Gastrolobium minus explained

Gastrolobium minus, also known as broad-leaved brachysema, is a prostrate shrub which is endemic to the south-west of Western Australia. It is a member of the family Fabaceae and of the genus Gastrolobium, which contains many toxic species, however the toxicity of this species is unknown.

Description

The plant grows to about 1 metre in diameter and has leaves that are oval in shape with a dark green upper surface and a silky undersurface.[1] The flowers appear predominantly between July and October in the species' native range. These are orange-red[1] with a standard that has recurved margins and yellow markings[2]

Distribution and habitat

The species occurs in open Jarrah (Eucalyptus marginata) forest near Mount Barker and Cranbrook, with an outlying population in Fitzgerald River National Park.[2]

Cultivation

The species has been popular in cultivation for many years, often distributed under the incorrect name of Brachysema latifolium.[3] The plant may be used as a groundcover on embankments or in large containers or hanging baskets.[1] It prefers light shade and good drainage, and is somewhat frost-tolerant.[1]

Notes and References

  1. Book: Greig, D.. The Australian Gardener's Wildflower Catalogue. Angus & Robertson. Australia . 1987 . 0-207-15460-0.
  2. Chandler, G. T. . M.D. Crisp . L.W. Cayzer . R.J. Bayer . amp . 2002 . Monograph of Gastrolobium (Fabaceae: Mirbelieae) . . 15 . 5. 619–739 . 10.1071/SB01010 .
  3. Book: Wrigley J.W. . Fagg M. . 1979. Australian Native Plants. William Collins Publishers Sydney, Australia. 0-00-216416-7.