'Australian Plants' Vol.10 No.79 June 1979

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Australian
Plants

Registered for posting
as a periodical—Category B

June, 1979
Vol. 10, No. 79

75c



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THE PLANT FAMILY FABACEAE — PAPILIONACEAE —
PEA FLOWERS?

The botanists may have themselves confused about the scientific family
name but to the layman the vast array of pea-flowered wildflowers bring
colour to the bush scene and joy to the garden.

This huge family of plants was for years included in the family Legu-
minosae as they had one thing in common with the wattles, the seed matured
in a long capsule that hung from the plant until ripe, very similar to peas,
widely grown as a vegetable.

While the seed capsules were similar, the flowers of a wattle differ
considerably from the pea-flowers and the new family Papilionaceae was
erected to include only plants producing the characteristic pea-flower. As
described opposite these butterfly-like flowers have a characteristic shape
which can be readily seen in the colour plates of this issue.

To further confuse us this family is also known as Fabaceae and this
looks to be the generally accepted name in the future.

Reference to the past 78 issues of Australian Plants will show that while
the pea-flowered plants have received honourable mention as very good
plants for horticulture, the family has not received the prominence it deserved.
For many years | have been seeking competent botanists to write articles on
these plants and to place them in perspective.

We are indebted to John Wrigley, Curator of the National Botanic
Gardens, who has accepted the challenge to present this large family in
simple broad terms.

Cliff Debenham produced for me a key to genera in the family based
on easily discernible characters for use by the layman and this is started
on page 124. This key was set up some years ago when Cliff's health
enabled him to be the vital contributor that he was to your journal. Possibly
Australian Plants would not have survived without the support of Cliff
Debenham and we are all deeply indebted to him. Readers are asked to
accept this key for what it is, the work of a brilliant and dedicated botanist
ever conscious of the need to involve the ordinary citizen and home gardener
in the latest research of the specialist scientist, and to forgive any small
errors if they exist, which have no doubt come from more recent research
before Cliff started to lose his sight.

Cliff, on behalf of thousands of Australians, | salute you.—Editor.

CONTENTS

Australian Pea-Flowers — Their Cultivaticn ............coooiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiennns J. W. Wrigley 95
The Plant Family Fabaceae C. N. Debenham 124
Weed Control In Gardens of Australian Plants C. J. Borough 139

COVER PLATE:

Chorizema cordatum Photography by M. Fagg.

This plant is ideal for the cover of an issue presenting the pea flowered plants
for horticulture. In my garden | have 30-40 plants of this Chorizema flowering every
<pring. The gardens of ““wildflower nuts” tend to become botanical zoos. The flora is so
immense, there is a temptaticn to have one or two plants of as many species as possible.
What is needed is a few easily grown species that will flower well and planting them
throughout the garden, become a unifying element to produce an overall pleasing effect.

Chorizema cordatum is an easily grown plant that flowers profusely as shown on
the cover of this issue. This is not an unusually vigorous plant; all plants can be ex-
pected to grow to a metre high and a metre across and flower just like this one. For
that rockery area they can be made to grow prostrate as a ground cover but will insist
on throwing up their long heads of flower starting in July and going right through to
November. After flowering cut them back very hard leaving just short stalks 10-15 cm
long. Provided there are a few leaves on each stalk.

Chorizema may be grown from seed to get your first lot of plants but from then
cn grow from cuttings. They grow so easily from cuttings that they are ideal for the
beginner to start on. A 10 cm long cutting from the end of each growing branch in
August to December stripped of all but the top 3-5 leaves and placed into a pot of
clean sand will root in 4-6 weeks. A medium-wood cutting powder could be used. | put
my 10 cm pots containing 40 cuttings in an old concrete washing tub covered with
a sheet of glass, watering every 2-4 days depending on the weather.

The flowers of all Chorizema are similar to those shown on page 104. You must
grow some. —Editor.

Page 94—Vol. 10



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Australian Pea-Flowers

Their Cultivation
By J. W. WRIGLEY, Curator, National Botanic Gardens

NOTE: This article is composed of extracts from the new book, ‘‘Australian Native
Plants’’, written by John Wrigley and illustrated by Murray Fagg. The book is published
by William Collins Pty. Ltd. and is available from most booksellers.

Introduction

The family Papilionaceae forms an important part of the Australian flora.
Genera such as Bossiaea, Daviesia, Dillwynia, Eutaxia, Gastrolobium, Oxy-
lobium and Pultenaea all make up the “bacon and eggs” component of
our spring wildflowers. Others such as Kennedia, Hardenbergia, Milletia,
Mucuna, Canavalia and Entada are climbers which provide colourful interest
and often very fast growth and vigour to cover unsightly fences and other
garden structures. A few make handsome trees, and amongst these are
Barklya, Castanospermum and Erythrina.

The name Papilionaceae ailudes to the butterfly-like flowers, and because
of this descriptive allusion | prefer the name to the modern alternative
Fabaceae. Both names are legitimate.

erect standard

keel

Brachysema lanceolatum

Sketch by M. Fagg

Kennedia nigricans

The pea-flowers have a characteristic shape with a usually erect stand-
ard, two lateral petals forming the wings, and two protruding, partially fused

Page 95—Vol. 10



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petals to make the keel. The characteristic flowers of most species in this
genus are shown in the sketch above of Kennedia and in the photograph of
Gompholobium below.

In some genera such as Brachysema the standard is reduced and the
keei is the prominent part of the flower as shown in the sketch above and
*he photograph opposite.

Pea-flowers come in most colours, with yellows and reds being the most
common. Even black, a rare colour in flowers, is present in Kennedia nigricans.
As shown in the sketch, the standard in this case is reflexed (bent back).

Propagation and cultivation is dealt with under the individual genera and

species, but it is worth making several general comments on seed collection
and treatment.

Gompholobium huegelii Photography by C. Green.

Gompholobium huegelii is a small rockery plant which demands good drainage.
Gompho/oblum usually has large showy flowers as seen here. The digitate leaves of this
species are also a common characteristic.

Brachysema latifolium Photography by M. Fagg.

This Brachysema is a useful ground cover or rockery plant as shown opposite.
The lower photograph shows the flower and the reduced standard typical of the genus.

Page 96—Vol. 10



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Page 97—Vol. 10



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Collection of Seed

Collection of seed of pea-flowers can be a most frustrating business.
Maturing time of most of the spring flowering species is December. Most
species are subject to caterpillar attack, often from the diminutive common
grass-blue butterfly (Zizina otis), which is found throughout Australia. Seed
should be dusted with an insecticide after collection.

The other problem is that in many species all the seed matures at the
same time and as soon as it is ripe it is released from the legume. Gauze
bags can be used effectively to save seed.

Seed Treatment

Seeds of pea-flowers have a very hard coat. These seeds have to have
this hard coat or testa broken to allow moisture to enter the seed and
commence the germination process. In nature, this may happen as a result
of bushfire or by repeated baking and wetting with the changes of weather.

Artificially, there are several methods which may be used.

1. Seed may be scarified by rubbing between two sheets of coarse
emery paper until the testa is sufficiently thin to allow moisture penetration.
Mechanical seed scarifiers can be made where seed is tumbled against a
metal cylinder lined with emery paper by a blast of high pressure air. This
method is used only where large quantities of seed have to be handled.
Such a device, designed by the C.S.I.LR.O., is in use at National Botanic
Gardens.

2. Seed may be nicked with a sharp knife or razorblade. This method
is very slow and particularly tedious when the seed is small. Care has
to be taken not to destroy the internal tissue by cutting too deeply.

3. The third method of treatment is to place the seed in a cup and pour
boiling water over it. This tends to soften the hard testa and the seed imbibes
water and swells. The swollen seed is then removed to the sowing punnet.
Usually, with this method, only some seeds swell after the first treatment.
Those that have not swollen after overnight soaking may be treated again.

Key to Symbols

Symbols are used after each plant description in order to summarise
plant’s qualities and uses.

Ground covers suitable for sloping banks or large expanses without
trees or shrubs.

Ground covers suitable for sloping banks with some trees or shrubs,
or large areas between shrubs.

Ground covers for areas where some height is required.

Ground .covers for small areas between shrubs or between driveway
strips. i

Plants suitable fer poorly drained areas.

Plants suitable for heavy shade.

Plants suitable for areas of low maintenance, e.g. road batters.
Frost-hardy plants. (Plants given a H rating will tolerate frosts to —7°C
in conditions of normal rainfall.)

Plants suitable for a small rockery pocket.

Rockery plants which will trail or spread over rocks.

Rockery plants which reach more than 50 cm high.

Plants recommended for their foliage.

Rockery plants which are reduced to a bulb or tuber in dormancy.
Plants found naturally in alpine regions.

Plants which may attract birds.

Plants which may be used as features.

Useful as cut flowers, foliage or fruits.

Aquatic plants.

Suitable as indoor plants or potted specimens.

Suitable aquarium plants.

0]

IomMm OO W >

~“OTOTVOZZI-XE

Page 98—Vol. 10



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Suitable hedge or screen plants.
Plants with attractive fruits.
Resistant to salt spray.
Attractive bark or trunk.

Street trees.

SHRUBS (Key to Sizes)
Small — less than 1 m. Medium — 1 m to 3 m. Large — 3 m to 6 m.

<xs<cg

PLANT DESCRIPTIONS

Abrus precatorius

Vigorous stem twiner with pinnate leaves to 12 cm and elliptical leaflets
to 2 cm. Bears white to lilac-pink pea-flowers to 1 cm in sprays to 10 cm
long. Seed pods to 5 cm, opening to expose beautiful red and black seeds.

These seeds are deadily if swallowed, although they were used extens-
ively by Aboriginas for rnamentation. Distribution: northern areas of
Queensland, the Northern Territory and Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Grows readily, but should not be planted where seeds are
accessible to children. V. See North Australian Plants, page 50.

Aotus ericoides (Medium)

Variable heath-like shrub from 1-2 m high and 1 m or more across.
Bears yellow and red pea-flowers in terminal heads in spring. Distribution:
all States cxcept the Northern Territory.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Needs well-drained, sandy soil and full sun. Very attractive
in flower. Frost hardy. H.

Barklya syringifolia

Medium-sized tree to 20 m (less in exposed sites in cultivation). Leaves
are heart-shaped, to 10 cm long. Sprays of orange flowers appear in early
summer. Distribution: rainforests in Queensland and New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: A handsome plant in and out of flower. Used successfully
as a street tree in Ipswich, Queensland. Well-composted soil preferred, and
most aspects. Slow growing, but flowers at 2 m high. L. P. Y.

Brachysema aphyllum

Prostrate, leafless plant with strap-like stems overlapping to form
dense cover. Spread to 1 m. Large, scarlet pea-flowers borne along stems
appear in spring. Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From cuttings or scarified seed.

Cultivation: Excellent drainage and full sun required. Frost hardiness not
fully tested. J.

B. lanceolatum (Medium)

Spreading, rounded shrub, 1.5 m high and 3 m across. Bears red pea-
flowers with prominent keel in spring. Glaucous foliags. Distribution: Western
Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed or cuttings taken in mid to late summer.

Cultivation: Needs a sunny position in most well-drained soils. Will
respond well to pruning. C. H. L.

B. latifolium

Prostrate, trailing plant with orange-red psa-flowers appearing in spring.
Distribution: Western Australia. Colour plate on page 97.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Needs a sunny, well-drained position. Will cover 1 m2 in
two years, although often slow 1o start. A large-flowered, dark red form
is in cultivation in Melbourne. B. D. H.

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Page 100—Vol. 10



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B. praemorsum (Small)

Spreading shrub to 30 cm high by 1.5 m diameter with ovate leaves
to 6 cm. Dull red, large pea-flowers appear in spring. Distribution: Western
Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed or cuttings.

Cultivation: Good low shrub or ground cover. Needs a well-drained,
sunny position. C. H.

Bossiaea

Bossiaea is another endemic Australian genus and contains about 40
or 50 species. They are mostly small shrubs with yellow and brown pea-
flowers, and provide a significant part of the bacon and eggs’ element of
the Australian bush. Several, including the beautiful B. walkeri, have brilliant
red flowers. In some species the leaves are reduced to scales, except in
seedlings, and the stems are flattened into cladodes which carry on the
photosynthetic processes. These species are novel and particularly attractive
in the garden.

In general the genus is readily cultivated in a sunny, well-drained
position. Propagation is from scarified seed borne in flattened pods.

s

Bossiaea cinerea Photography by M. Fagg.

Bossiaea cinerea is in cultivation in Canberra. With a large upright standard the
flower of B. cinerea is typical of the genus.

Bossiaea dentata (above, opposite) Photography by M. Fagg.

Bossiaea dentata is rare in cultivation but photographed here in a Melbourne
garden. This species belongs to a small group of the genus with a flower having a
reduced standard and extended keel. B. dentata is one of several Bossiaea spp. with
opposite leaves (contrary to the key published in this issue).

Lotus corniculatus (below, opposite) Photography by C. Green.

Lotus corniculatus as a ground cover in the National Botanic Gardens. This species
occurs outside Australia also and opinion varies as to whether it was introduced from
European sources many years ago. The photograph illustrates an application for this
plant. Lotus is the vigorous growing yellow flowered plant.

Page 101—Vol. 10



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Bossiaea buxifolia (Small)

Low, spreading shrub to 30 cm high by 1 m diameter. Small, dark green
ovate leaves to 5 mm. Yellow and brown pea-flowers appear in spring.
Distribution: Victoria, New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory and
Queensland.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Likes well-drained soil in sunny or half-shaded position.
May be useful for hydro-seeding work on road batters. Has neat foliage.
G. J. L. (N).

B. dentata (Medium)

Erect shrub to 3 m high. Leaves minutely toothed, ovate to 1.5 cm.
Bears large orange-red flowers with prominent keel and reduced standard
in winter. Distribution: Western Australia. Colour plate on page 100.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Successfully cultivated in moderately shady position in
Melbourne. Needs sandy soil. Further trials necessary to establish optimum
conditions. Frost tolerance not tested. F.

B. heterophylla (Small)

Erect, open shrub to 1 m high. Stems are flattened, leaves variable,
ovate to near linear, to 3 cm long. Large yellow and brown pea-flowers
appear in autumn. Distribution: Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Well-drained sandy socil preferred. Needs full sun. Some
clones have particularly large flowers and these should be selected for
propagation. H. Colour plate in Issue 35, page 285.

B. lenticularis (Small)

Straggly shrub to 1 m. Round, leaves 7 mm diameter. Yellow and brown
pea-flowers appear in spring. Distribution: New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Grows well in sandstone soils of Sydney, where it is native.
Should be continuously tip-pruned to maintain its shape. Frost tolerance
not tested. K.

B. linophylla (Medium)

Rounded shrub to 1.7 m high by 1.3 m across. Leaves linear to 3 cm.
Bears yellow and red p=a-flowers in spring. Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Hardy, fast-growing species. Reasonable drainage and full
to half sun are recommended. Good smal!l screen plant. H. U.

B. rhombifolia (Small)

Open shrub to 70 cm high by 50 cm diameter with light green elliptical
leaves. Bears yellow pea-flowers in spring. Distribution: N.S.W. & Qld.

Propagation: From scarified seed, but will give some germination even
without treatment.

Cultivation: Needs well-drained soil and a sunny position. Often seeds
itself when conditions are optimum. Frost tolerance not tested. K.

B. scolopendria (Small)

Erect, leafless plant to 1 m. Bears yellow and brown pea-flowers in
spring. Distribution: New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Needs well-drained soil and a sunny position. Makes an
interesting feature plant. H. K. L. P.

B. ensata is very similar to B. scolopendria, but with narrow cladodes.
It has also been successfully cultivated.

B. walkeri (Medium)

Rounded bush to 2 m high by 2 m diameter. Leafless grey stems are
held erect. Bears large, brilliant red pea-flowers in spring. Distribution:
semi-arid areas of New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and W.A.

Propagation: From scarified seed or cuttings.

Cultivaticn: Needs well-drained soil and full sun. Keep rsasonably dry.
Spectacular slirub when grown well. H. L. P.

Page 102—Vol. 10



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Bossiaea walkeri

A leafless species
from semi-arid
parts of Australia.

Sketch by M. Fagg

B. webbii is in cultivation in Melbourne, but little is known of its long-
term performance. Has neat foliage and attractive, large flowers.

The following species have also been noted in cultivation: B. carinalis,
B. cinerea (colour plate on page 101) and B. obcordata. They are mainly of
interest to the collector.

Burtonia scabra (Medium)

Bushy shrub to 1.5 m with linear, heath-like leaves. Bears large mauve
pea-flowers in leaf axils in spring. Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified ssed. Colour plate on rear cover, page 148.

Cultivation: An outstanding plant, but very difficult to maintain. Well-
drained, well-mulched soil is suggested and part shade. H. P.

