Nature conservation

Threatened species

Violet Swainson-Pea - profile

Indicative distribution


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Key:
known
predicted
The areas shown in pink and/purple are the sub-regions where the species or community is known or predicted to occur. They may not occur thoughout the sub-region but may be restricted to certain areas. ( click here to see geographic restrictions). The information presented in this map is only indicative and may contain errors and omissions.
Scientific name: Swainsona adenophylla
Conservation status in NSW: Endangered
Commonwealth status: Not listed
Profile last updated: 18 Oct 2022

Description

Slender perennial forb to 30 cm high, sparsely downy and with numerous stems. Leaves mostly 3-5 cm long, composed of 3-9 narrow leaflets, each with a gland at the tip. The plant is distinguished by the swollen leaflets and conspicuous glands. Flowers purple or pink, pea-like, 6-9 mm long. Pod narrow-oblong, 10-20 mm long, hairy.

Distribution

This species is most widespread in central South Australia, with records from one location in both New South Wales and Victoria. Was collected in 1979 from Barmah SF, near Echuca, in Victoria but has not been located since. In NSW it is known from one collection in Kinchega National Park, south west of Menindee, where it was described as 'common'.

Habitat and ecology

  • Grows on red sandy or stony flats, especially near lake margins. Associated species in South Australia include Eucalyptus microtheca and Acacia species. The records from Victoria were on higher River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) terraces, well away from the main river channel.
  • Flowering period is June to September (or summer after good rains). Recorded in the Menindee area growing on sandy soil in a year of high winter rainfall. Most Swainsona species are erratic in occurrence, carpeting the landscape after significant rain in areas of low and irregular rainfall.
  • Abundance in populations has been recorded as common and dominant.

Regional distribution and habitat

Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.


Threats

Recovery strategies

Activities to assist this species

Information sources

IBRA Bioregion IBRA Subregion Known or predicted Geographic restrictions region
Darling Riverine PlainsMenindee Predicted None
Other StateSA Known None