General Description:

Leptosema is a genus of 13 species, all endemic to Australia.  They are small, leafless plants that occur in dry heath and spinifex habitats.   Some, including L.chambersii, were previously classified in the genus Brachysema.  The genus is closely related to Jacksonia.

The common name for Leptosema chambersii derives from the growth habit of the plant with its flowers appearing in clusters around its base.  It is a low-growing plant to about 60 cm high with branched, leafless stems.  The red pea flowers appear in winter and spring and are attractive to honey-eating birds and small marsupials.  

The flowers of L.chambersii have the typical “pea” shape consisting of 4 petals; the “standard”, the “keel” and two “wings”, as shown in the diagram. In the case of Leptosema, the standard is narrow compared to other pea-flowered genera. The flowers are followed by small seed pods.

Despite its attractive and unusual flowering habit, L.chambersii is difficult to grow for extended periods in temperate regions due to its habitat in dry or arid areas. It may be worth trialing as a container plant in temperate regions.  In suitable climates it would be a very attractive species for growing in a well drained, sunny position.  It is hardy to at least moderate frost.

Propagation is easy from seed following pre-treatment to break the physical dormancy provided by the impervious seed coat. Pre-treatment can be carried out by abrasion or by the use of boiling water (further details can be found in under the “Propagation” tab of the “Pea Family” page). The seed retains viability for many years. Cuttings should strike using firm, current season’s growth.