Small-leaf Parrot-pea

Free!

Out of stock

Description

Dillwynia retorta

Commonly known as:

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

Dillwynia retorta flora plant

Dillwynia retorta (outline)

Dillwynia retorta flora location map

Dillwynia retorta flora location map legend

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.