Family:
Fabaceae
Dillwynia juniperina
Prickly Parrot-pea
Other Names: Juniper Pea-bush
Name Origin:
Dillwynia — after British botanist Lewis Weston Dillwyn (1778-1855).
juniperina — juniper-like, after a prickly European conifer.
Regional Subspecies:
Similar Species:
Dillwynia sieberi was previously included in Dillwynia juniperina.
Occurrence:
Regional:
Rare in the region. Noted west of the Hume Highway in the areas: Yambla; The Rock-Henty- Milbrulong; Yerong Creek-Wattle Creek, and Burkes and Graveyard.
Australia:
Qld, NSW, Vic.
Habitat:
Dry sclerophyll forest on various soils.
Habit:
Erect prickly shrub 1-2 m high. Rigid narrow leaves 7-15 mm long.
Site Preference:
Well-drained soils in dappled shade or partial sun.
Characteristics:
Very adaptable.
Flowering:
Golden yellow with red.
Seed Collection:
Late Oct to late Feb. Monitor closely as seeds released immediately or within 1-2 days of maturity. Seeds have long storage life.
Propagation:
From scarified seed or cuttings. Soak in near-boiling water for about 30 seconds, before cooling rapidly under flowing cold water. Alternatively soak in cold water for several hours. Dry to prevent rotting before sowing. Germination takes 3-4 weeks. Suitable for direct seeding in pots (2-3 seeds per pot).
VALUES:
Shade & Shelter:
Low cover in windbreaks.
Land Protection:
Legume — improves soil fertility through ‘fixing’ nitrogen.
Wildlife:
Good habitat.
Ornamental:
Decorative. Useful as barrier.