A vigorous evergreen climber that smothers fences and trellises in cascades of purple pea flowers through late winter — one of the first natives to announce spring.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 2 m tall
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Native Sarsaparilla
Botanically, Hardenbergia violacea is a fast-growing climber in the Fabaceae family, native to New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania. It reaches around 2 m tall at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Purple flowers appear in winter and spring.
Where to grow Native Sarsaparilla
Native Sarsaparilla suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Most soils suit Native Sarsaparilla provided drainage is reasonable. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Native Sarsaparilla performs well with relatively little water once established. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Native Sarsaparilla after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Expect a low maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Native Sarsaparilla in the garden
Native Sarsaparilla earns its place for a feature or specimen planting, pots and courtyard containers and holding soil on banks and slopes. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Native Sarsaparilla with species that also favour happy on low water and warm-temperate climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