Canavalia maritima (Syn C. rosea)

Vigorous creeper with large, glabrous trifoliate leaves. Large pink pea-
flowers appear in summer. Distribution: Sea coasts from Sydney toc northern
Australia.

The vigour of this species may lend itself to sand-dune stabilisation
work on northern beaches. The large bean-like pods contain sseds which
were cooked and used as food by the Aborigines.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Grows in well-drained, sandy soil in sunny position. Single
plant will cover many square metres. Very frost tender. A. B. G. W.
Castanospermum australe Black bean

Large tree to 40 m with shiny dark green pinnate lsaves. Leaflets are
elliptical, to 12 cm. Yellow and red pea-flowers, 4 cm long, occur in spring.
Large boat-like pods to 25 cm. Distribution: rainforests of Queensland and
New South Wales. Colour plate in Issue No. 62, page 64.

Propagation: From seed.

Cultivation: Beautiful specimen tree for parks. Used as a street tree in
Sydney, but it is too big where telegraph wires are present. Good incoor
foliage plant. Most soils and aspects are suitable. Fruits can make interesting
ornaments. L. P. S. V.

Page 103—Vol. 10



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Chorizema Flame peas

A genus of about 18 species, all but one endemic to Western Australia,
the other, C. parviflorum, is native to New South Wales and Queensland.
They are shrubs or twiners and have masses of spectacular orange and/or
red pea-flowers in spring. They require a well-drained soi! and some shade
for best results.

Propagation is from scarified seed or cuttings, which do not give a
high percentage of success.

Chorizema diversifolium Photography by M. Fagg.

Chorizema diversifolium is a climbing species which appreciates shade. The photo-
graph illustrates the large wings which exceed the keel and are typical of the genus. A

shrubby species of Chorizema is on the front cover the flowers being very similar to
those above.

Chorizema aciculare (Small)

Straggling shrub to 50 cm. Curving, linear leaves with a pointed end.
Bears pea-flowers in spring. Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Requires well-drained, sandy soil and half shade. Good
rockery plant for coastal areas. F. J.

Mirbelia speciosa (upper plate, opposite) Photography by M. Fagg.

Mirbelia speciosa has been grown only as a potted specimen in Canberra. Calyx
lobes can be seen to be of approximately equal length.

Hovea lanceolata (lower plate opposite) Photography by M. Fagg.

Hovea lanceolata flowers in late winter or early spring. The purple flowers in axillary
clusters are typical of the genus.

Page 104—Vol. 10



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Page 105—Vol. 10



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C. cordatum (Small)

Erect or spreading plant to 80 cm, some forms spreading to 1.5 m.
Heart-shaped leaves to 4 cm. Bears orangz-red or yellow pea-flowers in
spring. Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Probably the best-known species in cultivation; several forms
are available. Useful as a rockery plant or to set amongst shrubs. A yellow-
flowered form is also in cultivation. Spectacular in flower. F. J. P.

C. diversifolium

Delicate stem twiner with narrow-elliptical leaves to 5 cm, rarely toothed.
Orange-red pea-flowers occur in spring. Distribution: Karri forests in W.A.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Very showy, non-vigorous, twining climber for shade or
semi-shade. Well-composted soil and good drainage required. Grows in
Canberra in a sheltered position. F. (H).

C. dicksonii. (Small)

Erect shrub to 50 cm. Pointed leaves to 1.5 cm. Orange and red pea-
flowers occur in spring. Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Needs well-drained soil with a good mulch in half shade.
Good rockery plant. /.

C. ilicifolium (Small)

Weak shrub with long, slender branches, tending to be supported by
surrounding shrubs. Branches may reach 2 m. Leaves holly-like, to 6 cm. Bears
red pea-flowers in spring. Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Grows well in well-drained soil with added compost and a
good mulch in half shade. J.

Clianthus formosus (Syn. C. dampieri, C. speciosus) Sturt’s desert pea

Trailing plant with glaucous, pinnate leaves on stems spreading to 2 m.
Bears pea-flowers of brilliant red with black boss on erect peduncles. Other
colour variants are known. It is the floral emblem of South Australia.
Distribution: arid parts of southern Australia, often in sandy soil over lime-
stone. Colour plate in No. 12 issue and No. 38 issue, page 49.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: One of our most famous wildflowers, Sturt’s desert pea has
been in cultivation for many years. Nevertheless, it is not an easy plant to
grow. It does not like disturbance, so seed should be sown in situ or in a
“jiffy pot”. At this stage special care should be taken to prevent snail damage.
A well-drained soil should be prepared and half a bucket of limestone chips
placed 15 cm below the surface. Some growers prefer to plant in pipes
standing on end to obtain perfect drainage. Seed should be sown in March
or April for spring flowering, but as the species is frost tender protection
must be given in cold areas. It is usually grown as an annual. It is a plant
for the larger rockery and must have full sun. Micrografting techniques have
been used at National Botanic Gardens, using the New Zeaiand C. puniceus
as a stock. As a result, plants have survived for a second season. Many
years ago in England Colutea arborescens was usad as a stock plant. J.

Crotalaria laburnifolia (Medium) Bird flower

Erect shrub to 3 m with light green, soft textured leaves. Yellow-green
pea-flowers to 6 cm with bird-like shape occur in summer. Distribution:
northern areas of Western Australia. Colour plate, issue 62, page 72.

Propagation: From scarified seed, also cuttings.

Cultivation: A hardy plant for frost-free areas. Suited to most soils and
a sunny position. Plants must be pruned hard after flowering to maintain
reasonable shape. C. cunninghamii has greyish, hairy leaves and similar
flowers. It is also in cultivation. Q.

Page 106—Vol. 10



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Daviesia

A large endemic genus of 70 or more species, Daviesia is distributed
over the whole of Australia, but the west has the greatest variety, with over
50 species. Usually with yellow and brown pea-flowers, they form part of
the ‘bacon and eggs’ component of the Australian bush. Some species
regenerate rapidly after fire and become dominant in certain areas. Several
interesting western species have bright red flowers, but they are rarely seen
in the eastern States. All are small to medium sized woody shrubs and are
characterised by triangular pods containing two hard coated seeds. In
cultivation all species require good drainage and full to half sun. They are
reasonably hardy plants, but occasionally seem to die quickly and without
warning. This may bz due to Phytophthora cinnamomi, as the root rot
fungus has been isolated from plants that have died in this manner. Propa-
gation is easy from scarified seed and, as growth of most species is reason-
ably fast, seed should be collected and retained for replacements.

D. epiphylla (Small) Staghorn bush
Strange, leafless plant to 1 m high, often spreading to 1.5 m in the
field. Cladodes are rigid, flat and lobed, reminiscent of a staghorn. The
plant is spiny. Large red pea-flowers appear in summer. Distribution: W.A.
Propagation: From scarified seed.
Cultivation: Reported to be growing well in King’s Park, Perth. Not known
in the eastern States. See note on genus, above. Frost tolerance not
known. L.

D. mimosoides (Medium)

Open, often pendulous, shrub to 2.5 m high by 2 m diameter with
lanceolate leaves to 10 cm. Sprays of yellow and brown pea-flowers occur
in spring. Distribution: Queensland, New South Wales, Australian Capital
Territory and Victoria.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. A hardy species, very cclourful for four
weeks in spring, but of little value for the rest of the year. F. H.

D. latifolia (Medium)

Open, straggly shrub to 3 m with ovate leaves to 8 cm. Yellow and
brown pea-flowers occur in spring. Distribution: Queensland, New South
Wales, Victoria and Tasmania.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Not of great horticultural value. Very
hardy. F.. H.

D. umbellulata (Medium)
Rounded bush to 1.5 m. Heart-shaped, pointed leaves to 2 cm. Bears
brown and yellow pea-flowers in spring. Distribution: N.S.W. and Queensland.
Propagation: From scarified seed.
Cultivation: See note on genus. Compact plant with neat foliage. F. H. L.

Derris involuta

Moderately vigorous climber with pinnate leaves with 9-13 elliptical
leaflets to 5 cm long. Bears sprays of white and pale pink pea-flowers to
1 cm long. Distribution: Queensland and New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Used for bank stabilisation in south Queensland. Hardy in
frost-free areas. Grows in sun or part shade. Roots used as a fish poison
and as a component in insecticides. G.

Desmodium varians

Weak-stemmed twiner. Trifoliate leaves with almost round leaflets to
2.5 cm. Bears pink pea-flowers for most of the year. Distribution: Queensland,
N.S.W. Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, Tasmania and New Caledonia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Not showy, but may be grown with interest trailing among
other shrubs. Hardy in sheltered situations. H.

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Dillwynia

Dillwynia, like Daviesia, is yet another genus of ‘bacon and eggs’ pea-
flowers. With 20 or more species, it is also an endemic Australian genus.
Several species have been brought into cultivation, but again, like Daviesia,
may succumb very rapidly, probably due to Phytophthora infection. They
require good drainage, preferably a sandy soil, well mulched and about half
shade. Propagation is by scarified seed.

D. floribunda (Medium)

Open shrub to 1.5 m high by 1 m diameter with near terete leaves to
2 cm. Bears pea-flowers, mostly yellow, in upper leaf axils in late winter
and spring. Distribution Queensland and New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed. Colour plate in issue 35, page 296.

Cultivation: See note on genus, above. Pruning after flowering is neces-
sary. Very colourful in flower. Well-drained sand seems essential. F. H.

D. retorta (Medium) (Syn. D. ericifolia).

Rounded or upright shrub to 2 m with heath-like foliage. Bears red and
yellow pea-flowers in profusion in spring. Distribution: Queensland, New
South Wales, Australian Capital Territory and Victoria.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus, above. Colourful in flower. F. H.

D. glaberrima, D. hispida, D. oreodoxa and D. sericea are all in
cultivation and may be handled similarly.

Entada phaseoloides (Syn. E. scandens) Matchbox-bean

Very vigorous climber, forming lianes. Large trifoliate leaves. Bears
sprays of small white pea-flowers and enormous flattened pods to 1 m
with shiny dark brown seeds to 8 cm diameter. Distribution: Queensland
rainforests.

Propagation: From nicked seed.

Cultivation: Extra vigorous climber suitable only for very large pergolas,
etc. Grown mainly for interesting fruits. Very frost tender. Grows strongly in
Brisbane. U. V.

Eutaxia

Eutaxia is a small shrub genus of pea-flowers with eight species, all
Western Australian endemics except E. microphylla, which extends across
the whole of the continent. They are mostly small, woody shrubs bearing
yellow and red flowers in spring. They require good drainage and a sunny
situation. Propagation is by cuttings or scarified seed.

E. microphylla (Small)
Two forms exist.

1. Prostrate, spreading plant forming tight mat to 1.5 m diameter with
heath-like leaves to 5 mm.

2. Much-branched shrub to 1 m high by 1 m diameter. Slightly broader
leaves to 1 cm. Flowers of both forms are yellow pea-flowers with red
centres and are profuse in spring. Distribution: Western Australia, South
Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, New South Wales and Queensland.

Propagation: From cuttings or scarified seed.

Cultivation: The prostrate form is an excellent ground cover or spreading
rockery plant for a well-drained sunny position. Foliage is neat. The shrubby
form is a useful shrub, again requiring good drainage and full sun. 1. A. B.
H. J. 2. H.

Eutaxia cuneata (opposite) Photography by M. Fagg.

Eutaxia cuneata is a spreading shrub as shown opposite growing at the National
Botanic Gardens. The lower plate shows the characteristic crowded flowers of the genus
and the decussate leaf arrangement.

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E. obovata (Small)

Rounded shrubs to 1 m high by 60 cm across with lanceolate leaves
to 2 cm in four rows. Flowers are yellow with a red keel and appear in
spring. Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: Scarified seed preferred.

Cultivation: Shrub has performed well in Sydney and Canberra. Hardy
in moist soils, but good drainage recommended. Will accept a little shade.
Neat shrub. E. cuneata is also in cultivation. H. L.

Erythrina vespertilio Bat’s wing coral tree
Deciduous tree to 25 m. Corky bark with thorns. Leaves are trifoliate;
leaflets variable, mostly two-lobed. Red pea-flowers to 4 cm appear when
leaves are absent. Pod to 10 cm. Distribution: open forest country in
Queensland, New South Wales, the Northern Territory and Western Australia.
Propagation: From scarified seed.
Cultivation: Grows well in coastal areas as well as inland. Frost tender
on tablelands. Grows in most soils. Full sun required. P.
E. phlebocarpa from north Queensland is also in cultivation in Brisbane.

Gastrolobium Poison peas

With over 40 species, Gastrolobium forms an interesting part of the
Western Australian flora. Most are endemic to Western Australia. The
exceptions, G. elachistum from South Australia and G. grandiflorum from
northern Australia, including Queensland, are not known in cultivation.
Flowers and foliage of many species are attractive, but, in general, they
have been avoided in cultivation, probably because of the poisonous com-
ponents in their foliage. The pea-flowers are yellow and red, orange or
all red and are usually well displayed. Most species will require good
drainage and a warm, sunny position. Propagation is by scarified seed.

G. callistachys (Medium) Rock poison
Erect shrub to 2 m with linear leaves to 5 cm. Long sprays pea-flowers,
yellow-orange, occur in spring. Distribution: Western Australia.
Propagation: From scarified seed.
Cultivation: Well-drained, sunny position required. Has adapted well to
cultivation. H.

G. tricuspidatum (Small)

Prostrate plant, spreading to 60 cm. Light green leaves with three points.
Yellow pea-flowers with brown centre occur in spring. Distribution: Western
Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Best grown as a rockery plant. Good drainage essential,
but tends to die out in centre after two or three years. Frost tolerance not
tested. J.

G. truncatum (Small)

Prostrate plant spreading to 50 cm. Leaves almost round with undulate
margins, 1.5 cm long. Pea-flowers not seen by author. Distribution: Western
Australia.

Propagation: From cuttings or scarified seed.

Cultivation: Recently introduced by a Melbourne nursery. Appears to
have potential as a rockery plant or small ground cover plant. Good drainage
and full sun recommended. D .J.

Glycine clandestina

Non-vigorous twining plant with trifoliate leaves with variably shaped
leaflets. Sprays of small bluish pea-flowers, rarely pink, occur most of the
year. Distribution: all States.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Of little horticultural value. Adds some interest, as it climbs
through other plants. H.

G. tabacina is very similar, varying mainly in leaf structure. It is also
in cultivation.

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Erythrina vespertilio Sketch by M. Fagg.
The leaves are not present at flowering, but the drawing shows variation in leaf
form which may occur.

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Gompholobium

An endemic Australian genus with about 25 species, Gompholobium
spp. are mainly small, woody shrubs with sizeable yellow or greenish
pea-flowers, mostly borne in spring. They are not easy to cultivate, although
most are showy enough to warrant further investigation. They seem to
demand perfect drainage and reasonably dry conditions with some overhead
shade. Propagation is easy from scarified seed, although seed is often
difficult to obtain because of insect damage. See page 98.

G. grandiflorum (Small)

Erect, often spindly, shrub to 1 m and narrow, digitate leaves with
three leaflets 2.5 cm long. Yellow pea-flowers, standard 2.5 cm, occur in
spring. Distribution: New South Wales. Colour plate, issue 18, page 185.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Has been successfully cultivated in
Sydney and Canberra. Very showy in flower. Needs half shade. F. H.

G. latifolium (Small)

Erect shrub to 1 m. Digitate leaves, much wider than G. grandiflorum,
with three leaflets to 5 cm. Largest flowers of the genus. Bears yellow pea-
flowers, a standard 3 cm long, in spring. Distribution: Queensland, New
South Wales and Victoria.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Very showy shrub. F. H. P.

Gompholobium polymorphum

Slender semi-twining climber, mostly relying on other shrubs for support.
Leaves with five linear leaflets arising from stem. Bears large pea-flowers
to 2 cm diameter, orange to pinkish-red, in spring to early summer.
Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Not common in cultivation. Useful plant for rockery, growing
amongst other shrubs. Requires good drainage, semi-shade. Not tested for
frost tolerance.

G. huegelii is also in cultivation. See colour plate on page 96.

Goodia

Goodia is a small gsnus of three species, all Australian. They are
woody shrubs with yellow pea-flowers and very hardy in cultivation. They
seem to adapt to most soils and most aspects. Propagation is from scarified
seed, or in the case of G. /otifolia by root suckers.

G. lotifolia (Medium)

Vigorous, suckering plant to 2.5 m high by 3 m and more wide with
trifoliate, light green leaves. Leaflets ovats, 1.5 cm long. Bears yellow
flowers in spring. Distribution: Queensland, New South Wales, Australian
Capital Territory, Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed or by division of root suckers.

Cultivation: Very hardy. Thrives in most situations. May be too vigorous
in a smali garden. Useful, fast-growing screen plant. G. H. U.

