Daviesia Pachyphylla
Contents
Description
Daviesia Pachyphylla is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is commonly known as the ‘Thick-leaved Bitter Pea’ due to its thick, leathery leaves and bitter taste. This plant is native to the southwest of Western Australia and is known for its vibrant yellow flowers that bloom in winter and spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Daviesia |
Appearance
Daviesia Pachyphylla is a small to medium shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall. It has a woody stem and thick, leathery leaves that are about 1-2 cm long and 3-4 mm wide. The leaves are a dull green color and have a prominent midrib. The vibrant yellow flowers are about 1 cm long and are borne in clusters of 5-10. The fruit is a small, woody pod that contains one or two seeds.
Care Guide
Daviesia Pachyphylla is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you grow a healthy plant:
Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization. You can apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring if desired.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Use a mix of sand and loam to improve drainage.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Daviesia Pachyphylla is suitable for hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Daviesia Pachyphylla is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and do not water the plant excessively.
Yellowing Leaves: Yellowing leaves can be a sign of nutrient deficiency. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in spring to provide the plant with the necessary nutrients.
Habitat
Daviesia Pachyphylla is native to the southwest of Western Australia and is commonly found in heath and shrubland habitats. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sand, loam, and gravel. The plant is adapted to the Mediterranean climate of Western Australia and can tolerate drought and low nutrient soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Daviesia Pachyphylla be grown indoors?
A: No, this plant is not suitable for indoor growth.
Q: How often should I water Daviesia Pachyphylla?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering during the winter months.
Q: What is the best time to prune Daviesia Pachyphylla?
A: Prune the plant after flowering in spring to promote bushier growth.
Q: How long does it take for Daviesia Pachyphylla to bloom?
A: The plant blooms in winter and spring and can take several years to reach maturity and start blooming.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:
- Daviesia Cordata
- Daviesia Bursarioides
- Daviesia Alata
- Daviesia Mimosoides
References
- https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/interns-2009/daviesia-pachyphylla.html
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daviesia_pachyphylla
- https://www.australianplantsonline.com.au/daviesia-pachyphylla.html
