Fabaceae

Common name ‘Varnish’ — refers to the shiny or sticky ‘leaf’ appearance.

Widespread throughout region on lower slopes and rises. Less common in the western, drier areas.

Qld, NSW, Vic, Tas, SA.

Chiefly dry sclerophyll forest. Often along rocky streams or skeletal ridges. Also in Box woodland.

Erect or spreading tree or shrub 1-5 m high. Finely fissured grey bark, angled or flattened, usually resinous branchlets, and resinous ‘leaves’ 3-14 cm long.

Well-drained shallow soil. Tolerates moderate frost and extended dry periods.

Golden-yellow, Aug-Oct.

Mid Nov to early Jan, when pods brown and sticky.

From scarified seed (± 63 viable seeds per gram). Pour boiling over seeds and soak for several hours before drying and sowing.

From seed, particularly after fire. Establishes readily when direct seeded.

Useful low-level cover for windbreaks.

Useful for controlling soil erosion due to soil-binding fibrous roots. Legume — improves soil fertility by ‘fixing’ nitrogen.

Excellent habitat. Flowers are a pollen source for native moths, butterflies and other insects. Insect-eating birds such as the Regent Honeyeater attracted. Seed source for parrots and native pigeons. Grubs living in bark are food for native birds.

Reputedly used to stupefy fish before capture.

Attractive, with glistening resinous foliage and bright yellow flowers.

Not known to be grazed by livestock.