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Description
Platylobium Obtusangulum, commonly known as the Flat Pea, is a perennial plant native to Australia. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is known for its flattened, winged seed pods. The plant grows up to 1 meter in height and produces clusters of yellow flowers in spring and summer. It is commonly found in heathlands and woodlands in Western Australia.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Platylobium |
Appearance
Platylobium Obtusangulum has a woody stem and oval-shaped leaves that are dark green and smooth. The plant produces clusters of yellow flowers that are about 2cm in diameter, with each flower having five petals. The flowers bloom in spring and summer, and are followed by flattened, winged seed pods that are about 5cm in length. The seed pods are initially green, but turn brown as they mature.
Care Guide
Platylobium Obtusangulum is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It can be grown in a range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-draining. The plant prefers a sunny or partially shaded location and can tolerate temperatures as low as -7°C. It is important to water the plant regularly during the growing season and to fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer once a month.
Common Pests & Diseases
Platylobium Obtusangulum is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-drained soil. Aphids may also infest the plant, causing stunted growth and deformed leaves. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Platylobium Obtusangulum is native to the southwestern region of Western Australia, and can be found in heathlands and woodlands. The plant is well-suited to the region’s Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Platylobium Obtusangulum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Platylobium Obtusangulum can be grown in containers, as long as the container is at least 30cm in diameter and has good drainage.
Q: How often should Platylobium Obtusangulum be fertilized?
A: Platylobium Obtusangulum should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Platylobium Obtusangulum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Platylobium Obtusangulum attracts bees and butterflies, which are important pollinators.
Q: How long does it take for Platylobium Obtusangulum to bloom?
A: Platylobium Obtusangulum blooms in spring and summer, and the flowers last for several weeks.
Related Plants
- Platylobium formosum
- Platylobium obtusum
- Platylobium parviflorum
- Platylobium triangulare
References
- “Platylobium Obtusangulum.” PlantNET.
- “Platylobium Obtusangulum.” Australian Native Plants Society.
- “Platylobium obtusangulum.” Australian Plant Image Index.
