General Description:

The genus Pultenaea consists of around 120 species, all of which are Australian endemics and which can be found in all states and territories. All are small to medium shrubs commonly referred to as “bush peas”. Together with some related genera such as Dillwynia and Phyllota they are also referred to as “eggs and bacon”, a reference to the yellow flowers with red markings.

Pultenaea tuberculata was previously known a P.elliptica.  It is a small shrub to 1-1.5 metres high and 1 metre wide. The small leaves are narrowly oval shaped to about 15 mm long and 5 mm wide.

The flowers of P.tuberculata have the typical “pea” shape consisting of 4 petals; the “standard”, the “keel” and two “wings”, as shown in the diagram. The flowers are longer than they are wide (about 15mm long by 10mm across), which is typical of most species in the genus. They appear in clusters at the ends of stems, mainly in spring but flowering may extend into summer. The flowers are followed by small seed pods.

Pultenaeas, generally, are sometimes difficult to grow for extended periods. P.tuberculata is occasionally grown by enthusiasts but is not in wide cultivation. It should be suited to well drained soils in a sunny or semi-shaded position. It is tolerant of 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 well using firm, current season’s growth.