Dillwynia elegans Endl.

Growth Habit

Dillwynia elegans Endl. is an erect shrub that typically grows 0.2 to 2.0 metres (7.9 inches to 6 feet 6.7 inches) tall.

Stem Characteristics

Young stems of this species are hairy, and become hairless (glabrous) as they mature.

Leaf Features

Its leaves are crowded, linear, and roughly cylindrical, with a longitudinal groove, and measure 5 to 22 millimetres (0.20 to 0.87 inches) long.

Inflorescence Arrangement

Flowers grow in pairs in leaf axils, forming clusters near the ends of branches.

Floral Bracts

Each flower sits on a peduncle, accompanied by egg-shaped to lance-shaped bracts that are 1 to 2 millimetres (0.039 to 0.079 inches) long, and shorter bracteoles.

Flower Color

The flowers are yellow with red markings.

Floral Part Dimensions

Sepals are 4 to 7 millimetres (0.16 to 0.28 inches) long, and the standard petal is also 4 to 7 millimetres (0.16 to 0.28 inches) long but much wider.

Native Distribution

Dillwynia elegans is native to the area stretching from Port Jackson to regions east of Rylstone, where it grows on rocky sandstone hills in habitats ranging from heath to dry sclerophyll forest.

Cultivation Prevalence

Dillwynias are not commonly grown in cultivation.

Propagation and Growing Conditions

They can be propagated from scarified seed, and grow well in partially shaded to sunny locations, where they produce vibrant yellow flowers.

Germination Period

Germination takes place 3 to 4 weeks after seeds are planted.

Pruning and Flowering Time

Most Dillwynia species tolerate heavy pruning, and flowering occurs between spring and mid-winter.