Handsome flat-pea (Platylobium formosum, Spec. Bot. New Holland: 17 (1793))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: Sm.

Bibliography: Spec. Bot. New Holland: 17 (1793)

Year: 1793

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Platylobium

Vegetable: False

Observations: SE. Queensland to E. New South Wales

Description

The Handsome Flat-Pea, scientifically known as Platylobium formosum, is an exquisite member of the Fabaceae family. This plant has been recognized since its first documentation in the work Spec. Bot. New Holland, published in 1793 by the eminent botanist James Edward Smith.

Native to the southeastern regions of Queensland and extending to eastern New South Wales in Australia, the Handsome Flat-Pea thrives in these locales’ specific environmental conditions. This attractive perennial is valued for both its aesthetic appeal and ecological contributions.

Characterized by its robust and sprawling habit, Platylobium formosum features prominently distinctive flat and heart-shaped leaves, which are a noteworthy trait among flat-peas. These leaves are often arranged alternately, creating a visually appealing foliage structure. Additionally, the Handsome Flat-Pea is renowned for its vibrant yellow and orange pea-like flowers that bloom predominantly in the spring and early summer seasons, adding a splash of color to the landscape.

One of the plant’s significant ecological roles is its ability to enhance soil quality through nitrogen fixation—a common characteristic of the Fabaceae family. The roots of Platylobium formosum harbor beneficial bacteria that convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants, thus enriching the soil and supporting surrounding vegetation.

The Handsome Flat-Pea is not only a valuable plant for natural landscapes but also a favored choice for gardens and restoration projects, highlighting both its beauty and utility. Its resilience and adaptability to Australian climates make it an excellent candidate for planting in similar regions globally.

By understanding and appreciating the Handsome Flat-Pea, we continue to foster an awareness of the diverse and rich botanical heritage present in various bioregions, particularly those within Australia.

Common Names

En: Handsome Flat-pea

Synonyms

• Cheilococca apocynifolia (Salisb. ex Sm.)
• Platylobium formosum var. typicum (Domin)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Queensland (native)

Additional Images

Fruit

Taken Nov 6, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Oct 2, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 6, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Jul 25, 2022 by Michal Svit (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 26, 2022 by Michal Svit (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 30, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5349398)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:515194-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Platylobium formosum Sm.)

Specifications

Growth