Australian Sarsaparilla Hardenbergia comptoniana
ABOUT
Hardenbergia comptoniana, commonly known as Australian Sarsaparilla or Native Wisteria, is a striking plant known for its vigorous climbing habit. It typically has twining stems that help it climb over structures and other plants with ease. The leaves of Australian Sarsaparilla are glossy and dark green in color, often presenting a lance-shaped or narrowly oval appearance with prominently visible veins giving them a textured look. One of the most distinctive features of this plant is its floral display. The flowers bloom in dense and elongated clusters known as racemes. Each individual flower resembles a small pea and is a vibrant shade of purple or violet, which adds a burst of color to any garden. The blooms are often characterized by a mild, sweet fragrance that can attract pollinators like bees to the garden. Australian Sarsaparilla sometimes bears fruit, which are small, brownish pods containing seeds, though the pods are less conspicuous than the showy flowers. Australian Sarsaparilla's tough nature and evergreen foliage make it a popular choice for gardeners looking to add long-lasting greenery and lively colors to their landscapes. Despite the absence of specific size details, the overall appearance of the plant with its glossy leaves and vibrant blooms make it a captivating sight.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Fabaceae
Synonyms
Native Wisteria, Australian Sarsaparilla, Purple Coral Pea
Common names
Hardenbergia comptoniana, Kennedya comptoniana, Hardenbergia monophylla, Hardenbergia ovata, Hardenbergia comptoniana var. typica.
ToxicityTo humans
Australian Sarsaparilla is generally not known to be toxic to humans. However, as with any plant, individual sensitivities can vary and it is always advisable to avoid ingesting plants that are not widely recognized as food sources. There is limited information on the specific symptoms of poisoning from this plant as it is not commonly reported to cause serious illness or toxicity in humans. Nevertheless, caution should be exercised to prevent accidental ingestion, especially by children.
To pets
Australian Sarsaparilla is not commonly known to be toxic to pets. However, individual animals may have different sensitivities, and it is advisable to keep pets from ingesting ornamental plants. As with humans, there is limited information regarding the toxicity of this specific plant to pets, and symptoms of poisoning are not well documented. Even so, it is wise to monitor pets and prevent them from eating plants that are not intended for consumption to avoid any potential adverse effects.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Evergreen
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Purple
Height
6 feet (1.8 meters)
Spread
5 feet (1.5 meters)
Plant type
Climber
Hardiness zones
9
Native area
Australia
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Hardenbergia comptoniana, also known as the Australian sarsaparilla, features vibrant violet flowers that enhance the visual attractiveness of any landscape or garden.
- Habitat for Wildlife: It offers shelter and nectar for pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to biodiversity.
- Erosion Control: The robust root system of Australian sarsaparilla helps stabilize the soil, preventing erosion.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscaping and low-water-demand gardens.
- Low Maintenance: This plant is easy to care for, requiring minimal upkeep once it has settled into its environment.
- Versatility in Landscaping: It can be used in a variety of landscaping applications, such as ground cover, climbing up structures, or as a trailing plant in containers.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- As a natural dye: The flowers and leaves of the Australian sarsaparilla can be used to produce natural dyes for fabric or paper, typically yielding colors in shades of green or brown.
- In landscaping for erosion control: The deep root system of the Australian sarsaparilla makes it an excellent choice for controlling erosion on slopes or in areas prone to soil degradation.
- As a ground cover: Australian sarsaparilla can be planted to cover large areas of ground, which helps to suppress weeds due to its spreading habit and dense foliage.
- For soil improvement: By fixing nitrogen in the soil, the Australian sarsaparilla can help to improve soil fertility and benefit other plants grown nearby.
- As a butterfly attractant: The flowers of the Australian sarsaparilla are known to attract butterflies, making it a useful plant to include in butterfly gardens.
- For crafting and basket making: The flexible stems of the Australian sarsaparilla can be used in the craft of basket making or for weaving decorative items.
- In perfumery: While not a common use, the fragrance of the Australian sarsaparilla flowers could potentially be used as inspiration or a component in perfume creation.
