A hardy flowering climber or groundcover with masses of purple pea flowers that brighten late winter. The purple flowers attract pollinators especially native bees like the blue banded bee. This plant is also host for the Common grass blue butterfly - Zizina labradus.
Description
Fast‑growing climber with dark green leathery leaves. Abundant purple pea flowers in winter–early spring.
Growth requirements
Performs best in full sun and in well‑drained soils. Will tolerate part shade. Very hardy and drought‑tolerant once established. Prune after flowering to maintain shape.
Image credits: Blue-banded bee - Rod Edmonds, Native sarsaparilla - Greg Miller, Native sarsaparilla - Jenny Gislason
