Fabaceae

paradoxa – from Latin paradoxus, contrary to the usual type

Widespread in drier forests of most catchments and districts.

Qld, NSW, Vic, SA, WA. Introduced in Tas.

Various communities and soils.

Erect or spreading shrub 2.5-4 m high. Dark green foliage, fine thorns and finely fissured brownish-grey bark.

Dry shallow soils in higher rainfall areas or heavier soils in areas of lower rainfall. Withstands limited inundation, extended dry periods, alkaline and acidic soil. Very frost tender when young.

Fast-growing. Lifespan up to several decades. Prickliness precludes grazing by livestock. May spread in some districts.

Golden-yellow, July-Nov.

Early Dec to mid Jan. Monitor closely as seeds released immediately or within 1-2 days of maturity.

From scarified seed (± 75 viable seeds per gram). Pour boiling or very hot water over seeds and soak for several hours before sowing.

From seed after disturbance such as fire. Colonises steep bare banks in shallow soils. Readily established when direct seeded.

Useful low-level cover in windbreaks in districts where known not to spread.

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

Excellent habitat. Very useful refuge and nesting sites for small birds, such as wrens and thornbills due to prickliness. Flowers are a food source for moths, butterflies and other insects. Insect-eating birds attracted. Seeds eaten by native birds, including parrots and native pigeons.

Attractive specimen for hedges, barriers, screening, tubs and as cut flower, for districts where it does not spread. Prune lightly after flowering to prevent straggly growth. Resents severe pruning.

Harbours rabbits in some areas, necessitating rabbit control.