Family: Papilionaceae

These South African trees are very fast growing, though rather short lived, resulting in the adoption of local common names such as 'tree in a hurry'. In spring and summer, they provide a beautiful display of pea flowers. The alternate leaves are composed of a number of leaflets, and the fruit is a flat pod.

Species

V. divaricata is an evergreen tree, to 9 m (30 ft), with deep green foliage and fra­grant, usually deep pink flowers in spring.

V. oroboides (Synonym: V. capensis), Cape lilac, is an evergreen tree, to 10 m (33 ft). The firm, pale green leaves are rather silky underneath, and fragrant, pink or purple flowers appear in clus­ters in spring and summer. It is inclined to become straggly with age.

Cultivation

Outdoors, grow in acid or neutral, well-drained soil in a sunny spot. In frost-prone climates, grow in a cool greenhouse or conser­vatory. Propagate from seed soaked in hot water for 24 hours before sowing, and germinated at 15°C (591).

Climate

Zone 9 to 10.