Long Grass Nature Refuge
Fauna and Flora Detail
WildMan
Wildlife Management System
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Scientific Name
Common Name
Type
Notes
The Darling Pea (Swainsona galegifolia) of inland New South Wales and Queensland is a long-lived shrubby perennial worth having in every garden because of its easy cultivation and very long flowering season. Branches grow annually from the crown and reach a height of about 1 m each year. In a crown crowded with new shoots, the outer ones tend to be pushed outward and lead to a more spreading shape, especially if the shrub is allowed ample room when it is first planted. In groups, plants support each other and lead to a more upright habit. Top growth is susceptible to frost and in a cold area such as Canberra, plants may be partly frosted. However, if this wood is cut out at the end of winter it is replaced by strong new stems. Branches are well clothed to ground level with fine pinnate leaves about 10 cm long. They are smooth and sometimes greyish, forming a bold, graceful outline, even without flowers. Flower spikes are up to 15 cm long and are held well on long stems. They open to sturdy pea flowers nearly 2.5 cm across in colours from pure white through clear pinks and mauves to magenta crimson; these are followed by balloon-like pods, often tinted pink. The best display is in November.
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