G. pubescens (Small) (Syn. G. lotifolia var. pubescens)

Small, rounded shrub to 1 m high by 1 m diameter. Leaves are tri-
foliate, slightly hairy. Leaflets are ovate, to 1.5 cm. Yellow flowers appear
in spring and summer. Distribution: Victoria and Tasmania.

Botanists do not agree as to the correct nomenclature of this taxon
and both of the above names will be seen in literature.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Much more compact than G. lotifolia. May seed itself around
the garden. Useful small shrub which accepts most soils and aspects. H.

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Hardenbergia comptoniana

Moderately vigorous twining climber with trifoliate leaves with generally
oblong leaflets to 6 cm. Sprays of purplish-blue pea-flowers occur in spring.
Distribution: Western Australia. Colour plate in issue 33, pags 200.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Well-known in cultivation. Not as dark in colour as its eastern
counterpart, H. violacea. Hardy in well-drained, semi-shaded position. Excellent
for trellis or smaller pergola. F. H. P.

Hardenbergia violacea (Syn. H. monophylla) False sarsaparilla

Trailing plant covering at least 1 square metre. Flowers are generally
purple, but white, pink and pale mauve shades are known. Distribution:
South Australia and eastern Australia (coast and tablelands).

Common name refers to the superficial likeness of its foliage to Smilax
glyciphylla. This shrub is variable in form. Upright clones are unsuitable
for ground-cover work. The frost rating is bracksted, as there may be some
doubt as to the hardiness of coastal and northern clones. Tablelands
collections are frost hardy.

Propagation: From scarified seed, or cuttings to preserve clonal proper-
ties.

Cultivation: Grows in well-drained soil in sun or ssmi-shade. Density of
growth can vary. A. (H).

Hovea

Hovea is a small genus, of 12 species, all endemic to Australia,
occurring in both east and west. They are generally small to medium, open,
woody shrubs with masses of purple pza-flowers in spring. Albino forms of
most species are known. In cultivation they require excellent drainage and
some overhead shade. A cool root run, supplied by a heavy mulch or
strategically placed sandstone slabs, is also desirable. Propagation is easiest
from scarified seed.

H. acutifolia (Medium)

Erect, bushy shrub to 1.5 m high by 1 m across. Leaves are elliptical
to 8 cm. Purple pea-flowers occur in late winter to early spring. Distribution:
Queensland and New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. This fine shrub was seen thriving in a
cool, shaded situation against a house in Brisbane. Frost tolerance not
tested. F. L.

H. chorizemifolia (Small)

Erect, sparsely branched plant to 60 cm, with ovate, holly-like lzaves
to 3 cm. Deep purple pea-flowers occur in spring. Distribution: W.A.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Rare in cultivation. Has been success-
fully grown in eastern States in conditions described. F. H. K.

H. elliptica (Medium)

Erect, open shrub to 3 m high (sometimes taller) by 2 m across, with
elliptical leaves to 8 cm. Purple pea-flowers occur in spring. Distribution:
Karri forests of Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Attractive in flower. Flowering period
only about three weeks. F. H.

H. lanceolata (Medium)

Open shrub to 2 m high by 1 m across. Leaves are oblong to 6 cm.
Blue pea-flowers occur in late winter to spring. Distribution: Queensland
and New South Wales. Colour plate on page 105.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Sse note on genus. H.

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Hovea linearis (Small)

Straggly little shrub with weak branches from base of plant, often
tending to lie flat unless supported by other plants. Bears purple pea-flowers
in leaf axils in early spring. Distribution: the coast and ranges of central
New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Perfectly drained sandy soil is essential. Needs full sun
or part shade. F. H. I. J.

H. longifolia (Medium)

Erect, open shrub to 2 m high by 1 m across and narrow leaves to
7 cm. Mauve-blue pea-flowers are produced in late winter and early spring.
Distribution: Queensland, N.S.W., Victoria, Tasmania and South Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. One of the hardiest members of the
genus. F. H.

H. pungens (Small)

Erect, open shrub to 1 m high by 1 m across (often taller in the field).
Prickly, linear leaves to 2 cm. Bright purple pea-flowers occur in winter.
Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. H.

H. trisperma (Small)

Small, open, spreading plant to 60 cm by 1 m wide. Leaves are
variable, linear to elliptical, to 7 cm long. Purple pea-flowers occur in
winter. Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Not commonly cultivated in the eastern
States. Suitable for a rockery or among other shrubs. F. H. K.

Indigofera australis (Medium)

Open, spreading or erect plant to 2 m high by 2 m across, occasionally
sparsely branched. Pinnate leaves are bluish-green. Elliptical leaflets grow
to 2.5 cm. Sprays of purple, or rarely white, pea-flowers appear in spring.
Distribution: all States. Colour plate on page 140.

Propagation: From scarified seed. Cuttings are also successful where
flower colour needs to be reproduced.

Cultivation: Although a common shrub in the field, this species is not
grown as frequently as it deserves. It is hardy and well-shaped when
regularly pruned from an early age. It will grow in most soils except very
wet soils and will flower well in shade or sun. Very frost hardy. F. G. H.

I. australis var. signata (Medium)

Similar to /. australis, but leaves are much more crowded, with small
obcordate leaflets and shorter flower stems. Distribution: Queensland, New
South Wales and Victoria.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: As for I. australis, but foliage is more attractive. F. G. H. L.

I. leucotricha (Small)

Low, spreading shrub with leaves and branches covered with dense
white hairs. Pinnate leaves with 9-15 obovate leaflets to 1 cm. Purplish
pea-flowers. Distribution: dry areas of New South Wales, South Australia
and the Northern Territory.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Attractive foliage plant. Not fully tested in cultivation, as
only young plants have been seen. Should thrive in dry, warm areas. L.

Jacksonia scoparia (Large)

Shrub, often with tree-like form, to 4 m high by 2 m across. Leafless
branches, usually pendulous. Profuse yellow and red pea-flowers occur in
spring. Distribution: New South Wales and Queensland.

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Propagation: From scarified seed.
Cultivation: A handsome foliage plant, attractive in flower. Long-lived
in well-drained soil in sun or semi-shade., H. L. P.

J. sericea

Prostrate, woody, leafless plant with small orange pea-flowers most
of the year. Dense habit despite lack of leaves. Generally glaucous appear-
ance. Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Rarely seen in the eastern States, this species has performed
well in sand at King’s Park, Perth, Western Australia. Plant at 1 m centres,
A. B.

Kennedia beckxiana

Vigorous climber. Bears large, orange-red pea-flowers, well displayed.
Distribution: Western Australia.

Although a climber, on banks free of trees and shrubs, it will trail and
form an excellent ground cover.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Needs a sunny position and ample watering. Plant at 3 m
centres. A.

K. coccinea

Vigorous climber with masses of small, orange-red pea-fiowers in spring.
A very showy species. Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Will grow in a well-drained position in sun or partial shade.
Good ground cover in the absence of trees. Plant at 2 m centres. A.

K. eximia

Prostrate trailing plant less vigorous than former species. Bears red
flowers in spring. Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Needs a well-drained, sunny position. Plant at 1 m centres
for dense cover. A. B.

Kennedia glabrata

Probably the least vigorous of the genus. Prostrate trailer with small,
bright green trifoliate leaves and small orange-red flowers, well displayed.
Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Good drainage is important. Sunny position. Plant at 50 cm
centres. D.

K. macrophylla

Very vigorous climbing plant with large, glabrous, light green, trifoliate
leaves. Bears dull red pea-flowers in spring and summer. Distribution:
Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Most soils and aspects are satisfactory, but heavy frosts
must be avoided. Plant at 3 m centres. A.

K. microphylla

Tight, mat-forming plant spreading to 1 m. Small trifoliate leaves. Bears
brick-red pea-flowers in winter and spring. Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Very neat ground cover or rockery plant. Good drainage
and full sun preferred. Not tested for frost tolerance. D. J.

K. nigricans

Very vigorous climber with large, dark green trifoliate leaves. Unusual
black and yellow flowers. Distribution: Western Australia.

This is the most vigorous species of the genus Kennedia and probably
one of the most rampant plants of southern Australia. It should be used
for quick cover of unsightly scars, fences or banks.

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Propagation: From scarified seed. Colour plate, issue 50, page 240.

Cultivation: Most situations are satisfactory provided the plant has
room to move. Plant at 5-6 m centres, avoiding heavy frosts. A.

K. procurrens

This rare plant occurs in south-western Queensland and there is some
doubt as to whether the plant reported in cultivation is this species or
K. prorepens. Both have purple pea-flowers and both inhabit dry country.
A. B.

K. prorepens

Trailing plant with dull green leaves, prominently veined and slightly
hairy. Bears purple flowers on long, erect peduncles. Distribution: Western
Australia and possibly South Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Needs a well-drained, dry, sunny position. Often a sparse
grower. Plant at 1 m centres. A. B.

K. prostrata Scarlet runner, running postman

Variable in vigour and form, but always prostrate. Bears scarlet flowers
in spring and early summer. Distribution: temperate areas of Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Well-drained position preferred, but quite adaptable.
Vigorous forms should be planted at 1.5 m centres. A. B.

K. retrorsa

Vigorous climbing plant with dark green leaves and purple pea-flowers.
Distribution: New South Wales.

This is the only Kennedia sp. that has proved completely frost hardy
in Canberra. It is a rare plant in the field, having been rediscovered only
in recent years.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Most situations are satisfactory. Plant at 4 m centres. A. H.
K. rubicunda

Vigorous climbing plant with dark green leaves and large dull red
flowers. Distribution: Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Most positions are suitable. Plant at 3 m centres. A.

K. stirlingii

Prostrate plant forming dense cover 1-2 m diameter. Bears red flowers.
Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Some shade and reasonable drainage preferred. A. B.
Lonchocarpus blackii

Moderately vigorous, semi-deciduous climber, with pinnate leaves with
ovate leaflets to 4 cm. Dark purple pea-flowers in branching sprays occur
in late spring to early summer as new leaves are appearing. Distribution:
Queensland and New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Has been used to stabilise road batters in"south-east Queens-
land. Hardy in warm, sunny situations. G.

Lotus australis (Small)

Rounded shrub, 50 cm in diameter, with trifoliate leaves. Pea-flowers
are usually an uncommon pale pink with no tinge of mauve. Distribution:
temperate Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Needs full sun and reasonable drainage. Often short-lived
in cultivation, three to four years being the normal life span. Resistant to
salt spray. H. J. W.

L. corniculatus

Vigorous spreading plant to 20 cm high, with light green leaves. Bears
yellow pea-flowers for most of the year. Distribution: Widespread in Australia,
also New Zealand and South-East Asia. Colour plate, page 100.

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This plant may have been introduced from Europe many years ago.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Likes most locations, provided ample water is available.
Plant at 1 m centres. A. B. H.

Milletia megasperma Native wistaria

Very vigorous climber forming lianas in nature. Pinnate leaves with
7-13 glossy elliptical leaflets to 9 cm. Bears large white to purple pea-
flowers in terminal sprays to 15 cm. Distribution: rainforests in Queensland
and New South Wales. Colour plate on page 133.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Excellent climber for covering a pergola, or fence in milder
climates. Seen growing well near Toowoomba, Queensland, so reasonable
frost levels are tolerated. Very showy. L. P.

Mirbelia

An endemic genus of pea-flowers, the genus Mirbelia includes about
24 species. Not many are in cultivation, although most have horticultural
potential. They vary in size from low, procumbent shrubs to the erect
M. dilatata, which may reach 3 m. Flower colour varies from orange-yellow to
purple. In general the genus is not easy in cultivation, most species requiring
particularly good drainage. A semi-shaded situation seems to be best suited
to the few species tried. Propagation is usually by scarified seed, but cuttings
also are generally successful.

M. dilatata (Medium)

Erect, almost columnar, shrub to 3 m high by 70 cm across. Prickly,
lobed leaves to 2.5 cm. Large, mauve-purple pea-flowers occur in spring.
Distribution: Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Well-mulched, well-drained position in full sun or part shade
is most suitable. Fast growing, but often short-lived in cultivation. Frost
resistance not fully tested. L.

M. oxyloboides (Medium)

Variable shrub to 1 m high, slightly grey, oblong leaves to 1 cm.
Orange-yellow pea-flowers occur in late spring and early summer. Distribution:
New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory and Victoria.

Propagation: From scarified seed or cuttings.

Cultivation: Well-drained, semi-shaded situation is preferred. One of
the hardiest Mirbelia spp. F. H.

M. rubiifolia (Small) (Syn. M. reticulata)

Straggly shrub less than 50 cm high, but with branches occasionally
spreading to 80 cm. Whorls of small (3 cm) lanceolate leaves are sharply
pointed with reticulate veining. Magenta pea-flowers appear in spring.
Distribution: sandstone areas around Sydney, New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Usually short-lived in cultivation. Needs well-drained sandy
soil, haif shade, and a mulch of sandstone chips. F. J.

M. speciosa (Small) from New South Wales has been successfully grown
as a potted plant in Canberra. Colour plate on page 105.

Mucuna gigantea

Very vigorous twining climber forming lianas in far north. Trifoliate
leaves with ovate-lanceolate leaflets to 10 cm. Bears long, pendant sprays,
to 30 cm, of large green pea-flowers. Distribution: rainforests in Queensland,
New South Wales and the Northern Territory.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Fast-growing vine for fence or large pergola in warm areas.
Flowering habit attractive. Well-composted soil and ample moisture required.
Fruits covered with irritating hairs. Seeds are edible. L. U.

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Oxylobium

An endemic Australian genus of about 30 spp., Oxylobium spp. are woody
plants varying from prostrate to medium-sized trees. Many are reported to
be toxic to stock and are declared noxious weeds in some States. They
are pea-flowers with yellow or yellow and red blooms, mostly borne in
spring. Some have interesting foliage. In cultivation they require excellent
drainage and full sun with a good mulch applied to maintain a cool root
run. Propagation is by scarified seed, but some success has also been
obtained from cuttings.

O. cuneatum (Small) (Syn. Nemcia cuneata)

Rounded shrub to 1 m high (or less) by 60 cm across. Leaves have a
blunt end to 2 cm. Bears orange-red pea-flowers. Distribution: Western
Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. H.

O. ellipticum (Small to Medium)

Variable shrub, prostrate to upright, to 2 m, with dark green elliptical
leaves to 2 cm. Bears profuse yellow pea-flowers in spring to summer.
Distribution: Queensland, N.S.W., A.C.T., Victoria and Tasmania.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Outstanding shrub. Low growing alpine
forms are particularly attractive. Requires good drainage and will tolerate
some shade. H. P.

O. ilicifolium (Medium)

Erect, often straggly, shrub to 2 m high by 1 m across. Rigid, holly-like
leaves to 4 cm. Bears yellow-orange pea-flowers in spring. Distribution:
Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. Colour plate on page 136.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Often difficult to maintain. Interesting
foliage. H. L.

O. lanceolatum (Medium)

Shrub to 2 m high by 1 m across. (Taller tree form is also known.)
Leaves lanceolate to 12 cm (cften less) in whorls of three. Flowers are
orange-yellow and occur in spring and summer. Distribution: W.A.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: A fast growing shrub. See note on genus. H. U.

Oxylobium linearifolium (Large)
Pendulous shrub to 5 m high by 4 m across with linear leaves to 6 cm.
Bears yellow and red pea-flowers in spring. Distribution: Western Australia.
Propagation: From scarified seed.
Cultivation: See note on genus. Handsome habit. H. L.

O. parviflorum (Small)
Rounded shrub to 1 m high by 60 cm across, with oblong leaves to 5
cm. Yellow and red pea-flowers in winter and spring. Distribution: W.A.
Propagation: From scarified seed. Cuttings also successful.
Cultivation: See note on genus. H.

O. robustum (Small)

Rounded, open shrub to 1 m high by 1 m across, with broad linear
leaves to 5 cm. Yellow pea-flowers occur in spring and early summer.
Distribution: Queensland and New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. H.

0. scandens

Prostrate, trailing plant with elliptic leaves to 5 cm. Bears orange pea-
flowers. Distribution: New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Prefers heavy soils, full sun. Plant at 1 m centres. A. B. D.

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Platylobium

Platylobium is a small genus of four species of pea-flower, related to
Bossiaea and all occurring in eastern Australia. They are small to medium-
sized shrubs, with good-sized yellow and red flowers. Only two of the
species are known to be in cultivation, and these are hardy in most soils

and aspects, provided that they are not too wet. Propagation is by scarified
seed.

P. formosum (Small)

Spreading or upright shrub to 1 m high (occasionally taller), with
heart-shaped leaves to 5 cm. Yellow and red pea-flowers occur in spring.
Distribution: Queensland, New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory,
Victoria and Tasmania. Colour plate on page 137.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Hardy plant. Common in cultivation.
’S:ome low growing, spreading forms are known and should be encouraged.
. H.

