Running-postman (Kennedia prostrata, W.T.Aiton, Hortus Kew. 4: 299 (1812))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: R.Br.

Bibliography: W.T.Aiton, Hortus Kew. 4: 299 (1812)

Year: 1812

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Kennedia

Vegetable: False

Observations: S. & SE. Australia

Description

The Running-postman, scientifically known as Kennedia prostrata, is a captivating and hardy plant native to the southern and southeastern regions of Australia. This charming member of the Fabaceae family was first described in the early 19th century, with its formal classification being documented in “Hortus Kew.” by W.T. Aiton in the year 1812, thanks to the contributions of botanist Robert Brown.

Characterized by its prostrate growth habit, the Running-postman spreads along the ground, creating a delightful carpet of greenery punctuated by striking flowers. The plant features trifoliate leaves with soft, rounded leaflets that provide a lush backdrop to its showy blossoms. During its blooming period, Kennedia prostrata produces an abundance of bright red or orange-red pea-like flowers, which are not only visually striking but also serve an important ecological role by attracting pollinators such as bees and birds.

Adaptable and resilient, the Running-postman thrives in a variety of soil types and climatic conditions prevalent in its native Australian habitats. It is particularly well-suited to sandy soils and areas with good drainage, making it an excellent choice for gardens and landscapes looking to incorporate native flora.

In addition to its ornamental appeal, Kennedia prostrata is valued for its low-maintenance nature and capacity to provide effective ground cover. It is frequently used in revegetation projects and gardening designs that seek to reduce soil erosion and improve biodiversity. By planting the Running-postman, gardeners and land managers can enjoy the dual benefits of a visually appealing landscape and the ecological advantages of supporting native species and their interactions within the environment.

Overall, the Running-postman, Kennedia prostrata, stands out as a versatile and attractive plant that embodies both the beauty and resilience of Australia’s native flora.

Common Names

Eng: running-postman, scarlet coral-pea, scarlet-runner
En: Running-postman, Scarlet coral-pea, Scarlet-runner

Synonyms

• Kennedia bracteata (Gaudich.)
• Caulinia bracteata ((Gaudich.) Kuntze)
• Kennedia arenaria (Benth.)
• Kennedia stipularis (Desv.)
• Kennedia prostrata var. minor (G.Don)
• Kennedia prostrata var. major (DC.)
• Kennedia prostrata f. major ((DC.) Voss)
• Kennedia prostrata var. alba (Guilf.)
• Caulinia prostrata ((R.Br.) F.Muell.)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• South Australia (native)
• Tasmania (native)
• Victoria (native)
• Western Australia (native)

Additional Images

Habit

Taken Jul 15, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Sep 4, 2020 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 15, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Aug 13, 2021 by Simon Chirgwin (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 5, 2021 by Arevalo Ian (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 10, 2022 by jenny tucker (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 15, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

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

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

© 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/2959159)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:501210-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Kennedia prostrata R.Br.)

Specifications

Growth