Family:
Fabaceae
Gompholobium huegelii
Pale Wedge-pea
Other Names: Common Wedge-pea
First Nations Name(s):
Regional Subspecies:
Occurrence:
Regional:
Noted in the areas of Albury and Upper Jerra Jerra-Upper Back. Probably previously more widespread prior to grazing pressures.
Habitat:
Dry sclerophyll forest and heath, on sandy to gravelly soils at moderate altitudes.
Habit:
Erect or spreading small shrub to about 1 m high with leaves 5-20 mm long, in threes (trifoliate).
Flowering:
Pale to bright yellow flowers in spring.
Seed Collection:
Late Dec-late Jan. Monitor closely as seed released immediately or within 1-2 days of maturity.
Propagation:
From scarified seed. Soak in near-boiling water for about 30 seconds, before cooling rapidly under flowing cold water. Alternatively, soak in cold water for several hours before drying and sowing. Suitable for direct seeding in pots (2-3 seeds per pot).
VALUES:
Shade & Shelter:
Useful for low-level cover in windbreaks and in revegetating recharge areas.
Land Protection:
Legume — improves soil fertility through ‘fixing’ nitrogen. Important component of understorey.
Ornamental:
Excellent ornamental for gardens and containers, due to attractive flowers displayed beyond the fine foliage. Prune regularly from when young and after flowering to promote bushiness.