Daviesia - after botanist the Rev. Hugh Davies (1739-1821). mimosoides - mimosa-like, referring to similarity of 'leaves' to those of Acacia species. .
Quite widespread in most catchments and districts. Less common in the drier areas to the west.
Australia:
Qld, NSW, Vic.
Habitat:
sclerophyll communities, mostly on acidic soils, 0-1500 m altitude (often dominant understorey shrub).
Habit:
Multi-stemmed, open-branched erect shrub, 1-2 m high with narrow 'leaves' 2-20 cm long.
Similar Species:
Slender Bitter-pea has narrower 'leaves' and flowers slightly later than Leafy Bitter-pea.
Site Preference:
Characteristics:
Flowering:
yellow and red-brown, Sep-Nov.
Seed Collection:
Early Dec to late Jan. Monitor very closely as seeds released immediately or within 1-2 days of maturity. To ensure collection, cover fruiting branches with nylon stockings or paper bags after flowering. Ripe pods light-brown and brittle and rattle when shaken, with dark-coloured seed. May be difficult to obtain seed in useful quantities. Long storage life.
Propagation:
From scarified seed. Soak in near-boiling water for about 30 seconds, before cooling rapidly under flowing cold water. Alternatively soak in cold water for several hours. Dry to prevent rotting, before sowing. Germination
Regeneration:
From seed or suckers, particularly after fire.
Timber:
Shade and Shelter:
Useful low-level cover in windbreaks.
Land Protection:
Useful understorey in recharge plantings. Legume - improves soil fertility through 'fixing' nitrogen
Wildlife:
Good habitat. Flowers are a pollen and excellent nectar source for various native insects and birds.
Ornamental:
Very decorative. Interesting foliage and attractive perfumed flowers. Plant in clumps to form dense thickets for best effect. Pruning encourages dense growth.
Other:
Note: The following information presented is only a guide, as plant characteristics vary depending on provenance (the plant's locality).
