Hardenbergia violacea facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hardenbergia violacea |
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Hardenbergia
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H. violacea
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| Hardenbergia violacea (Schneev.) Stearn
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Hardenbergia violacea is a beautiful species of flowering plant. It belongs to the pea family called Fabaceae. This plant grows naturally in Australia, from Queensland all the way down to Tasmania.
In Australia, people call it by many common names. These include false sarsaparilla, purple coral pea, happy wanderer, and native lilac. Another name is waraburra, which comes from the Kattang language. Outside Australia, it is sometimes known as vine lilac or lilac vine.
About the Hardenbergia Plant
This plant is a strong, evergreen climber. It can grow very tall, sometimes over 6 meters (about 20 feet). Sometimes, it grows more like a small subshrub or bush.
Its flowers look like typical pea flowers. They are usually a bright violet color. However, you can also find them in white, pink, or other shades. The leaves are dark green and feel tough or leathery. You can easily see the veins on the leaves.
Surviving Bushfires
H. violacea is amazing because it can regrow itself. Even after a bushfire, its roots help it come back to life. A long time ago, early European settlers experimented with its roots. They thought the roots could be a substitute for sarsaparilla.
Growing Hardenbergia in Gardens
This plant grows in many different natural places. It is also very popular to grow in gardens around the world. Many different types, called cultivars, are now available for gardeners.
In mild and coastal areas of the UK, this plant is quite tough. It can survive where temperatures do not drop below about -5°C (23°F). However, it needs a sheltered spot, facing south or west. If it's too cold outside, you can grow it indoors. It does well in a sunny place, like an unheated conservatory or greenhouse. The Royal Horticultural Society has given it their Award of Garden Merit. This award means it is an excellent plant for gardens.
You can grow new plants from seeds. First, the seeds need a special treatment, like scarification. This helps them sprout. They grow best when the temperature is around 21°C (70°F). In nature, ants help spread the seeds around.
See also
In Spanish: Hardenbergia violacea para niños