P. obtusangulum (Small)

Slender shrub spreading or erect, to 1 m high. Leaves are variable,
more or less triangular or arrow-shaped with one or three sharp points. Yellow
and red pea-flowers occur in spring. Distribution: Victoria, Tasmania and
South Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Should be kept reasonably dry. Interest-
ing foliage. H. L.

Psoralea adscendens (Small)

Spreading shrub 1 m or more across and up to 60 cm high. Sprays of
purple pea-flowers displayed well against deep green trifoliate leaves in late
spring. Distribution: higher country in New South Wales, Victoria and
Australian Capital Territory, with isolated occurrences in South Australia
and Tasmania.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Needs a sunny position with reasonable drainage. H. J. K.

Pultenaea Bacon and eggs

Pultenaea, with about 100 species, is the largest genus of the Australian
endemic pea-flowers. Its members vary from prostrate to tall, woody shrubs
and include some diverse foliage types. Flowers are usually yellow or yellow
and red, and in many species are crowded into dense terminal heads. They
mostly make handsome horticultural subjects and are not grown as much
as they deserve. In cultivation good drainage is important and a soil rich
in leaf litter is an advantags. Most will accept full sun or partial shade.
Flowering usually lasts for a month or six weeks in spring, but in many
species the foliage provides year-round interest. Propagation is by scarified
seed.

P. altissima (Medium)

Erect shrub to 2 m high by 1.5 m across. Leaves are narrow-obovate,
to 1 cm. Bears yellow pea-flowers in spring. Distribution: New South Wales
and Victoria.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Some shade appreciated. Neat foliage.
F. H. L.

P. baeuerlenii (Small)

Low, woolly shrub to 60 cm. Terete leaves to 1.5 cm. Yellow and red
pea-flowers crowded at ends of branches occur in late spring. Distribution:
southern tablelands of New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus, Rarely seen in cultivation. H.

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@@@ 28 @@@



P. blakelyi (Medium)

Slender shrub to 2 m high. Leaves oblong to 3 cm. Bears yellow pea-
flowers in spring. Distribution: New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Should be pruned annually after
flowering. H.

P. cunninghamii (Small)

Erect or rarely prostrate plant. Upright form rarely exceeds 1 m in
cultivation, often taller in the field. It has an open habit. Leaves are light
green, rounded, with a pointed tip, 1.2 cm long. Orange-red pea-flowers
occur in spring. Distribution: Queensland, New South Wales, Australian
Capital Territory and Victoria.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Prostrate form is in cultivation In
Melbourne and shows promise. Attractive shrub. H. L.

P. daphnoides (Medium)

Erect shrub to 3 m high by 1.5 m across with dark green leaves,
obovate, with a flattened end. Yellow and red pea-flowers in terminal heads
appear in spring. Distribution: Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria,
Tasmania, South Australia and New Zealand.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. One of the commonest Pultenaea spp.
Will accept reasonable shade. F. H.

P. empetrifolia (Small)

Low spreading shrub to 40 cm high by 50 cm across, with terete leaves
to 1 cm. Orange-red pea-flowers in heads occur in spring. Distribution:
Western Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. H.

P. euchila (Medium)

Erect shrub to 3 m high by 1.5 m across. Leaves are narrow-oblong,
to 3 cm, without a point at the end. Yellow pea-flowers occur in spring.
Distribution: Queensland and New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Reasonably hardy species. H.

P. ferruginea (Small)
Erect shrub to 1 m high by 60 cm across. Leaves are oblong, to 7 mm.
Yellow axillary pea-flowers occur in spring. Distribution: New South Wales.
Propagation: From scarified seed.
Cultivation: See note on genus. H.

P. flexilis (Large)

Erect shrub to 4 m high by 2 m across. Leaves are narrow-oblong to
2 cm. Profuse yellow and red pea-flowers occur In spring. Distribution:
Queensland and New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Good background shrub. Likes some
shade. F. H.

P. incurvata (Small)

Erect, open, hairy shrub to 1 m high by 40 cm across. Leaves are linear,
to 1 em, curving up towards the stem. Yellow and red pea-flowers in heads
occur in spring and summer. Distribution: the Blue Mountains, N.S.W.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Although this plant grows in wet places,
it seems to prefer reasonable drainage in cultivation. H.

P. largiflorens (Small)

Stiff, sprawling plant to 1 m high by 1.5 m across. Light green leaves,
obovate, to 1 cm, often two-lobed at the end. Bears yellow and red pea-
flowers in axillary clusters in spring. Distribution: N.S.W., Victoria & S.A.

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@@@ 29 @@@



Propagation: From scarified seed.
Cultivation: See note on genus. H.

P. microphylla (Small)

Prostrate or erect plant to 1 m high. Leaves are narrow-obovate, to 8
mm, with a blunt end. Bears yellow and red pea-flowers in upper axils in
spring. Distribution: Queensland and New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Prostrate forms make useful ground
covers in perfectly drained situations. (A) (B) H.

P. obovata (Medium)

Bushy shrub to 2 m high by 1.5 m across. Leaves spathulate, to 9 mm.
Bears vyellow pea-flowers in spring. Distribution: near Guyra, New South
Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. One of the hardiest species in cultivation.
Neat, fresh green foliage. Enjoys some shade. F. H. L.

P. pedunculata

Prostrate, trailing plant with mid-green leaves and yellow-orange pea-
flowers in spring. Distribution: South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales
and Tasmania.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Often unreliable in cultivation. Well-drained soil in sun or
part shade is recommended. Plant at 60 cm centres. D. H. J.

P. polifolia (Small)

Weak, spreading, open shrub to 30 cm high by 1 m across. Leaves are
narrow-elliptical, to 3 cm. Bears yellow and red pea-flowers in spring.
Distribution: Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. Best suited for a rockery or wall where
branches hang down. Long-lived in cultivation. Full sun is satisfactory. H. J.

P. procumbens (Small)

Common undershrub of dry sclerophyll habitats. Low bush 30 cm high
by 1 m across. Leaves are small, pointed and slightly hairy. Yellow and brown
pea-flowers occur in spring. Distribution: high country in New South Wales,
Australian Capital Territory and Victoria.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Well-drained soil with some shade is required. F. H. J.

P. rigida (Small)
Erect, stiff shrub to 1 m high. Leaves are lanceolate, to 1 cm. Bears
axillary, yellow and red pea-flowers in spring. Distribution: South Australia.
Propagation: From scarified seed.
Cultivation: See note on genus. H.

Pultenaea sp. (Diamond head)

Woody, prostrate shrub spreading to 1.5 m. Elliptical leaves are small,
light green and slightly hairy. Flowers are yellow. Distribution: Collections
were made by the author at Diamond Head on the mid-north coast of New
South Wales in 1966. The species probably occurs over a wider area, but
this has not been checked.

Propagation: From cuttings and probably also scarified seed.

Cultivation: Needs a well-drained, sunny position. D. H. W.

Pultenaea stipularis (Small)

Erect, sparsely branched shrub to 1 m high by 60 cm across. Soft,
pine-like leaves to 4 cm. Dense terminal heads of yellow pea-flowers occur
in spring. Distribution: New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. One of the best Pultenaea spp. Attractive
foliage. Hardy in well-drained, semi-shaded locations. F. H. L. P.

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@@@ 30 @@@



P. subalpina (Small)
Erect shrub to 1 m high by 70 cm across. Leaves terete, to 2 cm. Pink
pea-flowers occur in spring. Distribution: the Grampians, Victoria.
Propagation: From scarified seed. Also has been grown from cuttings.
Cultivation: See note on genus. This rare shrub is difficult to maintain
in cultivation. Pink flowers are spectacular. H.

P. subspicata (Small)

Low spreading shrub to 80 cm high by 1 m across. Leaves are linear,
to 1 cm. Bears yellow anc red pea-flowers in terminal heads in spring.
Distribution: New South Wales, Australian Capital Territory and Victoria.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. H.

P. subternata (Small)

Low shrub with hairy branches. Leaves are ovate, to 8 mm, pointed
and hairy. Yellow-brown pea-flowers appear in upper leaf axils in spring.
Distribution: New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Very useful rockery plant. Needs good drainage, full sun
or part shade. Not fully tested for frost tolerance.

P. villosa (Medium)

Pendulous, spreading shrub to 1.3 m high by 2 m across. Leaves halry,
narrow-oblong, to 6 mm. Bears yellow and red pea-flowers axillary, in
spring. Distribution: Queensland and New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: See note on genus. A hardy plant with very attractive habit.
Locks well in well-drained soil at pool edge. H. L. P.

Sophora tomentosa (Medium)

Open shrub to 3 m high (sometimes taller) by 1.5 m across, with
pinnate leaves with ovate leaflets, each 2.5 cm long. Both are silvery-grey.
Bears terminal sprays of lemon-yellow pea-flowers followed by long pods
to 15 cm, constricted between seeds. Distribution: Sea coasts of the
Northern Territory, Queensland and New South Wales.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: A hardy plant for frost-free areas. Excellent specimen plant
for coastal areas of Sydney and further north. Needs good drainage and a
warm location and is resistant to salt spray. L. P. V. W.

Sphaerolobium vimineum (Small)

Erect, leafless shrub to 60 cm high by 60 cm across. Profuse yellow
and red or orange and red pea-flowers are borne along the stems in spring.
Distribution: heathland in temperate regions of Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed, but cuttings will strike.

Cultivation: Excellent drainage and full to half sun are required. Not easy
to maintain. A mulch of sandstone slabs may be effective. H.

Swainsona

About 50 Swainsona spp. are recognised, all endemic, mostly in inland
areas. They are semi-herbaceous perennials, or sometimes annuals, with
very colourful pea-flowers. They are easy to grow in warm, dry areas, only
a few being frost hardy. The perennials should be cut back to ground level
each winter to make way for a new flush of spring growth and the display
of flowers. Propagation is by scarified seed.

S. burkittii (Small)

Spreading perennial to 30 cm high by 60 cm across, with woolly pinnate
leaves. Spikes of deep purplish-red flowers, very dark, occur in spring.
Distribution: New South Wales and South Australia.

Propagation: From scarified seed or cuttings (no mist).

Cultivation: See note on genus. Very frost tender. Interesting plant prob-
ably best suited to the dry, sunny rockery. J.

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@@@ 31 @@@



S. galegifolia (Small) Darling pea
Perennial to 1 m with stems of pinnate leaves. Bears sprays of large
pea-flowers in spring. Flower colour varies from white to deep red, with
mauve-pink the most common. Distribution: semi-arid parts of South Aus-
tralia, New South Wales and Queensland. Colour plate on page 141.
Propagation: From scarified seed.
Cultivation: Plant in a sunny position in all but very wet soils. Cut back
old stems in late winter. H. K.

S. maccullochiana Ashburton pea
Tall annual to 2 m with pinnate leaves. Bears long heads of rose-pink
pea-flowers to 2 cm in summer. Distribution: Wastern Australia.
Propagation: From scarified seed.
Cultivation: Grown successfully at King’s Park, Perth, in sandy soil.
Should perform well in the eastern States if seed is available. Sow in July.
May be best positioned against a fence or trellis. P.

Swainsona greyana is very similar to S. galegifolia, but with white
woolly hairs on inflorescence and under leaves.

Many other Swainsona spp. warrant cultivation. Some have been grown
from time to time, but few others are in regular cultivation. All can be grown
readily from scarified seed, and a sunny, well-drained location should be
used, at least for starting them.

Templetonia retusa
(Medium)

Rounded spread-
ing shrub to 2 m
high by 3 m
across. Leaves ob-
ovate to 4 cm.
with a flattened
end. Large red
pea-flowers with re-
flexed standard oc-
cur in winter and
early spring. Oc-
casionally  flowers
are all yellow or
partly yellow. Dis-
tribution: on lime-
stone in S.A. and
W.A.

Templetonia Propagation:
retusa From scarified
seed.
Cultivation:

Drawing by M. Fagg
Excellent  shrub

for limestone areas.
Resistant to salt
spray. Limestone
underlay may prove beneficial in culturing this plant in other areas. Good
drainage and full sun to half shade are required. H. W.

Viminaria juncea (Syn. V. denudata) Native broom

Small tree or tall shrub occurring in swampy ground with pendulous,
(eafless branches and sprays of yellow pea-flowers in spring. Distribution:
all States except the Northern Territory.

Propagation: From scarified seed.

Cultivation: Does well in damp soils in fuil sun. The plant is effective
near a pool with branches overhanging the edge. It may reach 6 m, so
sufficient space should be allowed. E. H. L. P

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The Plant Family Fabaceae

By C. N. DEBENHAM

The plant family Fabaceae, formerly known as Papilionaceae, has some
480 genera throughout temperate and tropical areas of the world. Of these,
92 gesnera are found in Australia. They are herbaceous to woody plants,
usually shrubs, but include creepers and climbers and some very beautiful
trees.

Botanical characteristics of this large family of plants are:—
Inflorescence (hand of flowers): solitary-flowered to racemose, paniculate,

capitulate, spicate.

Flowers: mostly bisexual and irregular, collectively known as pea-flowers.

Calyx of five sepals partially united to form a five-lobed or -toothed tube.

Cornlla of five free, imbricate petals, papilionaceous in most, i.e. the upper-
most petal (the standard) exterior, two petals lateral and almost parallel
to form “wings”, and a lower pair innermost and partially united by
their margins to form a ‘“keel” enclosing the stamens and gynaecium.

Stamens usually 10, free or variously partially united by their filaments into
a closed or open tube or sheath, the uppermost (adaxial) filament
showing varying degrees of cohesion and sometimes absent. Anthers
opening lengthwise.

Gynoecium: monocarpellate, superior, the 1-locular ovary produced to a
simple style and stigma. Ovules one to many, attached to the ventral
suture of the carpel, usually in two rows.

Fruit: a one to many seeded pod; a legume when opening to two valves
by one or both sutures; a lomentum when breaking up into 1-seeded,
usually indehiscent, joints (articles), or the pod indehiscent or winged.
Seeds usually with a leathery-textured testa, sometimes with an external
fleshy tissue (a strophiole), rarely with endosperm.

Leaves: except in Australian genera, the leaves are rarely opposite or
simple, but with stipules often present and sometimes also secondary
stipules (stipels) at the base of the leaflets.

Roots: a symbiotic relationship with a nitrogen fixing bacteria makes these
plants important for soil improvement.

Not native to Australia, but widely cultivated here, are the several food
(“pulse”) and ‘‘green manure’” crops, e.g. of Phaseolus (various beans),
Pisum (various peas), Cicer arietinum (chick peas), Vicia faba (broad
bean), Glycine max (soybean), Arachis hypogaea (peanut), such pasture
crops as the clovers and trefoils of Trifolium and Lotus, the medics and
lucerne (M. sativa) of Medicago, the vetches and tares of Vicia spp., and
the many ornamentals as Lathyrus, Lupinus, Spartium, Ulex, Cytisus, Chamae-
cytisus, Sarothamnus, Wistaria, Erythrina, etc.

Also familiar to the Australian scene are the products derived from
overseas, rotenone (an ingredient of certain insecticides) from Derris spp.,
liquorice from Glycyrrhiza spp., and Gum tragacanth from Astragalus gummi-
fera.

Many of the Australian natives are becoming established world-wide as
ornamentals. Black Bean, Castanospermum australe, is a recognised source
of a high quality cabinet timber. While palatable to stock, a number
(especially of Gastrolobium and Oxylobium) are poison plants, the toxic
principle of the two genera, monofluoroacetic acid, reaching dangerous levels,
particularly at flowering and fruiting times. Other genera, both cultivated
(e.g. Lupinus, Lotus, Trifolium) and native (e.g. Goodia lotifolia, Indigofera
australis), have been shown to produce toxins largely of the glycosidal
(often cyanogenetic) and alkaloidal groups.

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@@@ 33 @@@



KEY TO THE GROUPS OF GENERA

A.

Filaments all free from one another.
Petals all free, similar and almost equal
Petals free, or the lower two overlapping, but not united.
Corolla papilionaceous to almost regular
Petals partly united, dissimilar. Corolla papilionaceous.
Standard much shorter than the wings
Standard longer (and larger) than the wings.
(i) Calyx deeply divided to valvate lobes
(ii) Calyx not valvate; lobes rarely longer than the tube.
Ovules 4 or more
Ovules 2
Filaments variously united. Corolia papilionaceous.
I. Filaments all united in a sheath open on the upper side.
Fruit dehiscent.
Leaves unifoliate or reduced to scales
Leaves digitate, of three leaflets. Mainly herbs
Leaves pinnate. Mainly shrubs
Il. Filaments united in a closed sheath, the upper (adaxial)
free at the base or becoming quite free.
Trees, tall shrubs, or woody climbers, pinnately-leaved,
the leaflets at least five. Fruit indehiscent (or finally
dehiscent in some 42)
Herbs or shrubs (usually dwarf), pinnately-leaved, the
leaflets mainly three. Fruit dehiscent. Refer also 70
Ill. Filaments all united in a sheath opsn on the upper side,
or in two equal bundles, or the adaxial absent. Fruit
indehiscent. Pinnately-leaved trees
IV. Filaments united in a sheath open on the upper side, the
adaxial free, or partly united or (63) absent.

