A tough, fast Australian native climber and groundcover bearing dusky red pea flowers in spring that attract honeyeaters. Hardy and adaptable, it is excellent for binding banks and quick cover.
At a glance
- Plant type: Climber
- Mature size: 3 m H × 4 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: happy on low water
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Dusky Coral Pea
Botanically, Kennedia rubicunda is a fast-growing climber in the Fabaceae family, native to New South Wales and Queensland. It reaches around 3 m tall and 4 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Red flowers appear in spring and summer.
Where to grow Dusky Coral Pea
Dusky Coral Pea suits warm-temperate, subtropical and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also tolerates salt-laden coastal winds and is a genuinely water-wise choice.
Soil & planting
Dusky Coral Pea does best in sandy, loamy and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool. For a screen, space plants about 2.4 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Dusky Coral Pea performs well with relatively little water once established. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Prune Dusky 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 Dusky Coral Pea in the garden
Dusky Coral Pea earns its place for holding soil on banks and slopes, a low lawn alternative, drawing nectar-feeding birds into the garden and a fast screen or informal hedge.
Companion planting & design
Combine Dusky Coral Pea with plants that share its preference for happy on low water 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.
Good to know
It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Dusky Coral Pea
Plant Sale lists Dusky Coral Pea as potted plants and advanced specimens. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
