The genus Goodenia was named after the 18th-19th century botanist Samuel Goodenough. The species name ovata translates to egg or oval shaped, referring to the leaves. The common name “Hop Goodenia” comes from early settlers using it as Hop for brewing. It may also have been used to treat diabetes.

Hop Goodenia is widespread in forest and woodlands, especially in disturbed sites. It can be found along the east coast of Australia and across into South-Australia. At Manna Park it is found occasionally near tracks on mid-slopes, such as at GDA94 coordinates 07 58 064, 59 18 854.

Click on either photograph to download a higher resolution image (T.Hastings September 2009).