Bush Flame Pea
One of the best examples of this group, of plants Chorizema varium is a compact grower reaching around .3m in height with a spread of around .5m.
It grows naturally in rocky areas in the south west of Western Australia and is sometimes called the Limestone Flame Pea as it grows in areas where limestone is present. Also called the ‘Bush Flame Pea’ although this name is applies to a number of Chorizema species.
This is an evergreen shrub that can be used as a ground cover plant and with brilliant orange and red flowers it is best planted where they can be appreciated, along a low retaining wall or similar.
Foliage is rounded and mid to deep green. It is suited to coastal areas and can be mass planted as a ground cover. It will spread to around 80cm across. Also suited to growing in pots or containers on a decking area.
Chorizema varium Care
Like many in the genus, this is plant that does like some water, however they key to successful growing conditions is good drainage. It is not a plant that tolerates wet or waterlogged soils.
Although it grows well in full sun, it will perform a little better in a little shade, and does prefer the soil to be mulched.
The best time to plant Chorizema varium is in late summer as the weather cools down. This gives the plant a chance to develop a good root system before the heat of the next summer.
Although heavy pruning is not recommended, tip pruning is advisable. This tip pruning is best carried out immediately after flowering.
A slow release native plant fertiliser in spring will be beneficial.