Austral English / A dictionary of Australasian words, phrases and usages with those aboriginal-Australian and Maori words which have become incorporated in the language, and the commoner scientific words that have had their origin in Australasia

by Edward Ellis Morris

<hw>Laburnum, Native</hw>, <i>n</i>. the Tasmanian <i>Clover-tree, Goodenia lotifolia</i>, Sal., <i>N.O. Leguminosae</i>.

<hw>Laburnum, Sea-coast</hw>, <i>n</i>. also called <i>Golden Chain</i>, <i>Sophora tomentosa</i>, Linn., <i>N.O. Leguminosae</i>; a tall, hoary shrub.

<hw>Lace-bark</hw>, <hw>Lacey-bark</hw>, or <hw>Lacewood</hw>, <i>n</i>. names for Ribbonwood (q.v.). The inner bark of the tree is like fine lace.

1876. W. N. Blair, `Transactions of New Zealand Institute,' vol. IX. art. x. p. 175:

"Ribbonwood, <i>Plagianthus betulinus</i>, botanical name, Hooker; Whauwhi, Maori name, according to Hector; lace-bark tree, settlers' name, according to Buchanan."

1882. T. H. Potts, `Out in the Open':

"The soft, bright-foliaged ribbonwood (lace-bark, <i>Plagianthus</i>) contrasts with the dusky hue of the dark-leaved fagus."

<hw>Lace-Lizard</hw>, <i>n</i>. <i>Hydrosaurus (Varanus) varius</i>. See <i>Goanna</i>.

1881. F. McCoy, `Prodomus of the Natural History of Victoria,' Dec. 4:

"Although the present Lace Lizard is generally arboreal, climbing the forest trees with ease, and running well on the ground, it can swim nearly as well as a Crocodile."