Family: Papilionaceae

Found in all Australian states, this genus comprises around 50 species of small or prostrate, decorative shrubs. These tough, hardy plants are easy to grow and in very frosty climates make good subjects for a cool greenhouse or conservatory. They have small, simple leaves, sometimes absent, and mostly yellow and red, pea-shaped flowers.

Species

Bossiaeas are not usually available outside their native Australia.

B. heterophylla is a small, erect, open shrub which produces large yellow and brown flowers in autumn.

B. linophylla has a rounded habit, with linear leaves, erect stems and yellow flowers in late winter and spring. It is also available in a bronze-foliaged form.

Cultivation

The seeds of this plant are held within the flattened pod. The hard coat of the seeds needs treatment before sowing. Carefully nick the seed coat or, alternatively, pour boiling water over the seeds and allow them to stand for 12 hours. Swollen seeds will germinate more easily. Sow in a mixture of coarse sand and peat at a rate of 3:1. Plant in a well-drained, sunny position. Under glass, grow in pots of soil-based potting compost in bright light.

Climate

Zone 9 is suitable.