Contents
Description
Hardenbergia Comptoniana, also known as Native Lilac or Purple Coral Pea, is a member of the Fabaceae family. It is a woody vine that can grow up to 6 meters in length and produces attractive purple or pink flowers that bloom from winter to spring. It is native to Australia and is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Hardenbergia |
Appearance
Hardenbergia Comptoniana is a vigorous climber that can be trained to grow on a trellis, fence, or wall. It has glossy, dark green leaves that are elliptical or lanceolate in shape and up to 10 cm long. The flowers are pea-shaped and range in color from deep purple to pink, with a yellow or white center. They grow in clusters of up to 20 cm long and have a sweet fragrance. The plant produces long, narrow seed pods that contain 2-10 seeds.
Care Guide
To care for Hardenbergia Comptoniana, follow these guidelines:
Water
Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization
Feed the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and midsummer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil
Plant Hardenbergia Comptoniana in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH level should be slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0).
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Provide it with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering.
Hardiness Zones
Hardenbergia Comptoniana is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. It can tolerate mild frost but may require protection during severe winter weather.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hardenbergia Comptoniana is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it may be susceptible to root rot and fungal infections if overwatered. Use a well-draining soil mix and avoid overwatering to prevent these issues.
Habitat
Hardenbergia Comptoniana is native to southeastern Australia, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, and heathlands. It is often found growing on rocky slopes, along stream banks, and in open clearings.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hardenbergia Comptoniana grow in containers?
A: Yes, Hardenbergia Comptoniana can be grown in containers, but it will require regular pruning to keep it under control. Use a well-draining soil mix and provide adequate support for the plant to climb.
Q: How often should I fertilize Hardenbergia Comptoniana?
A: Feed the plant with a slow-release fertilizer in early spring and midsummer to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: What is the best way to propagate Hardenbergia Comptoniana?
A: Hardenbergia Comptoniana can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Take cuttings in early spring or late summer and root them in a well-draining soil mix.
Q: Is Hardenbergia Comptoniana poisonous to pets?
A: Hardenbergia Comptoniana is not known to be toxic to pets or humans.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Hardenbergia genus include:
- Hardenbergia violacea
- Hardenbergia comptoniana ‘Happy Wanderer’
- Hardenbergia monophylla
- Hardenbergia ‘Mini Haha’
References
- “Hardenbergia comptoniana.” Australian Plant Image Index. Accessed 28 Oct. 2021. http://www.anbg.gov.au/photo/apii/id/771.
- “Hardenbergia comptoniana.” PlantNet. Accessed 28 Oct. 2021. http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Hardenbergia~comptoniana.
- “Hardenbergia comptoniana.” Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. Accessed 28 Oct. 2021. https://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/Royal-Botanic-Garden/Science-Conservation/Our-Work-with-Plants/Plant-of-the-Month/February-2020.
