Fabaceae

n/a

Slender climber with fine leaves. Mauve to rose-purple or white flowers, mainly in spring, arising from stout woody rootstock.

Widespread across drier slopes and hills, mostly found where grazing is excluded. Tolerates moderate frost and dry periods once established. Prefers 300 to 500 mm rainfall in the Riverina region.

Collect early Oct-late Feb, seeds released very soon after maturity. Propagate from scarified seed (soak in boiling water, then dry) or cuttings taken in summer. Germination takes 3-4 weeks, direct seeding into pots is suitable (2-3 seeds per pot). Regenerates from seed and suckers, particularly after fire.

Improves soil fertility through nitrogen fixation (legume). Good habitat, providing nectar and pollen for native insects. Attractive light climber for gardens, fences, and logs. Hardy when established, responds to pruning, prefers root protection. Heavily grazed by stock due to nutritional and palatable qualities.