Chambers Leptosema, Wreath Pea, Upside-down-plant
Leptosema chambersii

Family: Fabaceae

What it is like

A small shrub. It grows 0.2-0.4 m high and 0.3-0.8 m wide. Young growth has silky hairs. The stems are stiff and erect. The small branches are slender, spreading and slightly angular. The leaves are reduced to scales. The flowers are pea shaped. and 4 cm long. They are red. The flowers occur along one side of tufted stalks. The fruit are pods about 1.2 cm long. They are densely hairy and have beaks.

There are about 13 Leptosema species. They grow in Australia. Also as Papilionaceae.

Where it is found

It grows in central Australia. It grows on sandplains and sand dunes. They suit arid and semi-arid locations. They need very good drainage and high temperatures. Plants can tolerate frosts.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The nectar of the flowers is eaten.

Edible parts

Nectar

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed. The seed germinate in 10-25 days. They can also be grown from cuttings.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Brachysema chambersii (F.Muell.) Benth.