Dillwynia retorta

Dillwynia retorta

Native to:
Australia

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Dillwynia
Species:
Dillwynia retorta
USDA Symbol:
DIRE16

Growth Characteristics

Height:
200 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
aug,sep,oct,nov
Bloom Colors:
yellow, orange, red
Evergreen Shrub:
Yes
Landscaping Shrub:
Yes

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes
Fire Ecology:
Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire
Fire Notes:
Seeds are stimulated by fire; hard seed coat cracks after heat exposure, promoting germination in post-fire environments.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, acidic, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
4.5 - 6.5 (acidic to slightly acidic)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to heathlands and open forests

Propagation & Germination

Scarification:
Seed coat scarification required before sowing
Germination Time:
21–60 days
Notes:
Seeds require scarification (e.g., hot water treatment or mechanical nicking) to break hard seed coat; germination occurs in 3-8 weeks.