(a) Leaves pinnate or 1-foliolate, with T-shaped hairs.
Connective of filament with gland-like tip. Pod septate
between seeds, but not jointed

(b) Leaves pinnate or digitate. Pod indehiscent, 1-seeded.
Leaves glandular
Leaves not glandular, pinnately 3-foliolate

(c) Leaves pinnate or digitate, glandular. Pod dehiscent,
rarely 1-seeded

(d) Leaves pinnate, of several leaflets bordered by
glandular teeth. Pod indehiscent, 1 or 2-seeded

(e) Leaves pinnate, of several non-glandular leaflets. Pod
dehiscent; seeds many

(f) Leaves pinnate, of several leaflets, the petiole ending
in a bristle, non-glandular. No adaxial stamen. Pod
dehiscent, several-seeded

(g) Leaves pinnate, non-glandular, without a bristle. Pod
dehiscent.

(i) Trees, shrubs, or woody climbers. Leaves 3-
foliolate
(ii)-(iv) Herbs or dwarf shrubs. Flowers axillary

(h) Annual herbs, 3-foliolate, the leaflets on long slender
petioles. Flowers in axillary sessile clusters. Pod
dehiscent

(i) Perennial herbs, 5-foliate, three leaflets close together
at the top, two at the bass of the petiole. Flowers
axillary, umbellate. Pod dehiscent

V. Filaments all united in a split sheath. Leaves pinnate.

Fruit jointed, the joints often separating, rarely dehiscent

52-53
91-92

54-58
59

60-62

63

64-67
68-76

77

78
79-82

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@@@ 34 @@@



VI. Filaments united in a closed tube, the adaxial free or
united. Leaves pinnately 1 or 3-foliate. Fruit jointed, the
joints separating into indehiscent, 1-seeded segments 83-89
VIl. Filaments all united in a closed tube; anthers alternately
long and short. Leaves digitate, 2-4 foliolate. Pod of several
indehiscent joints 90

KEY TO GENERA IN THE FAMILY

A.

Filaments free; anthers uniform (except in Euchilopsis). Pod re-
maining whole. Trees or shrubs, herbaceous only in Isotropis.
Corolla regular, the petals all free, similar and almost equal.
Leaves alternate, unifoliolate. Trees.
Petals with long claws, shorter than the filaments. Flowers
in long terminal racemes, orange yellow. Pod flat, 1 or 2
seeded. A single species of the tropical and sub-tropical
eastern coast. 1. Barklya
Corolla papilionaceous or almost regular, the petals free or the
lower two overlapping, but not united. Leaves unequally pinnate,
the leaflets more than 10. Trees or tall shrubs, tropical or sub-
tropical.
Lower petals longer than the upper, all free, narrowed into
claws, almost similar. Leaves opposite. Flowers in racemes
or panicles, rose-coloured. Pod 4 to 1 seeded. 2. Podopetalum
Lower petals shorter than the upper (standard), free or
(Sophora) overlapping to form a keel. Leaves alternate.
Flowers in loose racemes axillary to the older leaves
or lateral on old wood, yellow, large. Pod up to 20 cm
long, turgid, almost woody; seeds several, large,
globular. One species. 3. Castanospermum
Flowers in simple racemes or in large panicles, terminal,
yellow. Pod up to 15 cm long, woody or leathery, con-
stricted between the globular or ovoid seeds. 4. Sophora
Corolla papilionaceous. Leaves mostly simple or reduced (some-
times digitate or pinnate in Gompholobium and Burtonia. Shrubs
often dwarf or prostrate, rarely small trees (Jacksonia) or herbac-
eous (/sotropis). Temperate or tropical. (Tribe Podalyreae).
Standard small or narrow, much shorter than the wings, the
keel usually longer and broader than the wings. Ovules 4
or more. While all genera are represented in W.A., only
Leptosema (sometimes equated with Brachysema) is known
elsewhere, i.e. N.T. south to central tropical Q.
Calyx with lobes almost of equal length, the 2 upper
often united higher up. Flowers red, or red with orange
or purple, rarely green-yellow . 1
Calyx with 2 upper minute teeth and 3 lower elongated
lobes, its upper surface split obliquely.
Flowers red, at first 4 togsther within a 4-leaved
involucre, forming a nodding, sessile, terminal head.
Shrubs with opposite, simple, broad and obtuse
leaves. One species. 5. Jansonia
1. Leaves simple, opposite or alternate. 2
Leaves reduced to small scales.
Flowers either solitary or clustered within the nodes
of the winged stems, or crowded in short radical
scapes. Fruit ovate or ovoid, inflated; seeds (where
known) not strophiolate. 6. Leptosema
2. Bracteoles absent. Flowers solitary or few, infra-terminal
or axillary. Fruit ovoid or elongated; seeds strophiolate.
7. Brachysema

Page 126—Vol. 10



@@@ 35 @@@



Bracteoles 2, orbicular, forming a large cup below the
calyx. Flowers axillary, solitary or paired on slender
pedicels. Leaves alternate, narrow and long, with recurved

margins. Fruit ?. One species. 8. Cupulanthes
Standard well-developed, longer than the wings, orbicular
or reniform.
(a) Calyx deeply divided to valvate lobss, the 2 upper

1

usually broader, but (except for a tendency in some
Jacksonia) not united. Seeds without a strophiole.
Leaves simple or digitate, or pinnate with the ter-
minal leaflet always sessile. Flowers solitary, few,
or in racemes usually terminal. Pods ovoid or
globular, inflated, often oblique. Shrubs. 1
Leaves usually reduced to minute scales, some-
times few and 1-foliolate. Flowers in terminal or
lateral spikes or racemes, or scattered along the
branches. Pod ovate or oblong, flat or inflated.
Shrubs or small trees with angular or winged
branches and branchlets either resembling flat
leaves, or spiny and branched, sometimes angular
and rod-like. Flowers yellow, or red-purple and
yellow. 9. Jacksonia
Flowers solitary, few, or in short racemes usually terminal,
yellow or red with a dark-coloured calyx. Ovules rarely
4, usually 8. 10. Gompholobium
Flowers solitary in the axils of the upper leaves or in
terminal racemes, yellow, orange-red or bluish-purple,
the calyx dark-coloured. Ovules regularly 2. 11. Burtonia
(ii) Calyx-lobes not longer than the tube or, if longer,
as in Isotropis, Euchilopsis and some Pultenaea,
not valvate, sometimes reduced to = equal teeth
as in Viminaria, some Latrobea and many Daviesia,
but in most the 2 upper broader than the lower 3
and united to form a lip.
Calyx-lobes mostly of equal or near-equal length.
Ovules 4 or more, except in Mirbelia, where
sometimes 2. Leaves simple, entire, or with
pungent-pointed lobes, or (in some /Isotropis)
unifoliolate. Colour of flowers orange, red or
purple; calyx and ovary usually silky-haired.
Pod with an undivided cavity; seeds 4 to many,
strophiolate only in Nemcia. 1
Pod divided by a longitudinal partition developed
from the lower suture; seeds 2 to many, not
strophiolate.
Flowers in racemes axillary or terminal, or
solitary or clustered and axillary. Pod ovoid or
oblong, inflated. Shrubs sometimes spinous.
12. Mirbelia
Calyx-lobes, when long, not forming an almost entire
lip. Pod ovoid or oblong, inflated or flattened. Flowers
in terminal (most Chorizema) or axillary racemes, some-
times in axillary or terminal clusters, or solitary. Stipules
spinous (some Oxylobium), scale-like or absent. Shrubs. 2
Calyx-lobes long, the 2 upper forming an almost entire lip.
Pod oblong, linear or lanceolate, acute, somewhat inflated,
with numerous seeds. Flowers solitary on axillary ped-
uncles or forming a loose terminal raceme. Leaves
alternate, herbaceous, with lanceolate, linear or minute
stipules. Herbs or low shrubs. 13. Isotropis

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@@@ 36 @@@



2. Keel about the length of the wings, but broader. Leaves

mostly opposite or in whorls of 3. 3

Keel much shorter than the wings. Leaves rarely opposite

or whorled. Flowers mostly in terminal racemes. 14. Chorizema
3. Flowers in terminal or axillary clusters. Seeds strophio-

late, 4 to 6 15. Nemcia

Flowers in terminal or axillary racemes or clusters.

Seeds not strophiolate, from 4 to many. 16. Oxylobium

Calyx-lobes rarely of equal length. Ovules 2. Seeds 1 or 2
(as in some Mirbelia).

Bracteoles persistent, adnate, or close to the calyx, leafy
or scale-like, Leaves simple, entire, mainly alternate. Flowers
axillary and sclitary, or crowded at or near the ends of the
floral shoots. 1

Bracteoles not persistent and minute, and remote from the
calyx or absent.

1. Stamens quite free from the petals. Leaves from linear
to broad, terete to flat, or with margins revolute, recurved,
or incurved, sometimes concave or channelled above;
stipules rarely absent. Flowers orange-yellow, often with
a purplish keel, when in heads often surrounded by leaf-
or scale-like stipules or bracts. Pod ovate, flat or inflated,
often beaked. Seeds strophiolate. 17. Pultenaea
Stamens all, or at least the outer, adnate by their bases
with the petals. Leaves linear, with revolute margins;
stipules absent or minute. Flowers yellow, or purple-red
and yellow. Bracts small or abssnt. Pod ovate, inflated;
seeds not strophiolate. 18. Phyllota
2. Leaves linear, with involute or incurved margins, or terete
and grooved along the upper surface. Stipules minute or
absent. Pod ovate or rounded, flattened or inflated; seeds
strophiolate. 3
Leaves from linear to orbicular, or modified, the margins
when not flat recurved or revolute, or sometimes thick-
ened. 4
3. Leaves alternate. Flowers few together in axillary or
terminal racemes or heads, rarely solitary, yellow or
yellow and red, the standard broader than long. 19. Dillwynia
Leaves opposite and decussate. Flowers solitary or 2-4
together, sometimes crowded at or near the ends of the
shoots, axillary, yellow and orange to red or purple. 20. Eutaxia
4. Pod ovate, ovoid or globular (? Erichsenia), flat or
inflated. 5
Pod triangular, flattened, the upper suture almost straight,
the lower sharply curved.
Leaves either flat and horizontal or vartical, or terete
and spinescent, sometimes reduced to short teeth, or
absent. Flowers yellow to red, mostly in axillary or lateral
racemes, rarely terminal. Calyx-lobes usually very short,
in some the upper 2 broader and united. Seeds with a

prominent strophiole. 21. Daviesia
5. Stems reed-like, leafles, or leaves modified, narrow. 6
Stems not reed-like, normally bearing leaves. 7

6. Leaves when present narrow. Flowers yellow or red, in
terminal racemes or lateral racemes or clusters. Upper 2
calyx-lobes forming a prominent falcate lip. Style with a
longitudinal membrane and ring of hairs bzslow the stigma.

Pod globular, flattened, oblique; seeds strophiolate.
22. Sphaerolobium

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@@@ 37 @@@



B.

Leaves usually all reduced to long filiform petioles, rarely
1-3 foliolate. Flowers orange-yellow, in terminal racemes.
Calyx-lobes reduced to short equal teeth. Pod ovoid-

oblong, indehiscent; seeds with a small strophiole. 23. Viminaria

7. Calyx-lobes almost equal, either ribbed or reduced to
teeth (Latrobea), or rounded and shorter than the tube

(Erichsenia). 8

Calyx-lobes unequal, the upper 2 usually broader and

united higher up. 9
8. Leaves alternate or scattered, simple, usually narrow.

Flowers yellow and purple, in axillary racemes. Leaves

hooked; stipules bract-like. One species. 24. Erichsenia

Flowers yellow or purple, solitary or in heads or clusters,

terminal or axillary. Leaves concave or channelled above,

obtuse or pointed, but not hooked; stipules absent. Pod

ovate or lanceolate, flat or compressed; seeds strophio-

late. 25. Latrobea
9. Anthers alternately longer and shorter. Upper calyx-lobes

large and orbicular, the lower 3 very small. Flowers

orange-red, axillary, solitary or paired. Pod oblique,

rounded, somewhat compressed; seed without a strop-

hiole. One species. 26. Euchilopsis

Anthers uniform. Upper 2 calyx-lobes not conspicuously

larger than the lower 3.

Flowers axillary, solitary, or in clusters, rarely in short

terminal racemes, yellow or yellow and purple. Leaves

alternate or in whorls of 3, usually narrow or broader

when whorled, margins recurved or revolute; stipules

absent. Pod ovate, flat or somewhat inflated; seeds

usually without strophioles. 27. Aotus

Flowers in axillary or terminal racemes, or in dense

axillary clusters, vyellow or with red-purple. Leaves

opposite or whorled, flat, usually broad, often toothed,

lobed, or pungent-pointed; stipules rarely absent. Pod

ovoid, inflated; seeds strophiolate. 28. Gastrolobium

Filaments 10, all united in a sheath split above. Pod 2-valved,

dehiscent, not jointed, 1-seeded only in Plagiocarpus.

Exceptional to the group is Plagiolobium (based on Hovea

chorizemifolia), in which the adaxial filament usually is free

to the base.

(a) Leaves unifoliolate or reduced to scales. Flowers axillary;
upper 2 calyx-lobes broader and usually much larger than

the lower 3. Seeds strophiolate, several to many, or 2

in some Scottia.

(i) Anthers uniform. Flowers solitary (or 2-3 together
in some Bossiaea), yellow in Platylobium, yellow with
red or brown, or orange, or orange and purple in
others.

Leaves opposite, branchlets slender and terete.

Leaves opposite or alternate, mostly entire, in some
reduced to scales or absent. The branchlets, terete,
angular or winged, flattened or spinescent, sometimes

leafless. Pod flat, not winged, several seeded. 29. Bossiaea

1. Leaves entire, angled or deeply sinuate, or den-
ticulate or prickly-toothed, from minute to 20
mm or more long. Pod flat, not winged, usually

with a long stalk (stipe); seeds from 2 to 8. 30. Scottia
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@@@ 38 @@@



Leaves entire or with acute or obtuse angles or
lobes, reticulate, 20 mm or more long. Pod flat,
winged along the upper suture, opening elastic-
ally in 2 valves, rolled back, but not separating
from the wings, several seeded. 31. Platylobium

(i) Anthers alternately long/erect, and short/versatile.
Adaxial filament quite free from the others.
Leaves pungent-pointed, sinuate and prickly-
toothed, ovate to lanceolate, reticulate; stipules
spinous. Flowers 2-6 in the axils, blue. Pod 2-8
seeded. One species. 32. Plagiolobium
Adaxial filament united with the others. Leaves entire,
rarely unifoliolate in Templetonia, few or none.
Stems terete or flattened, usually grooved or
striate; stipules minute or spinescent. Flowers red,
yellow or with purple, solitary or 2-3 together.
Pod flat, oblong or linear, usually with several
seeds. 33. Templetonia
Stems terete, rarely spinescent, stipules minute
or none. Flowers blue or purple, or white, in
clusters or very short racemes, rarely solitary.
Pod inflated, obliquely globular or ovoid, rarely
more than 2-seeded. 34. Hovea

(b) Leaves digitately 3-foliolate. Calyx-lobes almost equal.
In Crotalaria, leaves sometimes simple, unifoliolate, or
up to 5 digitate; upper 2 calyx-lobes sometimes forming
a lip with the lower 3 = united. Calyx-lobes very
unequal in Muelleranthus.

(i) Anthers alternately erect and versatile, almost equal
in Plagiocarpus, long and short in Crotalaria.
Flowers solitary and axillary. Pod inflated, obliquely
ovate, with 1 strophiolate seed. Dwarf shrub. One
species. 35. Plagiocarpus
Flowers in axillary, leaf-opposed, or terminal
racemes, yellow or blue. Pod inflated, globular or
oblong, with 2 or more seeds not strophiolate. Herbs,
or shrubs, usually dwarf. 36. Crotalaria

(i) Anthers uniform. Flowers solitary (1-2 in Rothia) on
leaf-opposed peduncles. Seeds not strophiolate.
Annual herbs, tropical.

Calyx-lobes almost equal. Pod linear or linear-
lanceolate, with numerous seeds. 37. Rothia
Calyx-lobes very unequal, the 2 upper short, the
lower-most longest. Pod linear-oblong, up to 9 seeds.