- As an educational tool: In schools or botanical gardens, the Australian sarsaparilla can be used to educate students and visitors about plant biology and Australian native flora.
- For horticultural research: Scientists may use Australian sarsaparilla as a subject for research in horticulture, studying its growth patterns, pollination methods, or adaptability to various environments.
- In photography and painting: The vibrant purple flowers and attractive foliage of the Australian sarsaparilla are often favoured by photographers and artists for their visual appeal.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Australian Sarsaparilla is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Australian Sarsaparilla is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Enduring Love: With its robust climbing nature and the resilience of its blooms, Hardenbergia comptoniana, commonly known as Australian Sarsaparilla, is often associated with the strength and endurance of love, reflecting the idea that affection can persevere through challenging circumstances.
- Resilience and Survival: Native to Australia and capable of thriving in tough conditions, Australian Sarsaparilla symbolizes the ability to survive and even flourish through adversity. This plant's tenacity is a reminder of resilience in the face of hardship.
- Connection and Friendship: As a climbing plant that relies on support from its surroundings, Australian Sarsaparilla can represent the importance of relationships and connections with others, pointing to the value of friendship and mutual support.
WaterThe Australian sarsaparilla, or Hardenbergia comptoniana, should be watered regularly but allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. As a general rule, watering once a week with about one to two gallons, depending on the size of the plant and the climate conditions, is advisable. During the hotter months, you may need to water more frequently, and less so during the cooler months. Always check the top inch of soil for dryness before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure proper drainage is in place.
LightAustralian sarsaparilla thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. It is ideal to plant it in a location where it can receive at least four to six hours of sunlight daily. However, in very hot climates, some afternoon shade is beneficial to prevent scorching of the leaves.
TemperatureFor Australian sarsaparilla, the ideal temperature range is between 50°F and 85°F. It can survive minimum temperatures down to about 20°F. It is important to protect the plant from extreme cold as it might damage or kill the plant. In regions with harsh winters, it is best grown as potted plants that can be moved indoors.
PruningPruning Australian sarsaparilla is necessary to maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. It should be pruned after flowering, typically in late spring or early summer, to remove spent flowers and any dead or damaged growth. Pruning can be done annually or biennially, depending on the plant's appearance and health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilNative Violet requires well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix containing loamy soil, compost, and coarse sand would be ideal for proper root growth and drainage. Additionally, incorporating a slow-release fertilizer can benefit its growth.
RepottingNative Violet should generally be repotted every two to three years, or when it becomes root-bound. It's best to repot in spring before the growth season begins, using a fresh soil mix that meets its requirements.
Humidity & MistingNative Violet prefers moderate to high humidity levels but is quite adaptable. Aim for a humidity level around 40-60% for optimal growth.
Suitable locationsIndoor
For Native Violet, ensure bright indirect light and room to climb or cascade.
Outdoor
Place Native Violet in partial shade, shelter from harsh sun.
Hardiness zone
9-11 USDA
Life cycleHardenbergia comptoniana, commonly known as the Australian sarsaparilla, begins its life cycle as a seed, often germinating after disturbance such as fire or soil disruption. Seedlings establish a root system and then develop into juvenile plants with compound leaves, climbing or twining as they mature. When the plants reach maturity, they produce inflorescences of vibrant purple, pink, or white pea-like flowers, typically in winter and spring, which are pollinated by bees and other insects. Following pollination, flowers develop into seed pods that dry and split open to release seeds. Seeds can remain dormant in the soil for extended periods until conditions are favorable for germination. The plant is perennial, with mature specimens capable of surviving for several years, during which time it will continue to grow, flower, and set seed, completing the life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Summer
The most popular method of propagating Hardenbergia comptoniana, commonly known as Australian Sarsaparilla or Purple Coral Pea, is through semi-hardwood cuttings. Cuttings are best taken during the late summer when growth from the current season has started to harden. To propagate, cut a 4 to 6 inch (10 to 15 cm) piece from a healthy stem, ensuring that it includes at least one leaf node. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting should then be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist but not waterlogged. It's important to provide a warm environment and indirect light until new growth indicates that rooting has occurred.
