An iconic arid-zone trailing annual bearing spectacular blood-red pea flowers with a glossy black boss over silvery foliage. A challenging but breathtaking wildflower and floral emblem of South Australia.
At a glance
- Plant type: Annual
- Mature size: 30 cm H × 1.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: very drought tolerant once established
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Sturt's Desert Pea
Swainsona formosa is a fast-growing annual in the Fabaceae family, native to South Australia, the Northern Territory, Western Australia and Queensland. It reaches around 30 cm tall and 1.5 m wide at maturity, with silver-grey foliage. Red flowers appear in spring and summer.
Where to grow Sturt's Desert Pea
Sturt's Desert Pea suits arid and semi-arid, Mediterranean and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot. It also is a genuinely water-wise choice and is a sought-after collector's plant.
Soil & planting
Sturt's Desert Pea does best in sandy, free-draining and poor soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Sturt's Desert Pea handles dry conditions well 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 Sturt's Desert Pea after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Its ongoing care level is low maintenance.
Using Sturt's Desert Pea in the garden
Sturt's Desert Pea earns its place for pots and courtyard containers and a feature or specimen planting. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same very drought tolerant and arid and semi-arid climate as Sturt's Desert Pea. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Sturt's Desert Pea
Plant Sale lists Sturt's Desert Pea as tube stock, potted plants, advanced specimens and seed. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
Prefer to grow it yourself? See the Sturt's Desert Pea seed sowing guide for depth, timing and germination.