38. Muelleranthus

(c) Leaves pinnately 3-foliolate, the leaflets entire. Upper 2
calyx-lobes united in a 2-toothed lip, the 3 lower equal.
Anthers uniform. Flowers terminal/leaf-opposed racemes,
yellow seeds 2-4, strophiolate. Shrubs. 39. Goodia

(d) Leaves unifoliolate, upper 2 calyx lobes united in a 2-
toothed lid, the three lower equal. Anthers almost uniform.
Flowers in terminal racemes, yellow with brown. Pod flat,
oblong. 39(a). Aenictophyton

(e) Leaves pinnately 3 or more foliolate, rarely unifoliolate.

Calyx deeply split, the upper 2 lobes united almost to

the top. Anthers uniform. Flowers axillary, 1-2, yellow,

small. Pod flat, oblong-linear, septate between the

numerous strophiolate seeds. Erect shrubs, tropical.
40. Lamprolobium

Do AR A1 AN



@@@ 39 @@@



(f) Leaves unequally pinnate with 7-11 leaflets, the leaflets
entire. Flowers solitary on terminal long peduncles, yellow
or blue; 2 upper calyx-lobes united in a truncate
emarginate lip. Anthers uniform. Ovules 4. Pod and seed?

Annual or perennial herbs. 41. Ptychosema

. Adaxial filament free at the base, then =+ united with the

others in a closed tube, or becoming quite free; anthers

uniform. On this character, Glycine 70 (IV) must be included.

(a) Trees, tall shrubs, or woody climbers with unequally
pinnate leaves, the leaflets at least 5 in Aust. reps. Pod
indehiscent, or finally dehiscent in Milletia when 2-valved,
flat, linear to oblong, membranous to almost woody;
seeds not strophiolate, flat, orbicular to reniform. Flowers
in racemes or panicles; calyx truncate or with short teeth
or lobes. Tropical or sub-tropical.

Racemes terminal or paniculate at the ends of the
branches. Flowers purple, pink or white. Pod almost
woody, dehiscent (finally) when 2-valved, with usually

numerous seeds. 42. Milletia

Racemes axillary or forming large terminal panicles.
Flowers violet, purple, or white. Pod membranous
or coriaceous, indehiscent, usually 1 or 2 seeded.
Trees or tall climbing shrubs.

43. Lonchocarpus (Kunstleria)

Racemes axillary. Flowers white. Pod coriaceous to
almost woody, indehiscent, 1-seeded. Trees. One

species. 44. Pongamia

Racemes axillary. Flowers violet to purple or white.
Pod thin to coriaceous, indehiscent, the upper or
both sutures bordered by a narrow wing, 1 or few
seeded. Tall, woody climbers, rarely trees. 45.
(b) Herbs, or shrubs, usually dwarf, with trifoliolate pinnate
leaves, stipulate (minute or none in Canavalia) and
stipellate in Dioclea and Canavalia, or in Tephrosia, from
numerous to 1, or rarely simple. Pod dehiscent, 2-valved;
seeds strophiolate only in some Tephrosia.
Flowers in terminal, leaf-opposed, or rarely axillary,
racemes, red, purple or white. Calyx-teeth or lobes
almost equal, or the 2 upper ones more united, or
the lowest the longest. Standard with appressed
hairs. Pod linear, rarely ovate, flat; seeds usually
many, often with a small strophiole. Herbs or dwarf

Derris

shrubs. 46. Tephrosia

Flowers in axillary clusters. Calyx longer than the
shortly-haired petals, deeply divided to linear-subu-
late, free, almost equal lobes. Pod oblique, 1-seeded.
Dwarf shrubs, densely silky-haired. One species,

C.A. 47. Paratephrosia

Flowers in axillary racemes on a thick or elongated
peduncle, blue, violet or white. Upper 2 calyx-lobes
united in a lip. Standard lobed at base. Pod
coriaceous or woody, the upper suture dilated, or
both sutures winged; seeds from 2 to many. Shrubs.

48. Dioclea

Flowers in axillary racemes on an elongated
peduncle, the floral shoot noded, pink. Calyx 2-
lipped, the upper lip with two broad rounded lobes.
Pod oblong or linear, inflated, with a rib or wing
on each side of the upper suture; seeds numerous.

Climbing or prostrate herbs. 49. Canavalia
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@@@ 40 @@@



Filaments all united in a sheath open on the upper side, or
in 2 equal bundles, or the adaxial filament absent; anthers
uniform, erect, didymous. Fruit indehiscent. Leaves pinnate,
with many leaflets, without stipels.
Flowers small, numerous, in axillary or terminal cymes
or panicles, blue or white. Pod thin and flat, oblong or
linear; seeds 1 or few. Trees, sometimes climbing.

Tropical. 50. Dalbergia

Adaxial filament free (absent in Abrus), the others united in
a sheath open on the upper side, except in Glycine where
all filaments are united in a closed tube with the adaxial
often becoming free. In Pycnospora the adaxial filament is
at first united with the others, and in Glycyrrhiza it is slightly
coherent.

Pod 2-valved and dehiscent, or indehiscent in Glycyrrhiza,
Psoralea and Meladenia.

(a) Leaves 1 foliolate or pinnate with 3 or more leaflets, rarely
glandular. Herbs or shrubs with appressed, or with a
sprinkling of grey or silvery hairs attached by the centre
(i.e. T-shaped), sometimes with other hairs in addition, but
in Indigofera australis often glabrous. Flowers in axillary
racemes or spikes. Anthers uniform, the tip of the
connective gland-like. Pod 2-valved, septate between the
seeds, but not jointed; seeds 1 to many, not strophiolate.

Flowers usually red or purple, gibbous or spurred
on each side of the keel. Calyx with tube short,
broad and oblique, the teeth or lobes almost equal

or the lowest longest. 51. Indigofera

(b) Leaves digitate or pinnate, with 3 or more leaflets, or
1-foliolate, glandular-punctate, if present, hairs not or
T-type. Pod indehiscent, ovate, rarely longer than the
calyx and usually enclosed by it; seeds 1, not strophiolate.

Calyx-lobes almost equal, or the lowest the longest,
the upper 2 sometimes united. Flowers in axillary
spikes or racemes, usually small, purple, pink, blue
or white. Stipules embracing the stem by a broad
base. Endocarp of pod free from the seed. Shrubs.

52. Psoralea

Calyx 2-lipped, the upper lip 4-lobed. Flowers in
axillary short racemes or clusters. Leaves uni-
foliolate, densely studded with black dots, present
also on the calyx and bracts; stipules linear-subulate.
Endocarp of pod adherent to the seed. Glandular,

silky-haired shrubs, tropical. 53. Meladenia

(c) Leaves pinnately 3-foliolate or, in Moghania, digitately
3-foliolate, or unifoliolate in some Moghania and Eriosema,
glandular-punctate, usually with a silken down. Flowers
axillary, in racemes or clusters, or solitary, usually
yellow, but in Moghania red or purple with yellow.
Standard usually with 2 lobes at the base. Pod 2-valved,
dehiscent. Tropical or sub-tropical herbs or small shrubs.
Ovules 4 or more. Pod flat, linear or oblong. Seeds
strophiolate.

Fruit septate between the seeds, obtuse. Twining

herbs or erect shrubs. 54. Atylosia

Fruit not septate, obliquely acuminate. Twining herbs.

55. Dunbaria
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@@@ 41 @@@



Milletia megasperma Photography by M. Fagg.

Milletia_megasperma_is a vigorous woody climber which forms lianas in our eastern
rainforests. This species is sometimes referred to as native wisteria and has similar uses
to the well-known exotic climber. Description on page 117.

(d)

Ovules 2, sometimes 1 in Rhynchosia. Pod not septate;
seeds not strophiolate, except in some Rhynchosia.

Pod inflated, short and very oblique. Leaves digitate
or unifoliolate, with veins prominent on the under-
surface. Flowers in dense panicles or spike-like
racemes. Herbs or shrubs. 56. Moghania

Pod flat, obliquely orbicular or oblong.
Seeds obliquely transverse, attached to the
funicle at one end. In single Aust. rep. an
erect herb from a perennial tuber, 1-foliolate,
hairy in all parts. 57. Eriosema

Seeds not transverse, attached centrally to the
funicle. Herbs twining or eresct, or dwarf-shrubs,
3-foliolate. 58. Rhynchosia

Leaves pinnate, of several leaflets with one terminal,
bordered by minute glandular teeth; stipules narrow,
mambranous, not persistent; stipels absent. Flowers in
axillary racemes or spikes, blue to lilac. Calyx-lobes
equal or the upper two shorter. Anthers alternately un-
equal. Pod flat, glandular, not septate, indehiscent, with
1 or 2 seeds not strophiolate. Erect or semi-prostrate
herbs or dwarf shrubs, temperate. 59. Glycyrrhiza

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@@@ 42 @@@



(e)

M

(9)

Leaves pinnate, of several leaflets, not glandular, stipu-
late, but with stipels minute or absent. Flowers in axillary
racemes. Calyx truncate or with almost equal teeth or
lobes. Pod 2-valved, dehiscent, or only partly so; seeds
many, not strophiolate. Herbs or shrubs.
Leaflets in equal pairs; stipules setaceous, rarely
persistent. Flowers large, yellow, red, variegated or
white. Pod linear and long, thick, septate within
between the seeds. Herbs or shrubs, or short-lived

tall shrubs or small trees, mostly tropical. 60. Sesbania

Leaflet-pairs terminated by a single leaflet; stipules

herbaceous. Style longitudinally bearded on the

adaxial side towards the end. Pod not flat.
Standard acuminate, closely reflexed over the
calyx. Flowers large (in the one Aust. rep.), red
with a deep purple or black shining blotch
at the base of the standard. Pod oblong,
acuminate. Prostrate or ascending herbs or dwarf

shrubs, inland to interior. 61. Clianthus

Standard almost orbicular, on a short claw, the
claw often thickened or with calii above. Flowers
large or small, violet-purple, blue, red, white or
yellow. Pod ovoid or oblong, sometimes divided
by a longitudinal partition. Herbs or dwarf shrubs.

62. Swainsona

Leaves pinnate, of several equal pairs of leaflets, the
petiole ending in a bristle, without stipels. Flowers in
racemes, axillary or terminal, clustered on lateral thick-
ened nodes, small, pink, purple or white. Calyx truncate
or shortly or broadly toothed. Adaxial filament absent;
anthers uniform. Pod 2-valved, flat, oblong or linear,
partially septate between the seeds; seeds several, not
strophiolate, sometimes black or red and spotted. Tropical

twiners, woody at the base. 63. Abrus

Leaves pinnate, 3 or 5-foliolate, rarely 1-foliolate, not
glandular, stipulate and stipellate. Flowers axillary or
occasionally terminal when in raczmes. Anthers uniform
except in Mucuna.
Pod 2-valved, dehiscent, rarely septate and never jointed.
(i) Erect trees, shrubs, or woody climbers with 3-foliolate
leaves. Flowers in axillary or terminal racemes, in
clusters on lateral nodes along the peduncle (but
only with a tendency in Vandasia). Tropical.
Seeds not strophiolate, few in the pod, ovoid or
orbicular, large.
Wing and keel longer than the standard. Calyx
with the 2 upper lobes united in 1. Anthers
alternately longer and erect, shorter and ver-
satile, often bearded. The single Aust. rep. a
large twiner with greenish-yellow flowers in short,
loose corymbs. Pod thick, but flat, at first with

stinging hairs. 64. Mucuna

Standard the largest. Clalyx truncate or 5-
toothed. Anthers uniform. Flowers red or scarlet.
Keel and wings much smaller than the standard.
Calyx truncate, split, or 5-toothed. Racemes
axillary and leafless, or terminal and leafy at the
base, the flowers largs and few in the clusters.
Pod linear-falcate, acuminate. Trees, often large
and deciduous, or shrubs, often the trunk and

branches with prickles. 65. Erythrina
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@@@ 43 @@@



(i)

(iif)

(iv)

V)

Keel almost equal to the standard and
beaked, wings much shorter. Calyx with
broad, obtuse teeth, Racemes from long,
often pendulous, axillary peduncles. Pod
ovate to oblong, oblique. Climbing shrubs.

66. Strongylodon
Seeds strophiolate, szveral in the pod, oblong, large.
Flowers in axillary racemes or in terminal
panicles, violet spotted with yellow, several in
the clusters; keel incurved, obtuse, almost equal
to the wings, standard the largest. Pod broadly
linear, flattened, silky-haired. A single species

of climbing shrubs. 67. Vandasia

Herbs, prostrate, twining, or erect with 1-5 leaflets,
when 5 the lateral ones in 2 opposite pairs. Flowers
axillary. Pod linear, with several strophiolate seeds.
Flowers in axillary racemes, the racemes some-
times in terminal panicles, small, violet, blue or
pink. Calyx-teeth short. Glabrous herbs twining,
prostrate or erect. 68. Hardenbergia
Flowers in racemes, umbels, pairs or solitary,
on axillary peduncles, sometimes above 25 mm
long, scarlet, red, blue, or black with yellow.
Calyx with 2 upper lobes united in an emarginate
or 2-toothed upper lip. Perennial herbs, prostrate
or twining, usually hairy. 69. Kennedia

Herbs, perennial, prostrate or twining, 3-foliolate,
usually hairy. Flowers in loose axillary raczames, very
small, blue or pink. Calyx with the 2 upper lobes
united in a 2-toothed or 2-lobed upper lip. Adaxial
filament at first united with the others in a closed
tube, often becoming finally frese. Pod linear or
falcate, with several seeds not strophiolate. 70. Glycine

Calyx with 2 upper lobes united completely. 70(a). Shuteria
Herbs, annual or perennial, prostrate or twining,
3-foliolate. Flowers in pairs or clusters along or at
the end of a long peduncle arising from swollen or
gland-like nodes, purple, red or yellow. Upper calyx-
lobes or teeth united in a lip, entire, or (Phaseolus)
2-lobed, or (some Vigna) united at the base only.
Adaxial filament free; anthers uniform. Pod linear,
flat or terete, with several seeds not strophiolate.
Keel not beaked or incurved. Style filiform, not
bearded; stigma terminal. Stipules small and not
persistent. 71. Galactia
Keel beaked or incurved. Style thickened,
bearded lengthwise in the upper part; stigma
oblique or on one side of the style. Stipules
usually broad and persistent, often striate.
Keel prolonged into a long linear beak,

spirally twisted with the style. 72. Phaseolus
Keel incurved, either obtuse or with an
oblique beak, not spirally twisted. 73. Vigna

Herbs, erect or twining, 3-foliolate, or (some Clitoria)
1-foliolate; stipules ovate to lanceolate, striate, per-
sistent. Flowers few, clustered on very short ped-
uncles. Calyx not lipped. Pod flattened, linear, with
several seeds not strophiolate. Tropical segments of
large genera with greater diversity in character.

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@@@ 44 @@@



Oxylobium ilicifolium

Photography by M. Fagg.

In the genus Oxylobium, the keel is about the same length as the wings as shown
above. A feature of O. ilicifolium is the holly-like leaves. See page 118 for a description.

Flowers not 20 mm long, yellowish. Calyx cam-
panulate with subulate lobes longer than the
tube. Keel very incurved with a short, obtuse
beak; style with a small tuft of hairs around the
termina! stigma. (Austrodolachos?) 74. Dolichos
Flowers large, white. Calyx tubular, about 20
mm long, the lobes acuminate and acute, about
the length of the tube. Standard much longer
than the other petals; keel incurved, acute. Style
bearded longitudinally on the adaxial side.

75. Clitoria

(vi) Dwarf shrubs. Leaves pinnately 3- or 1-foliolate.
Flowers in terminal racemes or panicles, small,
purple. Calyx with the 2 upper lobes united in 1.
Adaxial filament free or at first united with the others.

Pod oblong, inflated, transversely-veined, with several
seeds not strophiolate. Tropical. 76. Pycnospora

Annual herbs, prostrate or ascending, 3-foliolate, the
leaflets somewhat denticulate, on a long slender petiole;
stipules adnate the petiole, in single Aust. rep. deeply
toothed. Flowers in axillary sessile clusters, small, yellow.
Calyx with almost equal teeth. Adaxial filament free, or
at first united with the others; anthers uniform. Pod
linear, 2-valved and dehiscent, curved, with several seeds
not strophiolate. Temperate 77. Trigonella

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@@@ 45 @@@



Platylobium formosum

The genus Platylobium has opposite leaves. Some of the low-growing, spreading
forms make good rockery plants. See page 119 for a description.

