Glycine tabacina

Family:

Fabaceae

Variable Glycine

Other Names: Vanilla Glycine

First Nations Name(s):

Regional Subspecies:

Occurrence:

Regional:

Quite widespread in lower slopes and plains of the region. Previously more common prior to grazing pressures.

Habitat & Site Selection:

Amongst grasses, in open situations and woodland. Prefers open position in dry, well-drained soil and full sun. Tolerates drought. Heavy frost may damage. Generally observed only where grazing is excluded.

Habit:

Small delicate scrambler or climber. Blue to mauve flowers, mainly spring-autumn.

Seed Collection:

Early Oct to late Feb. Monitor closely as seeds released very soon after maturity.

Propagation:

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

VALUES:

Land Protection:

Legume — improves soil fertility through ‘fixing’ nitrogen.

Wildlife:

Good habitat. Eaten by butterfly caterpillars.

First Nations:

Liquorice-flavoured taproot reputedly eaten.

Ornamental:

Attractive groundcover for rockeries.

Other:

Heavily grazed by stock as nutritious and palatable.