A vigorous twining native pea bursting into sheets of purple flowers in late winter and spring. A reliable, fast cover for fences, trellises and banks.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 3 m H × 2 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Purple Coral Pea
Botanically, Hardenbergia violacea 'Happy Wanderer' is a fast-growing climber in the Fabaceae family, native to New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland. It reaches around 3 m tall and 2 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Purple flowers appear in winter and spring.
Where to grow Purple Coral Pea
Purple Coral Pea suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate, Mediterranean and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and tolerates salt-laden coastal winds.
Soil & planting
Purple Coral Pea does best in free-draining, sandy and clay soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 1.2 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Purple Coral Pea performs well with relatively little water once established. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Prune Purple Coral Pea after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Purple Coral Pea in the garden
Purple Coral Pea earns its place for a fast screen or informal hedge, holding soil on banks and slopes and feeding bees and pollinators.
Companion planting & design
Combine Purple Coral Pea with plants that share its preference for low water use and warm-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Purple Coral Pea
Plant Sale lists Purple Coral Pea as tube stock, potted plants and advanced specimens. Current stock is confirmed with your quote; ask about your preferred size before planning a purchase.
