How to grow coral pea
Overview
Coral pea (Kennedia coccinea) is a twining climber native to south-west Australia, prized for its showy coral-red flowers and dense foliage. It is grown to cover fences, trellises, and archways, adding vertical lushness. Success depends on providing part shade and well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
Soil Preparation
Coral pea prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 5.5–7.0) with excellent drainage. If soil is heavy clay, raise beds or amend with coarse sand and composted organics. Avoid adding manure or high-phosphorus fertilisers, which damage native plants.
Growing Guide
Plant coral pea in a position with morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in hotter zones. It needs well-drained sandy or loamy soil; avoid heavy clay or waterlogged sites. Space plants 2–3 m apart for walls or trellises. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball, backfill with native potting mix, and water in well. Mulch lightly to keep roots cool and suppress weeds. Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact habit.
Sowing
Scarify seeds (nick with a knife or rub with sandpaper) or soak in boiling water for 10 seconds to break dormancy. Sow 1 cm deep in seed-raising mix, keep moist and warm (20–25°C). Germination occurs in 2–4 weeks. Direct sow in autumn or spring, or start in pots and transplant when 10–15 cm tall.
Care
Feed in early spring with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser to avoid harming the root system. Train young tendrils onto supports weekly; once established, vines twist naturally. After main flowering, prune back the longest stems by one-third to encourage dense regrowth and more blooms next season.
Companion Planting
Good companions include other native shrubs such as Grevillea, Acacia, and Hakea, which share similar soil and water needs. Avoid planting alongside fast-growing, smothering weeds like kikuyu or vigorous grasses that will compete for moisture.
Common Pests & Risks
Caterpillars (including native budworm) and scale insects are the most common pests on coral pea. Hand remove caterpillars or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). Treat scale with horticultural white oil in early spring. Young plants may be bothered by snails; install barriers or use iron-based baits.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: overwatering or poor drainage – reduce watering and improve soil drainage. Brown leaf edges: salt buildup or hot afternoon sun – move to more shade or flush soil with water. Poor flowering: too much nitrogen or heavy shade – switch to low-phosphorus fertiliser and ensure part sun. Leggy growth: insufficient support – add trellising and tip-prune to encourage branching. Scale infestation: white oil spray in cooler weather (avoid heatwaves).