Contents
Description
Gastrolobium Spinosum, commonly known as Prickly Poison, is a shrub native to Western Australia. It grows up to 2 meters tall and has a spread of up to 1.5 meters. The plant is known for its small, bright yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months. Its leaves are simple and elongated, and the plant produces pods that contain small seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Gastrolobium |
Appearance
Gastrolobium Spinosum has a unique appearance with its elongated leaves and bright yellow flowers. The plant has a woody stem with a dense, prickly foliage that can deter animals from grazing on it. The leaves are up to 15 cm long and 1 cm wide, and they have a pointed tip. The flowers are small and tubular, and they grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The fruit of the plant is a small pod that contains the plant’s seeds.
Care Guide
Gastrolobium Spinosum is a hardy plant that requires very little maintenance. It is drought-tolerant and can handle poor soil conditions. However, it is essential to ensure that the plant has adequate drainage to prevent root rot.Water: This plant does not require frequent watering, but it is essential to ensure that the soil is moist during the growing season.Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary for this plant, but it can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season.Soil: Gastrolobium Spinosum can handle poor soil conditions, but it requires well-draining soil to prevent root rot.Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Gastrolobium Spinosum is hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gastrolobium Spinosum is susceptible to root rot if it is planted in poorly draining soil. The plant can also be affected by spider mites and other pests. It is essential to monitor the plant regularly for signs of disease or infestation.
Habitat
Gastrolobium Spinosum is native to Western Australia and can be found growing in sandy and gravelly soils in open woodlands and shrublands. The plant’s dense foliage and prickly stems help protect it from animal grazing and other environmental stresses.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Gastrolobium Spinosum poisonous?
A: Yes, the plant is highly toxic and can cause severe poisoning in animals and humans if ingested.
Q: Can Gastrolobium Spinosum be grown indoors?
A: No, the plant requires full sun and is not suitable for indoor growing conditions.
Q: How often should Gastrolobium Spinosum be fertilized?
A: Fertilization is not necessary for this plant, but it can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season.
Q: How tall does Gastrolobium Spinosum grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 2 meters tall.
Related Plants
- Gastrolobium Celsianum
- Gastrolobium Drummondii
- Gastrolobium Hypogaeum
- Gastrolobium Oxylobioides
References
- Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions. (2021). Gastrolobium spinosum. Wildflower search. https://florabase.dpaw.wa.gov.au/browse/profile/1867
- Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria. (n.d.). Gastrolobium spinosum. Plant database. https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/plants/plant-id/gastrolobium-spinosum
- Australian Government. (2021). Gastrolobium spinosum. Australian Biological Resources Study. https://biodiversity.org.au/nsl/services/rest/name/apni/123313/api/apni-format
