Swan River pea facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Swan River pea |
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G. celsianum
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| Gastrolobium celsianum (Lemaire) G.Chandler & Crisp
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The Gastrolobium celsianum, also known as the Swan River pea, is a beautiful low-growing plant. It is a type of shrub that grows only in the southwest part of Western Australia. This means it is endemic to that area, found nowhere else naturally!
The Swan River pea belongs to the Fabaceae family, which is also called the pea family. It is part of the Gastrolobium group of plants. Many plants in the Gastrolobium group can be harmful if eaten. However, the Swan River pea is safe and is even suggested for gardens by the Australian National Botanic Gardens.
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What is the Swan River Pea?
This plant can grow to be about 1 metre (3 feet) tall. It can also spread out up to 3 metres (10 feet) wide. Its leaves are shiny green on top and silvery underneath. They have an oval shape.
Flowers and Appearance
The Swan River pea has bright red flowers. These flowers have a special long, curved part called a keel. The flowers usually bloom between August and November in Australia. This is during their late winter and late spring seasons.
Where Does it Grow?
The Swan River pea naturally grows in the southwest of Western Australia. It likes sandy or gravelly soils. You can often find it near water, like along rivers or streams. It also grows in areas called mallee and woodlands. Here, it prefers flat areas or moist, low spots.
How Was it Named?
The Swan River pea was first officially described in 1844 by a botanist named Charles Lemaire. He published its description in a book called Horticulteur Francais. At that time, he named it Brachysema lanceolatum.
A New Name
Later, in 2002, two botanists, Gregory Chandler and Michael Crisp, studied the plant again. They moved this plant, along with other Brachysema species, into the Gastrolobium group. This is when they gave it its current name, Gastrolobium celsianum. They also named a related plant, Gastrolobium bracteolosum, as its own species.
Growing Swan River Pea in Gardens
This plant has been a popular choice for gardens for many years. It can grow well in many different types of soil. However, it needs good drainage, meaning water should not sit around its roots. The Swan River pea grows best in full sunlight, but it can also handle a little bit of shade.
