Swainsona FORMOSA

Swainsona FORMOSA - Sturt's desert pea, Swainsona formosa, Clianthus formosus.

Rare plant!

Swainsona is a large genus of plants in the family Fabaceae from Australia. It includes 85 species, of which 84 are endemic to Australia, and one occurs only in New Zealand. The genus is named in honor of English botanist Isaac Swainson. Most plant species are low-growing or prostrate; however, in the Pilbara region of north-western Australia, specimens 2 m (6.6 ft) in height have been found. The flowering period is spring and summer, with flower appearance accelerating especially after rain.

Until the early 19th century, Swainsona was assigned to the genus Clianthus, which is why it is still sometimes encountered under the name 'Clianthus formosus'. But because of significant differences, a separate genus was established - Swainsona, named after English botanist Isaac Swainson. On November 23, 1961, Swainsona formosa was adopted as the floral emblem of the state of South Australia.

Sturt's desert pea is a perennial evergreen slow-growing liana or scrambling shrub from arid regions of Australia. It is a fairly rare species, an endemic known for its unique blood-red leaves and flowers, with a bulbous black boss, shaped like a lobster claw. The plant is low-growing, reaching no more than 70 cm (28 in) in height. It has fairly slender branches and numerous small leaflets. Branches can reach 3 m (10 ft) in length. Leaves are pinnate, gray-green, and velvety. Medium-sized inflorescences, appearing in leaf axils on petioles about 8 cm (3.1 in) long, contain up to 6 bright red flowers with a black spot. The flowers are large, about 9 cm (3.5 in), arranged radially on the peduncle. The flowering period is March-June.

This Australian wildflower has an unusual imposing shape and a red-and-green coloration that can definitely symbolize Christmas. It is one of the most famous wildflowers in Australia. Its habitual habitats are arid regions of central and north-western Australia, and its range extends across all Australian states with the exception of the state of Victoria.

Before sowing, seeds are soaked in hot water for 12-24 hours, then sown on top of a lightly compacted mix or to a depth of no more than 5 mm (0.2 in) and covered with a layer of soil. They are moistened with a spray bottle, covered with film, and germinated in light at a temperature of 25-30 °C (77-86 °F). Seedlings require ventilation. It is essential to avoid overwatering and drying out of the sowings. Seedlings begin flowering 4-5 months after planting.

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In general, Swainsona is not considered a long-lived plant, but its life can be prolonged if favorable conditions are created. If the roots are undisturbed, flowering can resume the following season. Swainsona is well adapted to life in desert terrain. Small seeds have long viability and can germinate after many years. Swainsona seeds have a tough coating that protects their contents from harsh arid environments until the next rain, but inhibits germination under ordinary home conditions. The slightest root damage is fatal to Swainsona, but once established in well-drained soils, it does not require frequent watering and can withstand not only extreme heat and sunlight, but even light frosts.

Under home conditions, it grows best in cool, bright, and sunny rooms. Watering is generous during the warm season, and moderate in winter, but one must ensure that the root ball does not dry out. During the growth period, regular feeding (1-2 times a month) with a complete mineral fertilizer in weak concentration is necessary. The soil should be loose and nutritious, with a high proportion of sand or perlite. In summer, the plant can be taken outdoors into the garden or onto a loggia. It can overwinter at room temperature, but overwintering at a temperature of 10-15 °C (50-59 °F) is considered ideal. Plants have a fragile taproot and dislike transplanting, so it is recommended to plant them immediately into individual pots. Pruning must be carried out after flowering.