Sturt's desert pea - Swainsona formosa (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Sturt's desert pea

Also known as: Desert pea, Sturt pea, Captain sturt's desert pea, Blood flower

Sturt's desert pea is the official flower of South Australia, and its unique blossoms make it difficult to forget. The brilliant red flowers have large black dots, giving them the appearance of having eyes on the front and back. It’s a flower that always seems to be watching anyone nearby.

Scientific classification

Species

Sturt's desert pea (Swainsona formosa)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Perennial, Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Spring, Summer

Bloom Time

50 cm to 2 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 60 cm

Spread

Green, Gray, Silver

Leaf Color

9 cm

Flower Size

Images of Sturt's desert pea

Distribution of Sturt's desert pea

Distribution Map

Swainsona formosa is a plant natively confined to arid and semi-arid regions across the oceanic continent. In terms of expansion, sturt's desert pea has been introduced to South Asia. Additionally, it is cultivated in various parts of the world, highlighting its adaptability beyond its natural range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Sturt's desert pea

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Potting Mix, Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Sturt's desert pea excels in arid conditions with excellent drought tolerance. It requires deep watering biweekly, prefers well-draining soil indoors, and adapts its growth to available rainfall. This resilience allows sturt's desert pea to thrive despite low humidity and intermittent moisture availability.

Fertilize: For sturt's desert pea, balanced nutrition fertilizers with high phosphorus promote flowering. Apply every two months in spring and summer, reducing frequency in fall and winter. Dilute fertilizers to half-strength to prevent root burn, and always water the soil before application to protect sturt's desert pea's roots.

Pruning: Sturt's desert pea features vibrant flowers and pinnate leaves, needing pruning in late winter or early spring. Trim leggy shoots and remove dead stems to encourage bushy growth and prevent disease. Avoid heavy pruning to protect its delicate root system and ensure healthy regrowth.

Propagation: Sturt's desert pea is a unique Australian native plant with striking red and black flowers. Successful propagation involves scarifying its seeds and soaking them in warm water for 24 hours. Sow in well-draining soil at a shallow depth, maintaining consistent moisture and warmth for optimal growth.

Repotting: Repot sturt's desert pea every 2-3 years in early spring using a wide, shallow container. Post-repotting, provide ample sunlight and minimal water, reflecting its arid habitat. Remember, sturt's desert pea prefers neglect, so avoid over-care.

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