Family:
Fabaceae
Bossiaea walkeri
Cactus Pea
Other Names: Walker’s Stick Bush, Sward Bush, Mallee Rose, Cactus Bossiaea, Walkeri
Regional Subspecies:
n/a
Habit:
Leafless, hairless, tangled, greyish shrub to 2 m high. Flattened branches. Pea-shaped, bright crimson flowers (Sep-Dec, Mar-May).
Habitat & Site Preference:
Mainly on calcareous red earth in mallee communities. Well-drained soils with partial sun. Prefers 300 – 450 mm rainfall in the Riverina.
Seed Collection & Propagation:
Propagate from seed or cuttings. Soak seed in hot water before sowing. Frost and drought tolerant.
Values & Uses:
It’s unusual habit and bright crimson tear-drop flowers make it an interesting species for inclusion in native gardens. Attracts birds and pollinating insects including bees. The honey from Bossiaea walkeri has a very distinctive and pleasant flavour.