangements.