Fabaceae

Widespread. Found across region.

Various habitats, from near sea-level to high mountains, on well-drained soils.

Climbing or prostrate scrambler, stems often to 2 m long. Green leathery leaves and purplish flowers, mostly spring.

Early Oct to late Feb. Monitor closely as seeds released very soon after mature. Ripe seeds hard and grey. Seed often collected with seed-eating insects. Ensure collected seed insect-free before storing.

From scarified seed or cuttings. Pour boiling or very hot water over seeds and soak for several hours. Dry to prevent rotting and sow. Germination takes 3-4 weeks. Suitable for direct seeding in pots (2-3 seed per pot).

Good habitat. Flowers nectar and pollen source for native insects, including moths, butterflies, bees and wasps. Native insects and birds feed on seed. Foliage good refuge for reptiles and insects.

Attractive ornamental for rockeries, embankments, under trees, in containers or for light screen. Hardy, fast-growing and easily maintained. Responds to mulching. Avoid over-watering. Prune severely to rejuvenate old plants. 

Flowers produce grey-blue dye with alum as mordant. Edible roots.