Prickly shaggy pea (Podolobium ilicifolium, M.D.Crisp & J.J.Doyle (eds.), Advances Legume System. 7: 280 (1995))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: (Andrews) Crisp & P.H.Weston

Bibliography: M.D.Crisp & J.J.Doyle (eds.), Advances Legume System. 7: 280 (1995)

Year: 1995

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Podolobium

Vegetable: False

Observations: Queensland to Victoria

Description

The Prickly Shaggy Pea, scientifically known as Podolobium ilicifolium, is an intriguing species within the Fabaceae family. This resilient plant is native to the diverse landscapes ranging from Queensland to Victoria in Australia, where it is a distinctive component of the native flora.

Renowned for its striking appearance, the Prickly Shaggy Pea showcases uniquely spiky foliage which lend it its common name. The leaves are typically dark green, tough, and holly-like, often sporting sharp points that can deter herbivores. These adaptations not only help the plant thrive in its natural environment but also make it a visually interesting specimen for botanical enthusiasts.

Botanical studies on Podolobium ilicifolium have been substantial. Notably, the work edited by M.D.Crisp and J.J.Doyle, “Advances Legume Systematics” (1995), includes significant contributions to our understanding of this species. Furthermore, the taxonomic details acknowledge the contributions of (Andrews) Crisp and P.H. Weston, who have been pivotal in classifying and describing the Prickly Shaggy Pea within its evolutionary context.

Growing naturally in a range of soil types and various climatic conditions, from coastal areas to mountainous regions, the Prickly Shaggy Pea is extremely adaptable. Its habitat flexibility indicates its role in diverse ecological systems, providing shelter and nutrient cycling within these environments.

For those interested in cultivating Podolobium ilicifolium, it’s important to note that this plant prefers well-drained soil and a position where it can receive ample sunlight. It’s also drought-tolerant once established, making it an excellent choice for sustainable gardening practices. However, caution should be exercised when handling due to its prickly nature.

In summary, the Prickly Shaggy Pea is a fascinating and resilient legume that contributes significantly to its native habitats’ biodiversity. Whether studied for its botanical characteristics, ecological roles, or potential in sustainable horticulture, Podolobium ilicifolium exemplifies the rich and varied plant life found in Australia’s unique environments.

Common Names

Eng: prickly shaggy pea, native holly
En: Prickly Shaggy Pea, Native Holly

Synonyms

• Oxylobium trilobum ((Sm.) Benth.)
• Podolobium trilobatum (R.Br.)
• Pultenaea ilicifolia (Andrews)
• Callistachys staurophylla ((Sieber ex DC.) Kuntze)
• Callistachys ilicifolia ((Andrews) Kuntze)
• Oxylobium staurophyllum ((Sieber ex DC.) Benth.)
• Oxylobium trilobum var. staurophyllum ((Sieber ex DC.) Maiden & Betche)
• Oxylobium ilicifolium ((Andrews) Domin)
• Podolobium bidwellianum (J.W.Loudon)
• Chorizema trilobum (Sm.)
• Podolobium staurophyllum (Sieber ex DC.)
• Podolobium berberifolium (A.Cunn. ex Lindl.)
• Podolobium aquifolium (G.Don)

Distribution

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

Additional Images

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

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

Flower

Taken Oct 26, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 26, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 22, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 22, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Oct 26, 2021 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 22, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Sep 22, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2967977)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:982195-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Podolobium ilicifolium (Andrews) Crisp & P.H.Weston)

Specifications

Growth