How to grow flame pea
Overview
Flame pea is a small, evergreen shrub grown for its colourful pea-like flowers and fine-textured foliage. It thrives in part shade and well-drained soil, making it a valuable filler plant that links bolder specimens in the garden.
Soil Preparation
Prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5). Enrich with composted leaf litter or native soil conditioner. If drainage is poor, raise beds or add coarse sand and gypsum. Avoid heavy clay or alkaline sites.
Growing Guide
Plant in a sheltered part-shade position with morning sun and afternoon protection. Space 60–80 cm apart in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Dig a hole twice the pot width, backfill with native mix, and water in well. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged sites; improve drainage with coarse sand or gravel if needed. Mulch lightly with organic matter, keeping it clear of the stem.
Sowing
Sow seed 5–10 mm deep in seed-raising mix after scarifying (nicking or hot water treatment). Germination takes 3–6 weeks at 18–22°C. Direct sow in autumn in Mediterranean zones; elsewhere, transplant seedlings when 10 cm tall. Soak seed in near-boiling water for 30 seconds to break dormancy.
Care
Feed with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser in early spring. Lightly prune after flowering to shape and remove spent blooms. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, but avoid piling mulch against the stem.
Companion Planting
Pair with Correa, Grevillea, and Hardenbergia for a native understorey. Avoid heavy-feeding plants like citrus or roses that need high phosphorus, as flame pea is sensitive to it.
Common Pests & Risks
Scale insects may appear on stems and leaves; treat with horticultural oil in early spring. Caterpillars, including native budworm, can chew foliage; hand-pick or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) if infestations are heavy. Keep plants well-pruned to improve airflow and reduce pest pressure.
Troubleshooting
Yellow leaves: usually from waterlogged roots or high phosphorus; improve drainage and switch to native fertiliser. Brown leaf edges: caused by dry air or frost; increase humidity and protect from cold snaps. Leggy growth: too much shade or over-fertilising; move to brighter spot and reduce feeding. Poor flowering: lack of pruning or old wood; prune after flowering to encourage new growth. Scale on stems: treat with horticultural oil in early spring.