Family: Fabaceae
Author: (Andrews) R.Br.
Bibliography: W.T.Aiton, Hortus Kew. 4: 327 (1812)
Year: 1812
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Swainsona
Vegetable: False
Observations: E. & SE. Australia
Description
Darling-pea, scientifically known as Swainsona galegifolia, is a remarkable and vibrant species belonging to the Fabaceae family. The plant was first described in 1812 in the authoritative botanical work “Hortus Kewensis,” authored by W.T. Aiton. However, it officially gained its scientific classification from the botanist Robert Brown, who attributed its initial identification to Andrews.
This plant is predominantly found in the eastern and southeastern regions of Australia, where it thrives in a variety of habitats. Darling-pea is renowned for its striking appearance, characterized by its lush, pinnate foliage and clusters of rich, pea-like flowers. These blossoms range in color from deep purples and reds to softer pinks and even whites, presenting a captivating display that is highly attractive to both humans and pollinators.
The leaves of Swainsona galegifolia are typically compound, with a smooth texture and a lush green hue, contributing to its ornamental appeal. These leaves grow alternately along the stems, creating a full and bushy presentation that adds to the plant’s visual charm.
Darling-pea holds particular significance due to its resilience and adaptability. It can flourish in less fertile soils and is known for its drought-tolerant properties, making it an excellent choice for cultivation in challenging environments. Despite its beauty, it is crucial to note that parts of this plant are toxic if ingested, which indicates the necessity of careful management in gardens and grazing lands where livestock may be present.
In horticulture, Swainsona galegifolia is appreciated for its potential to enhance garden aesthetics with its colorful blooms and hardy nature. It also plays a role in native Australian ecosystems, contributing to the biodiversity and stability of its natural habitats.
Overall, Darling-pea stands out not only for its vivid flowers and adaptability but also for its historical botanical significance and ecological importance in Australia.
Common Names
Eng: darling-pea, cranky-pea, smooth darling-pea, swanflower, wintersweet-pea
En: Darling-pea, Cranky-pea, Smooth Darling-pea, Swanflower, Wintersweet-pea
Synonyms
- Swainsona galegifolia var. albiflora (Lindl.)
- Swainsona coronillifolia var. purpurea (Regel)
- Swainsona coronillifolia var. alboviolacea (Regel)
- Swainsona coronillifolia (Salisb.)
- Loxidium galegifolium ((Andrews) Vent. ex Poir.)
- Swainsona albiflora ((Lindl.) G.Don)
- Swainsona magnifica (Dombrain)
- Vicia galegifolia (Andrews)
- Swainsona osbornii (T.Moore)
- Colutea galegifolia ((Andrews) Sims)
- Swainsona ferrandi (Carrière)
Distribution
- New South Wales (native)
- Queensland (native)
- Victoria (native)
- Sri Lanka (introduced)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Jul 26, 2022 by Michal Svit (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2943436)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:519771-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Swainsona galegifolia (Andrews) R.Br.)