Plants of our Country: Plant Knowledge from Maningrida, Kunbarlanja and Warruwi

Plants of our Country, brings together First Nations plant knowledge, language and art in a richly illustrated guide to the plants of West Arnhem Land.  The book documents more than 100 plant species and their names in many of the languages spoken in Maningrida, Warruwi and Kunbarlanja. It combines botanical information with stories about how plants are used on Country, highlighting their importance for food, fire, cooking, medicine, timber, fibre, tools and fish poison.

For countless generations, people in Arnhem Land have shared knowledge about plants, the seasons and the environment through observation, experience and teaching on Country. Plants of our Country celebrates this continuing tradition and supports the next generation to learn about the plants that sustain people and connect them to Country.

In the words of Kunbarlang elder Paul Narakodj – “Kundulk, djunguyu, mirlak, mabak warridj ka-karrme marekel. Marakel ka-dja karra yalbi ngob. Kuyi marekel karlu, wanjh djal ka-rladwanj ngob” – Trees, jungle plants, grasses and herbs, water plants as well, are all green and alive. Plants grow everywhere. If there are no plants, then everything just overheats, becomes dehydrated and dies.

The book features original artworks by Graham Balang Rostron, depicting plants from his Country, alongside photographs and descriptions that make it both a cultural resource and a practical field guide. It is intended for a broad audience, including people living in West Arnhem Land, school students, teachers, rangers, researchers, nature lovers and visitors to the region.