Dillwynia retorta

Commonly known as:

Small-leaf Parrot-pea, Published As “species Complex”

Family

Fabaceae.

Genus

Dillwynia.

Name origin

Dillwynia, after British botanist Lewis Weston Dillwyn (1778-1855). Retorta, to twist or turn back, referring to leaves.

Rainfall

400mm+.

Growth rate

Moderate.

Growth height

Up to 3m.

Presence in Australia

Quite widespread in areas west of the Hume Highway. Noted in the areas Urana-Rand-Corowa; Albury; Bowna-Jindera; Thugga-Culcairn East; Upper Back & Upper Jerra Jerra; Sawyers-Forest-Four Post & Little Billabong; Mullengandra; Fowlers Swamp & Wagra; Keajura and Upper Burkes.

This specie has been identified in the following Australian states: Qld, NSW, ACT, Vic, Tas, SA, WA.

Habitat

Heath to dry sclerophyll forest, on acidic well-drained soil.

Habit

Prostrate to erect shrub to 3m high. Leaves spirally twisted and 4-12 mm long.

Similar species

This variable species complex seems to include at least 2 species and requires critical revision.

Site preference

Well-drained light to medium soil with dappled shade or partial sun. Tolerates frost.

Flowering

Yellow and red, Aug-Dec. Profuse.

Seed collection

Monitor closely as seeds released immediately or within 1-2 days of maturity.

Propagation

From scarified seed or cuttings, which strike readily. Soak in near-boiling water for about 30 seconds, before cooling rapidly under flowing cold water. Alternatively soak in cold water for several hours. Dry to prevent rotting before sowing. Germination occurs in 3-4 weeks. Suitable for direct seeding in pots (2-3 seeds per pot).

Shade and shelter

Low-level cover in windbreaks.

Land protection

Legume – improves soil fertility through ‘fixing’ nitrogen.

Wildlife

Important component of understorey layer.

Ornamental

Very ornamental. Useful in gardens and containers. Responds to hard pruning, which promotes bushiness.