(i)

Herbs, perennial in Aust. reps., 5-foliolate, 3 leaflets
close together at the top of a flattened peticle, and 2
at the base stipule-like; stipules absent or tubercle-like.
Flowers from few to several together, umbellate from an
axillary peduncle, with a leaf-like bract under the umbel,
pink, white or yellow. Adaxial filament free, the others
alternately dilated near the top; anthers uniform. Fruit
2-valved and dehiscent, linear, terete, septate between the

seeds; seeds several, not strophioclate. 78.

V. Filaments all united in a sheath open on the adaxial side,
often splitting also on the lower side or forming 2 distinct
bundles. Flowers few on axillary short peduncles, usually
racemose, yellow. Calyx usually 2-lipped. Fruit jointed, the
joints often separating, but rarely dehiscent. Leaves pinnate,
stipulate, but not stipellate. Tropical segmznts of genera with
greater diversity.

Tall shrubs with unequally pinnate leaves of 4-7 leaflet-
pairs. Flowers solitary or 2-3. Pod linear, flattened, striate,
dividing into 2 or more oblong, indehiscent joints.

Photography by M. Fagg.

Lotus

79. Ormocarpum

Herbs or dwarf shrubs.
Leaves unequally pinnate, of from 3 to 30 leaflet-
pairs. Pod stipitate, separating into 2 or more short,
flat, usually indehiscent, reticulate joints. Herbs,

annual or perennial. 80. Aeschynomene

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Leaves unequally pinnate, of from 3 to 6 or more
leaflet-pairs; stipules with a basal 2-lobed appendage.
Racemes reduced almost to sessile clusters. Pod
stipitate, enclosed by the persistent and enlarged
calyx; joints indehiscent. Perennial herbs. 81. Smithia
Leaves equally pinnate, of 2-5 leaflet-pairs. Racemes
umbel-like. Pod compressed and disc-like, circinate,
of 8-9 dehiscent joints. A single species of erect
herbs. 82. Cyclocarpa

VI. Filaments united in a closed tube, the adaxial one free or
united; anthers uniform. Flowers in terminal or axillary
racemes, purple, blue, pink or white. Calyx with 2 upper lobes
or teeth = united and the lower 3 acute or acuminate. Ovules
numerous to 2. Style inflexed or incurved; stigma terminal.
Pod exserted from the calyx, flat, jointed, the joints separating
into 1-seeded indehiscent segments; seeds not strophiolate.
Herbs or shrubs, pinnately 3 or 1 foliolate, the terminal leaflet
with 2 stipels, the lateral when present with 1 stipel; stipules
usually striate and membranous. Tropical, 1 or 2 pan-

continental.
(i) A genus of great diversity which provides the key
characters for the group. 83. Desmodium

(ii) Leaves 1 foliolate. Adexial filament free. Ovules numerous.
Pod free from calyx.
Flowers in slender terminal, rarely axillary, racemes,
the pedicels usually in pairs, small. Calyx deeply
divided, the lobes stiff and dry, the 2 uppermost often
united into 1. Pod erect, straight, almost terete, or
flattened but thick; joints ovate or globular, or trun-
cate at each end. Tropical herbs. 84. Alysicarpus
Flowers in terminal, pendulous racemes, clustered
in the axils of setaceous bracts. Calyx of 4 short,
angular lobes. Ovary surrounded by a tubular disc;
style curved, spirally twisted; stigma lateral. Pod
linear, compressed or somewhat inflated; joints
unequally-sided, 4-5 times longer than broad. A
single species of climbing shrubs. 85. Hanslia
(iii) Leaves 3-foliolate. Adaxial filament free from at most the
middle of the tube. Pod free from calyx.
Flowers in terminal racemes, in clusters of 2-3 to
each stipule-like bract. Calyx of 2 upper almost fully
united lobes, the lower 3 acute. Ovary with a thin
tubular disc around the base, 2-ovuled. Pod straight,
flat, of 2 orbicular, narrowly truncate joints. Tropical
perennial herbs. 86. Dicerma
Flowers umbellate on axillary short peduncles. Calyx
of 4 lobes. Ovary with several ovules. Pod somewhat
falcate, of several square or orbicular-truncate joints.
Tropical trees or shrubs. 87. Dendrolobium
(iv) Leaves 3 or 1 foliolate, or rarely more in Uraria. Adaxial
filament free. Jocints of pod ovate, folded back upon each
other within the calyx. Flowers in terminal racemes, purple
or yellow. Tropical herbs or dwarf shrubs.
Calyx broadly campanulate, of equal broad lobes, enlarged
after flowering. Flowers small, the pedicels in pairs..
Herbs. 88. Christia
Calyx of subulate lobes, the 2 upper shorter, remain-
ing small. Flowers reversed by the inflexing of the
paired pedicels. Herbs or dwarf shrubs. 89. Uraria

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@@@ 47 @@@



VII. Filaments all united in a closed tube; anthers alternately long
and short. Flowers in terminal and axillary loose spikes, each
enclosed by a pair of oblique striate bracts, yellow and red.
Calyx small and thin, of unequal lobes, the upper 2 united.
Ovules several to numerous. Pod with the upper suture almost
straight, the lower deeply indented; joints several, flat, smooth
or bristly, indehiscent; seeds not strophiolate.
Leaves digitate, of 2 or 4 often pellucid-punctate leaflets;
stipules strate, often punctate and produced beyond their
attachment; stipels absent. Herbs. 90. Zornia

VIIl. Filaments united into a split sheath, the adaxial one free or
partly united with the others; anthers uniform. Flowers axillary,
small, in clusters, pink or purple. Calyx with almost equal
lobes, the 2 upper partly united. Pod indehiscent, flat, ovate to
orbicular, reticulate, with 1 seed not strophiolate. Leaves
pinnately 3-foliolate, not glandular.
Erect shrubs, stipulate but not stipelate. Standard not
appendaged style filiform with a small terminal stigma.
Temperate. 91. Lespedezia
Climbing herbs, stipulate and stipelate, the stipules (as
in 91) narrow and not pearsistent. Standard with inflexed
lobes at the base. Style thickened above, incurved, with a
capitate stigma. Tropical. 92. Phylacium

Weed Control in Gardens of Australian Plants
by C. J. Borough

A weed can be defined as — ‘a plant out of place’. A plant such as
Macrozamia communis, which has inedible leaves and poisonous fruit, is
considered a weed by graziers but thought to be a highly desirable plant by
those who see beauty in its intricate leaf shape and large cones. Probably
the majority of Australian native plants cultivated in gardens could be classed
as weeds in specific situations. To the gardener specialising in native plants
weeds could embrace all non-indigenous plants plus some indigenous species.
Weeds compete with the desirable plants for moisture and nutrients and,
in the eyes of the beholder, look ‘out of place’. Australians are increasingly
establishing gardens devoted entirely to Australian native plants but
subsequent invasion by weeds may reduce growth of the desired plants
and alter the character of the garden. There is little information available
that specifically relates to the problem of weed control in native gardens.

Weed control in native gardens must be able to cope with a wide
range of species without adversely affecting desired plants. The three basic
methods of achieving weed control are:

MECHANICAL — CHEMICAL — BIOLOGICAL.

MECHANICAL WEED CONTROL

In agriculture, mechanical control of weeds is achieved through broad-
area cultivation of the soil. In a native garden broad-area cultivation is only
practicable prior to establishment but local cultivation such as the removal
of individual weeds is probably the most widely practised form of weed
control. The major disadvantage with this form of control is damage to
roots of desirable plants which, in the case of some native plants, are
reputed to be relatively intolerant of soil disturbance.

Considerable improvement in the ability to control weeds can be gained
by the use of mulch, particularly when combined with a physical barrier
between mulch and soil. Mulches such as pine bark, wood-chips and gravel

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@@@ 48 @@@



Indigofera australis Photography by A. McWhirter.

This Indigofera is a widespread shrub whnich, when regularly pruned, makes a
valuable spring display. Description on page 114.

are commonly used to assist moisture retention. Seeds will not germinate
readily in these mulches and those that do germinate are mostly easy to
remove. Extractives from some mulches may retard plant growth, however,
and the breakdown of wood chip mulches depletes soil nitrogen. The
addition of a physical barrier between soil and mulch, such as newspaper
or plastic, retards the growth of weeds through the mulch from seeds
oresent in the soil or from vegetative growth of plants in the soil. Newspaper
is a good barrier allowing movement of water into the soil and breaking
down after the initial value of the barrier is diminished. Plastic is widely
used but on heavy soils the ground is kept too wet encouraging root rots
whilst on light soils it prevents entry of moisture into the soil (W. Martin,
pers. comm.), One disadvantage of the physical barrier, is that natural regene-
ration of desirable species may also be prevented.

CHEMICAL WEED CONTROL

The potential benefits of pesticides and inorganic fertilisers, particularly
during the establishment phase, are being recognised by many native
gardeners. Attention should also be given to chemical weedicides as a
means of weeding without mechanical disturbance of the soil. Weedicides
vary considerably in both their effectiveness, mode of action and relative
cost. They can be broadly classified by their action:

Foliage contact weedicides only effect those parts of the foliage that
are contacted by the chemical. They normally act rapidly and if used with
care can be used to selectively kill weeds growing between desired plants.
Relatively ineffective against plants with well developed root storage systems.

Foliage translocated weedicides are absorbed by the foliage and then
moved within the plant where they begin with effect basic physiological

Page 140—Vol. 10



@@@ 49 @@@



Swainsona galegifolia Photography by M. Fagg.
. This is a perennial shrub which should be pruned hard each winter for beautiful
display in spring. Description on page 123

functions. They act slowly compared to foliage contact weedicides but
have the ability to kill without complete coverage of the foliage.

Weedicides that act through the soil are difficult to categorise as either
contact or translocated. Soil applied weedicides can be used to kill existing
plants through root uptake but are more commonly used to exert an influence
on germinating weed seeds and are often termed ‘residuals’.

There is a large range of weedicides on the market consisting of
different mixes of chemicals. In agricultural situations weedicides are
formulated on their ability to selectively remove weeds from a crop. In
the industrial situation non-selective features are desirable to obtain control
of a broad spectrum of weeds. In a native garden the range of desired
species is large as is the range of weed species and localised control of
a broad spectrum of weeds is the requirement. To assist in the evaluation
of the suitability of weedicides for use in native gardens | have selected
some of the weedicide chemicals used in preparations available to the
general public for a discussion of their properties.

Paraquat and diquat are quarternary ammonium compounds that are
commonly available. They are foliage contact weedicides with some foliage
translocation features. They are rapidly absorbed by the foliage and act
quickly. Paraquat is most effective on grasses. They are inactivated by
adsorption immediately on contact with soil. The concentrated liquid form
of paraquat in particular is dangerous to humans and great care must
be exercised in handling. For this reason these chemicals are often sold
in granular form to be dissolved and used as a very dilute liquid.

2,4-D and MCPA are phenoxyacetic acids that are widely used to
control herbaceous plants. They are readily translocated within the plant
where they act on growth regulation mechanisms. Both are broken down

Page 141—Vol. 10



@@@ 50 @@@



in the soil within a few weeks of application. Although they have relatively
low toxicity to adults in the concentrated form there has been some suggestion
of foetal damage from mothers drinking contaminated water.

2,4,5-T is also a phenoxyacetic acid but it is used to kill woody plants.
It is absorbed through stems as well as foliage and acts in the same way
as 2,4-D and MCPA but is much more persistent in the soil.

Aminotriazole (amitrole) enters plants both through the foliage and the
roots and is readily translocated. It results in chlorotic shoots due to
interference with chlorophyll production. It is relatively non-selective and
has found use for weed control in industrial situations when combined with
‘residual’ weedicides.

Glyphosate is a recently developed chemical that enters through
foliage and stems and is readily translocated. It appears to influence plant
metabolism being most effective when applied during growth periods. It
has been found to be extremely effective in killing weeds with underground
storage systems such as nut grass, couch grass and sheep sorrel. It is
rendered inactive once in contact with the soil.

Dalapon (2,2 DPA) is a translocated herbicide which is particularly
toxic to grasses. It is most active when applied to the foliage but also
produces effects when taken up from the soil. It only persists for a few
weeks in soil and has low toxicity.

Simazine and atrazine are substituted triazines that are commonly used
for control through the soil although the more soluble atrazine can enter
through the foliage. The major use of these chemicals is to prevent develop-
ment of germinating weed seeds but at high concentrations they can also
be used to kill established plants.

Monuron and diuron are two of the many urea derived weedicides. They
are absorbed through roots and are often used agriculturally as ‘pre-
emergents’ controlling the germination of weed species. They persist in the
soil for long periods and are particularly dangerous for use in garden
situations.

Weedicides most suited to use in native gardens are those with
minimal soil persistence. Combinations of paraquat and diquat are useful
for the control of a wide range of weeds with minimum risk to desired
plants with accidental contact. However a number of weed species such
as nut grass and couch grass will be relatively unaffected. Dalapon (2,2
DPA) is useful against persistent grass species and thus safe for use
amongst most native plants commonly found in gardens. Glyphosate,
marketed commercially as ROUNDUP*, is my choice combining broad
spectrum coverage with no effect on the soil. Great care must be exercised
in spraying to avoid accidental drift onto desired plants but if reasonable
precautions are taken problems are minimal. It is wise to treat all weedicides
with caution. Concentrated chemicals should only be handled with gloves
and care taken not to inhale vapours when spraying.

Chemical weedicides are applied either through plant foliage or through
the soil. A dilute solution of weedicide applied as a mist spray is the most
effective method of foliar application. Most weedicides require the addition
cf a surfactant to spread the spray droplets on leaf surfaces and thus allow
maximum uptake. Household detergents are often satisfactory for this purpose.
Successful spraying requires an even, fine flow of spray that can be directed
to avoid desirable plants. Spraying during still conditions minimises risk of
accidental drift. Spray units that utilise air stored under pressure and that
have an on/off trigger control allow the degree of control required. For
soil application dripper bars that give even coverage of large droplets
are widely used.

*Registered trade mark of Monsanto Australia Ltd.

BIOLOGICAL WEED CONTROL

Biological control using insects is well known to most Australians by
the example of the destruction of prickly pear by the introduced moth borer
Cactoblastis cactorum. In South Africa researchers are raising colonies of

Page 142—Vol. 10



@@@ 51 @@@



a seed eating weevil to help control the spread of Hakea sericea. This type
of control is not of practical significance to the native gardener faced with a
broad spectrum of weeds but other forms of biological control are most
effective. Weeds, as well as looking out of place, compete strongly with
the desired plants for moisture, nutrients and sometimes light.

The key to biological control by competition is to ensure that the
desirable species dominate to such an extent that weeds cannot successfully
compete. At the planting stage all efforts should be made to ensure plants
establish themselves quickly. Only vigorous plants should be selected from
the nursery and care exercised in handling and planting. Cultivation around
the area to be planted will kill existing weeds and other root competition
allowing rapid establishment of the new plant. Fertiliser applied at the base
of the plant or in the planting hole will aid the plant in establishment and
although weeds will also be stimulated control is easier on a small area
than over a wide area. As the crowns of closely spaced plants begin to
close, shading will suppress the growth of most weeds which tend to be
pioneer species requiring high light levels to flourish.

CONCLUSIONS

Weed control in native gardens is essential for the preservation of an
Australian character and to ensure the successful establishment and
continued growth of desired species. The choice of weed control method
depends on the nature and extent of the weed problem. Chemical weedicides
have a place in native gardens where minimal soil disturbance is desirable.
A sensible combination of mechanical, chemical and biological techniques
will probably be the most suitable approach to weed control in native
gardens.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I would like to thank Mr. W. Martin of the A.C.T. City Parks Adminlstration for hls

valued criticism.

FURTHER READING:

The Australian Weed Control Handbook, third editicn) by J. T. Swarbrick (Plant Press,
Toowoomba, Qld.)

Weed Control Handbook — Volume 1. Principles Edited by J. D. Fryer and S. A. Evans
(Blackwell Scientific Publications, Oxford, K.).

MAGAZINES, BOOKS, BROCHURES, CATALOGUES,
PRICE LISTS, OFFICE STATIONERY AND
ADVERTISING LITERATURE

* Consistent Quality and Service
with reasonable cost, will remove
most of your problems.

SURREY BEATTY & SONS PTY. LTD.

43 Rickard Road, Chipping Norton, N.S.W. 2170
Telephone (02) 602-7404, 602-3126

Page 143—Vol. 10



@@@ 52 @@@



NINDETHANA SEED SERVICE

LARGEST SELECTION OF NATIVE SEED IN AUSTRALIA

SEND 20¢ STAMP FOR FREE CATALOGUE

AVAILABLE IN 50¢ pkts, gram lots or kgs.

