Podolobium procumbens (F.Muell.) Crisp & P.H.Weston

Growth Habit

Podolobium procumbens is a low, spreading shrub that reaches up to 0.3 m (1 ft 0 in) in height. It has smooth stems and forms a lignotuber.

Leaf Arrangement and Shape

Its leaves are arranged oppositely or in whorls, and are oval-shaped, measuring 1–2.5 cm (0.39–0.98 in) long and 6–18 mm (0.24–0.71 in) wide. The upper leaf surface is smooth, wavy, shiny and veined, while the lower surface has occasional hairs.

Leaf Apex and Petiole

Leaves end in a pointed apex and are borne on a 3 mm (0.12 in) long petiole.

Inflorescence Structure

Inflorescences form as small clusters at branch ends or in leaf axils, and are borne on a silky pedicel 4–10 mm (0.16–0.39 in) long. The bracteoles are narrow lance-shaped.

Calyx Features

The calyx is 6–9 mm (0.24–0.35 in) long and covered in flattened, soft, short hairs.

Corolla Color and Size

The corolla is 10–14 mm (0.39–0.55 in) long, and is orange with red markings. The standard petal is nearly orb-shaped, orange with a red centre; the wing petals are orange; and the keel is reddish.

Flowering Period

Flowering takes place from November to January.

Fruit Characteristics

The fruit is an oblong pod 10–15 mm (0.39–0.59 in) long, which can be straight or curved, and is covered with long, straight, soft hairs.

Common Name and Habitat

This species, commonly known as trailing shaggy-pea, grows in sclerophyll forests and woodland in Victoria and south-eastern New South Wales.