Dillwynia - after British botanist Lewis Weston Dillwyn (1778-1855). phylicoides - from genus Phylica and oides, like, referring to small narrow leaves which resemble those of Phylica genus.
Quite widespread, predominantly in drier areas west of the Hume Highway. Noted in the areas: Yarra Yarra; Four Mile; Coppabella; Lower Sandy; Coreinbob; O'Briens South & McLeods; Burkes & Graveyard, and Mates Gully.
Australia:
Qld, NSW, Vic.
Habitat:
Dry sclerophyll woodland to forest on acidic well-drained soils.
Habit:
Prostrate to erect shrub to 1.5 m high with hairy stems and spirally twisted leaves, usually 3-8 mm long.
Similar Species:
This species complex seems to include at least 2 species and requires critical revision.
Site Preference:
Characteristics:
Flowering:
Yellow and red. Profuse terminal clusters.
Seed Collection:
Late Oct to late Feb. Monitor closely as seeds released immediately or within 1-2 days of maturity.
Propagation:
From scarified seed or cuttings. 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.
Regeneration:
Timber:
Shade and Shelter:
Low-level cover in windbreaks.
Land Protection:
Legume - improves soil fertility through 'fixing' nitrogen.
Wildlife:
Important component of understorey layer.
Ornamental:
Ornamental for gardens. Very hardy. Responds to hard pruning.
Other:
Note: The following information presented is only a guide, as plant characteristics vary depending on provenance (the plant's locality).
