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Description
Chorizema Rhombeum, commonly known as the Flame Pea or Red Pencil, is a stunning flowering plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to the southwestern region of Western Australia and can grow up to 2 meters in height. The Flame Pea is a popular choice for gardeners and horticulturists for its vibrant red and orange flowers that bloom in winter and spring. Its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds, making it an excellent addition to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Chorizema |
Appearance
The Flame Pea is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 2 meters in height and 1.5 meters in width. Its leaves are small and oval-shaped, with a length of 10-30 mm and a width of 5-20 mm. They are arranged alternately on the stem and have a dark green color. The flowers of the Flame Pea are its most notable feature, with bright red and orange colors that bloom in winter and spring. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches and have a tubular shape, with a length of 20-30 mm and a width of 10-15 mm.
Care Guide
The Flame Pea is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your Flame Pea:
Water: Water your Flame Pea regularly, especially during its growing season. Make sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize your Flame Pea once every six months with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer before the start of the growing season and again mid-season.
Soil: The Flame Pea prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Make sure that the soil is rich in organic matter and has good drainage.
Sunlight: The Flame Pea prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The Flame Pea is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Flame Pea is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases if the soil is too wet. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to prevent these issues.
Habitat
The Flame Pea is native to the southwestern region of Western Australia, where it grows in sandy soils and rocky outcrops. It prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow the Flame Pea in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the Flame Pea in a container. Make sure that the container has good drainage and is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Flame Pea?
A: Fertilize your Flame Pea once every six months with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer before the start of the growing season and again mid-season.
Q: Does the Flame Pea attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the Flame Pea’s flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Can I propagate the Flame Pea from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate the Flame Pea from cuttings. Take a cutting from a healthy plant, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cutting in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and keep it moist until it roots.
Related Plants
- Chorizema Cordatum
- Chorizema Illicifolium
- Chorizema Varium
References
- “Flame Pea.” PlantNet, plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Chorizema~rhombeum.
- “Chorizema Rhombeum.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia), anpsa.org.au/c-rho.html.
- “Chorizema Rhombeum.” Royal Horticultural Society, rhs.org.uk/Plants/17842/i-Chorizema-rhombeum-i/Details.
