Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Fabaceae

Genus:

Kennedia

Species:

Kennedia nigricans

USDA Symbol:

KENI

Growth Characteristics

Height:

500 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

aug,sep,oct,nov

Bloom Colors:

black, yellow

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, butterflies

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Fire Ecology:

Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire

Fire Notes:

Resprouts from lignotuber after fire; seeds also germinate in response to heat and smoke.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to sandy soils of southwestern Australia

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:

Warm stratification required — 30–60 days

Scarification:

Seed coat scarification required before sowing

Germination Time:

14–42 days

Notes:

Seeds require scarification (nicking or hot water treatment) followed by warm stratification to break physical dormancy.