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Description
Melolobium Candicans, commonly known as the “Grey-leaved Bitter Pea,” is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to Australia and is commonly found in the coastal sand dunes of Western Australia. It is known for its attractive grey-green leaves and small, pea-shaped flowers that bloom in late winter and early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Melolobium |
Appearance
Melolobium Candicans is a small shrub that grows up to 1 meter in height and 2 meters in width. The leaves of this plant are grey-green in color and are covered with fine hairs, which give them a velvety texture. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and are compound, with 3-7 leaflets. The flowers are small and pea-shaped, with colors ranging from white to pink and purple, and appear in clusters at the end of the stems.
Care Guide
To care for Melolobium Candicans, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil, as this plant is susceptible to root rot. It also prefers full sun or light shade and should be watered regularly in the summer months. Fertilization should be done in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Melolobium Candicans is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Melolobium Candicans is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-draining. It is also important to watch for spider mites, which can cause damage to the leaves.
Habitat
Melolobium Candicans is native to the coastal sand dunes of Western Australia and thrives in sandy soil conditions. It is also found in heathlands and shrublands in the region.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Melolobium Candicans drought-tolerant?
A: While this plant prefers regular watering, it is somewhat drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Can Melolobium Candicans be grown in containers?
A: Yes, as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and has good drainage.
Q: Does Melolobium Candicans attract pollinators?
A: Yes, this plant is attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Q: How often should Melolobium Candicans be fertilized?
A: This plant should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Melolobium Divaricatum
- Melolobium Euclausum
- Melolobium Hamatum
- Melolobium Salsum
References
- “Melolobium Candicans.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). Web. 28 Sep. 2021. <https://anpsa.org.au/m-cand.html>
- “Melolobium Candicans.” PlantNet. Web. 28 Sep. 2021. <https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Melolobium~candicans>
- “Melolobium Candicans.” The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. Web. 28 Sep. 2021. <https://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/Royal-Botanic-Garden/Science-Conservation/Plant-Science/Plant-of-the-Month/2016/Melolobium-candicans>