ADDRESS: NINDETHANA, NARRIKUP, W.A. §326

BODDY’'S — EASTERN PARK NURSERY

Large range of popular and rare varieties in tubes. S.A.E. for Catalogue.
Specialists in despatch.
Lot 2, Farm Road, Cheltenham, 3192
Phone (03) 550-5987; A/H 509-2804

NATIVES

NEWCASTLE
REGION

NORTHRIDGE

NATIVE PLANT NURSERY (049) 87-2397
RANGERS ROAD
on the Western Shore of the Grahamstown Dam

Turn East off The Pacific Hwy. 4 km North of the Town

COTTAGE

RAYMOND TERRACE, 2324

BANKSIA NURSERY
Waratah Highway, Elliott, 7325

Phone: 36-3128
(Prop.: RON MURRAY)

SITUATED 100 YDS. NORTHSIDE OF
ELLIOT STORE, FIVE MILES FROM
SOMERSET — OPEN 7 DAYS WEEK
GROWER OF AUSTRALIAN
NATIVE FLORA AND LAND-
SCAPE ACCENT PLANTS
SEND S.A.E. FOR CATALOGUE

FLORAGLEN PROPAGATION NURSERY
Lot 2, Lyppards Road, Cranbourne
Vic. 3977

TUBES

A WIDE RANGE OF QUALITY
NATIVES AVAILABLE IN 2" TUBES
PRICED FROM 17c¢c

Ph.: (0593 78-2591 or 783-6312 A.H.

BOOKS ON NATIVE PLANTS

LARGE SELECTION—SEND S.A.E.
FOR LIST TO

Gatton Newsagency & Bookshop
Railway Street, Gatton, Q. 4343

Phone: (075) 62-1057

““SEEDS OF THE WORLD""
Indigenous and Exotic Seeds
P.0. Bex 1037, East Nowra, NSW 2540
1,200 varieties of unusual native seeds,
palm seeds and exotic seeds from all
over the world.
Available in $1 packs.
Send $1 to cover list and postage, this
entitles sender to a free $1 bonus pack

on first order.

You really see the flowers on Westrail's
“Unbelievable 6 Day Wildflower Study

Tours of W.A.

Aug-Sept-Oct
A Qualified Botanist Accompanies Every Tour

® Includes motel accommodation & meals ® Picnic lunches & teas
® Bookings: Westrail Travel Centre, City Arcade, Perth. 326 2811

® Authorised Travel Agents.
Western Australian Government Railways

|
Westrail

WIRREANDA Wholesale Nursery

QUALITY—VARIETY—VALUE

Over 20,000 Native and Exotic

Trees, Shrubs & Indoor Plants

Public and Trade Welcome

Open 7 days — Send S.A.E. For List

169 Wirreanda Road, Ingleside, 2101. Phone 450-1400

Page 144—Vol. 10



@@@ 53 @@@



MOLYNEUX NURSERIES Pty Ltd

Belfast Road, Montrose, 3765. Phone: 728-1353
trading as AUSTRAFLORA NURSERY

.

‘|

Open 7 Days a Week
MON.-SAT., 9 a.m.-5.30 p.m.; SUNDAY, 10 a.m.-5.30 p.m.

The widest range of Australian Plants is also available
through our Agencies

ADELAIDE:

Lawry’s Native Nursery
Star and Arrow Road

CANBERRA:
Rodney’s Nursery
24 Beltana Road

COROMANDEL, EAST. PIALLIGO,
Phone: (08) 388-2118. Phone: (062) 73 2635.
SYDNEY: WERRIBEE:

Yallaroo Gardens

Grevillea Nursery
R.M.B. 5179 Wattle Tree Road

Derrimut Road

HOLGATE Via GOSFORD WERRIBE
Phone: (043) 67-7023. Phone: (03) 741-3100.
WODONGA:
Mann‘s of Wodonga Garden Centre
116-126 High Street WODONG
Phone: (060) 24-1066.
AUSTRAFLORA IS AUSTRALIAN PLANTS
Generally 150-200 species available, many rare
Open Wed. to Sun. 10am to 5pm and by arrangement.
Cedar Wattles Native Plants
89 BLUES POINT RD. NORTH SYDNEY. PHONE 929-6583
DEANES ORCHID NURSERY

Speclallsing In Australlan Natlve Orchlds
Please send for descriptive list. Plants sent anywhere.
Nursery open every weekend — Weekdays phone (02) 651-1798
29 HEMERS ROAD, DURAL, N.S.W. 2119

JOHN and ANNA TOPP

NATIVE PLANT NURSERY
Lot 58, Cranbourne-Frankston Rd., Cranbourne Sth., Vic.—Ph.: (059) 78-2288
(300 metres east of Hastings-Dandenong Road intersection)
WIDE RANGE OF GOOD QUALITY PLANTS AT NEAR WHOLESALE PRICES
Closed Tues. and Wed. — Wholesale and Retail

LAKKAR‘ RUSSELL and SHARON COSTIN, Retail & Wholesale
growers of A'QaltiveFTrees,PS,hrubsb Gr%undl ¢?‘overf”and
reepers — Also Ferns, Palms, Cycads, Indoor Plants
NATIVE PLANT Specialists in Honey Flora
NURSERY Many selected Natives unique to Queensland as well
(Lakkari means Banksia
Integrifolia)

as new cultivars and hybrids.
477 REDLAND BAY ROAD, CAPALABA, QLD. 4157
Open 7 days — Phone: Brisbane 208-411

CLEARVIEW NURSERY, W. Cane, Box 19, Maffra, Vic. 3860. Specialist in developed plants

TASMANIAN FOREST SEEDS

T. WALDUCK
‘““‘Summerleas Farm', Kingston, Tas. 7150
All Tasmanlan Tree Specles and
Ornamental Shrubs.

Send S.A.E. for free list.

Sales by packet or In bulk

Support nurseryman
advertising in
AUSTRALIAN PLANTS

Page 145—Vol. 10



@@@ 54 @@@



PRESERVATION BY CULTIVATION

Closed Tuesdays

FI.ORATLANDS

KARIONG, vla GOSFORD, N.S.W. 2250 — Prop. Brlan & Lyn Parry
A large varlety of the most popular natlve plants at nursery

PHONE: Gosford 40-1142

Send $1.50 for descriptlve catalogue.

UTIMGU NATIVE PLANT NURSERY
WHOLESALE AND RETAIL

Suppliers of: TREES, SHRUBS,
GROUNDCOVERS, FERNS AND
HANGING BASKETS.

37 Sorbiston Street, Wellers Hill, 4121
Open 7 days—Phone: (07) 397-5706

PARSONS NATIVE PLANT
NURSERY

Trees, Shrubs, Ground Cover, Climbers
Speclallsing In Grevilleas

Open Thur.,, Frl.,, Sat, 9-5; Sun.,, 9-1
Warrandyte Road, Research, Vic. 3098

FOREST
NATIVE

CATALOGUE AUSTRALIAN
NATIVE PLANTS FOR
N.S.W. GARDENS

$3.50 posted

ba Rd., Duffy’s F , N.S.W. 2084
. NURSERY 9 Namba uffy's ores:oz) W. 20i

(beslde Waratah Park),

450-1785

MICHIE’'S KENTLYN NATIVE
PLANT NURSERY

Speclallsing In Australlan Plants
Beth & Bob Michle Invite you to call
96c George's River Road, Kentlyn, 2560

Phone: Campbelltown 25-1583
Closed Tuesday and Wednesday only

Cranebrook Native Nursery
R23 Cranebrook Rd., Cranebrook, NSW

4 mlles north of Penrith, between
Tadmore and Taylor Rds.

Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Sundays.
(047) 77 4256 — No Mail Orders

CLOVERDALE PARK NURSERY

57 CLOVERDALE ROAD, DOOLANDELLA, 4077 (D. HANGER)

QUEENSLAND Hakea fraseri, Kunzea flavescens, Buckinghamia celsissima,

NATIVE PLANTS Cryptocarya laevigata v. Bowei, Ervatamia angustisepala,
Guilfoylia monostylis, Jasminum volubile, Lagerstroemia

including: archeriana, Microcitrus australis.

DAVID & MARGARET'S NATIVE FLORA
We have thousands of plants for your
selection. Set amidst acres of land-
scaped garden areas. Located two
miles past Woori Yallock at Braeside
Drive Launching Place, Vic.
(059) 64-7631, THURS. to SUN.
(Established 1974)

WIRRIMBIRRA

Hume HIighway, between Tahmoor and
Bargo, N.S.W. 2574
AUSTRALIAN PLANTS

Wide Range — Phone: Bargo 84-1112
OPEN SEVEN DAYS A WEEK

Huge selectlon from ground

Cnr BELLEVUE CRES and SEAFORD RD SEAFORD

TRV SAUSHELES e oo s o

couecrors NURSERIES KeVi Rk 4"

Open Saturday and Sunday
Vic. 3198 (Closed Mon. and Tues.)

BELBRA NURSERY

In the heart of the Gramplans

LARGE RANGE OF AUSTRALIAN
NATIVES

Closed Wednesday only
BOX 12, HALL'S GAP, VIC. 3381

NAROOMA NATIVE NURSERY
(H. & N. RYAN, Proprietors)

15 TILBA ST., NAROOMA, N.S.W., 2548

PHONE 132
Good varlety of Natlve Plants — Open
all week except Sunday morning.

First Class Hollday Accommodation

avallable at Nursery slte.
Write for Brochure

NANGANA NATIVE PLANT NURSERY
COCKATOO-WOOR! YALLOCK ROAD
6.4 km from Cockatoo, Vic.

Large range, including over 100 Grevilleas
5 cm to bucket size)

PHONE: (059) 68-8337
Open every day except Tues. and Wed.
(also closed June and July)

GRASSTREE
NATIVE PLANT NURSERY

BROWN'S RD., ROSEBUD SOUTH, 3939
(Opposlite Hyslops Rd.)

10 a.m. to 5p.m. — Wed. to Sun. Ino.
Over 1000 Specles In Propagation.

Nursery In Natural Bushland Setting.

Page 146—Vol. 10



@@@ 55 @@@



Past Issues of ‘“Australian Plants’’ Available

Because of the vast wealth of our flora there is very little repetition, each volunie
becoming a valuable reference book in itself. Each volume has a separate abridged
index, but a composite index for volumes 1-8 incl. will be available shortly as a separate
book from the Editor for $2.00 including postage.

It is intended to maintain all volumes in print in bound hard-cover form, beautifully
presented with gold-lettered green vinyl covering. Each volume has bound with it
another Society book as indicated below. The retail price is $15.00, but they are
available by mail from the Editor at $12.00 each up to 1-1-80. Postage 50c per vol.

VOLUME No. 1. Issues 1-12 — to be reprinted in 1980. Watch for announcements.

VOLUME No. 2. Issues 13-20, no longer avallable—to be reprinted in 1980.
VOLUME No. 3. Issues 21-28, bound with “"Catalogue of Cultivated Australian Plants’’.
VOLUME No. 4. Issues 29-36, with ‘“West. Aust. Plants for Hortlculture—Part 1%
VOLUME No. 5. Issues 37-44, bound with “The Language of Botany''.

VOLUME No. 6. Issues 45-52, with ““West. Aust. Plants for Hortlculture—Part 1.
VOLUME No. 7. Issues 53-60, bound with ““North Australian Plants”.

VOLUME No. 8. Issues 61-68, bound with “The Cradle of Incense’.

VOLUME No. 9. Issues 69-76. Each issue to date available at $1.00 post free.

VOLUME No. 10. Issues 77-84. Each issue to date available at $1.00 post free.

Other Books Published by the Society:

“AUSTRALIAN INDIGENOUS ORCHIDS", by A. W. Dockrill, $30.00 including postage.
The only complete reference to Australian epiphytic orchids and tropical terrestrials.

“WEST AUSTRALIAN PLANTS", ‘A descriptive catalogue’ by Dr. J. S. Beard, $7.50 plus
60c postage. The only complete reference to the flora of Western Australia.

““WEST AUSTRALIAN PLANTS FOR HORTICULTURE"”, Parts 1 & 2, by K. Newby, each
$7.50 plus 60c postage. A valuable guide to the plams with horticultural potential.

“NORTH AUSTRALIAN PLANTS", by Jenny Harmer, $7.50 plus 60c postage. The most
comprehenslve reference to plants of the Darwin area available.

““CRADLE OF INCENSE", ‘The Genus Prostanthera’ by G. W. Althofer, $12.00 plus 60c
postage. The only reference to our Mint Bushes.

“THE LANGUAGE OF BOTANY", by C. N. Debenham, $3.90 plus 60c postage. An
outstanding reference to botanical terms, with examples from Australian flora.

““AUSTRALIAN PLANT INDEX—Vols. 1-8". A comprehensive index to all species, authors,
etc. $2.00 including postage. Not available until July, 1979.

A HORTICULTURAL GUIDE TO AUSTRALIAN PLANTS". Large colour plates of species
with descriptions, etc., on rear for filing as issued in a D-ring binder. Sets of 32
sheets in each of 1-4 at $2.50 per set, plus 50c postage; binder $2.00 plus 80c
postage. The whole series, sets 1-4 with binder — $10.00 plus $1.60 postage.

““ACACIAS OF NEW SOUTH WALES"”, by I|. Armitage. All N.S.W. wattles described and
illustrated by sketches and colour. $7.50 plus 50c postage.

The Society for Growing Australian Plants

The Society is for people interested in the Australian flora, its preservation and
cultivation in the wild, in parks, and in public and private gardens. Preservation of our
magnificent flora will, in the long term, depend on the knowledge accumulated, on its
cultivation under a wide range of conditions. We hope to learn more about this by
cultivating wildflowers in the garden, encouraging research on this aspect, and to
record this in ‘‘Australian Plants". i .

The Society offers many services in all States, such as meetings, instruction, shows,
field outings, seed, propagating aids and friendship, much on a mail basis for those
who cannot or do not wish to attend meetings.

Enquiries for membership should be directed to:

SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—N.S.W. REGIO
President: Mr. Hugh Stacy 16 Booyong Avenue, Lugarno, NSW.. 2210.
Secretary: Mr. Ray obb Street, Revesby, N.S.W., 221
SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—OUEENSLAND REGION
President: Mr. L. Smith, Lot 29, Vores Road, Petrie, 4502.
Secretary: Mrs. R. Reid, P.0O. Box 809, Fortitude Valley, Qld., 4006.
SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—SOUTH AUSTRALIAN REGION (Inc.):
President: M. W. Pybus, 41 Harrow Road, Somerton Park, S.A., 5044
Secretary: Wyn M. Spier, Box 10, P.0., Blackwood, S.A., 5051.
SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—TASMANIAN REGION:
President: Mrs. Sib Corbett, 35 Pillinger Drive, Fern Tree, Tas. 7101.
Secretary: Mrs. Chris Howells, ‘“Gwastadnant,”” Sandfly, Tas. 7104.
SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—VICTORIAN REGION:
President: Mr. R. G. McDonald, P.0O. Box 9, Upper Ferntree Gully, Vic., 3156.
Secretary: (Sister) E. R. Bowman, 4 Homebush Crescent, Hawthorn East, Victoria,
3123. Please do not call at private home—enquiries by telephone or mail only.
SOCIETY FOR GROWING AUSTRALIAN PLANTS—CANBERRA REGION
President: Mr. Geoff Butler, 29 Milford Street, Latham, A.C.T., 2608.
Secretary: Mrs. Christine Tnam P.0. Box 207, Civic Square, ACT 2608.
WEST AUSTRALIAN WILDFLOWER soc. (Inc.):
President: Dr. N. Marchant, P.O. Box 64, Nedlands, W.A., 6009.
Secretary: Miss B. Britton, P.O. Box 64, Nedlands, W.A., 6009.

“AUSTRALIAN PLANTS” IS AUSTRALIA'S NATIONAL PRESERVATION JOURNAL
(A non-profit making venture, produced quarterly, dedicated to preservation by cultivation)
PUBLISHING SECTION FOR SOCIETIES—Produced as a non-profit venture.
Managing Editor: W. H. Payne, assisted by P. D. Leak; Despatch by E. Hubner,
H. Jones. Do not telephone or call at private home—enquiries by mail only.
NON-MEMBERS: You may receive the next 4 issues direct to your home by
forwarding an annual subscription of $3.00. Overseas subscnpt:_on $4.20 Aust., £2.80
In English currency or $6.50 U.S. Send to The Editor, ““Australian Plants’’, 860 Henry
Lawson Drive, Picnic Point, N.S.W., 13

COPYRIGHT — All material copyright as directed by authors.
Page 147—Vol. 10



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Burtonia scabra

A magnificent shrub from Western Australia as described on page 103.
It is significant that we finish the issue with this plant. All the other species
illustrated are reasonably hardy and can be grown in the situations recom-
mended with some assurance. This plant is difficult to establish and main-
tain. What is needed is a planned effort by a competent horticulturalist to
study the needs of this plant. Who will try? This could be one of the horti-
cultural marvels of the Australian Flora. —Editor.

Surrey Beatty & Sons—Printers.