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Description
Gastrolobium Grandiflorum, commonly known as the Large-Flowered Poison Pea, is a shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the southwestern part of Western Australia and is known for its striking, large, and vividly colored flowers. It can grow up to 1-3 meters tall and has a woody stem with hairy branches. This shrub is highly toxic and can cause severe illness or even death if ingested by humans or animals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Gastrolobium |
Appearance
The Gastrolobium Grandiflorum has long, narrow leaves that are dark green and hairy. The flowers are large, bright pink, and purple in color, with a yellow spot in the center. They bloom in the spring and summer, and the shrub produces a lot of flowers during this time. The fruit of the plant is a pod that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Gastrolobium Grandiflorum requires well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It can tolerate drought conditions but needs regular watering during the growing season. The plant should be fertilized with a slow-release fertilizer in the springtime. This shrub can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels but prefers slightly acidic soil. It grows well in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Common Pests and Diseases
Gastrolobium Grandiflorum is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and thrips. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. This shrub is also susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Gastrolobium Grandiflorum is native to the southwestern part of Western Australia and can be found in sandy or gravelly soils in heathlands and woodlands. It is also commonly found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and cleared land.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Gastrolobium Grandiflorum poisonous?
A: Yes, it is highly toxic and can cause severe illness or even death if ingested by humans or animals.
Q: How often should I water Gastrolobium Grandiflorum?
A: This shrub can tolerate drought conditions but needs regular watering during the growing season.
Q: What type of soil does Gastrolobium Grandiflorum prefer?
A: It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Gastrolobium Grandiflorum?
A: It grows well in USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Related Plants
- Gastrolobium Calycinum
- Gastrolobium Celsianum
- Gastrolobium Incurvum
- Gastrolobium Niveum
References
- https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/gnp1/gastrolobium-grandiflorum.html
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/poison-pea/poison-pea-shrub.htm
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/305719874_Phytochemical_and_biological_studies_of_Gastrolobium_grandiflorum_and_related_species
