Common Name: Coral Pea

General Information

Hardenbergia violacea is an evergreen, climbing shrub growing from a long, carrot-like rootstock; it, produces stems up to 3 metres long that scramble over the ground and twine around other plants for support. Non-twining shrubby forms of the plant are sometimes found[].[].
The plant provides a tea and a dye, which are sometimes used locally. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in subtropical to tropical areas[].

Known Hazards

The foliage is reputed to cause colic in horses[].

Botanical References

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Range

Australia - Tasmania, South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland

Habitat

Climbs over low bushes by the coast and to nearby mountains[] in open forests and on heaths[]. Dry sclerophyll forest at elevations from 650 - 1,200 metres[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Evergreen Climber
Height	2.00 m
Pollinators	Insects
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Hardenbergia violacea is mainly native to southern and eastern Australia, where it can be found from the temperate zone of Tasmania to the tropics of northern Queensland. It is not very cold-hardy, able to tolerate temperatures falling to around -5°c for short periods when it is fully dormant[].
Prefers a sunny position, but also succeeds in light shade[]. Grows best ins a moist well-drained lime-free soil[], but it is adaptable to most soils[].
Any pruning is best carried out immediately after the plant has flowered[].
An ornamental plant, there are several named varieties[].
This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby[].

Edible Uses

The boiled leaves produce a slightly sweet and reasonably pleasant drink[, ]. At one time the roots were also reportedly used for this purpose[].

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

A grey-blue dye is obtained from the flowers[].

Propagation

Scarify the seed or pre-soak it for 24 hours in warm water[, ]. Sow spring in a warm greenhouse at 20°c[]. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Give the plants some protection from the cold for at least its first winter outdoors. Seed retains its viability for several years[].
Cuttings of half-ripe wood, mid summer in a frame.
Tip cuttings, taken in late spring, in moist sand in a frame[].