Australian Lilac

These evergreen climbers are known by a number of names; Australian lilac, purple lilac vine, coral pea and of course their Latin name hardenbergia violacea after the botanist who discovered them. They are an unusual, but very easy going plant, producing masses of purple blooms in the depths of winter.

Australian lilac as you might suspect from the name originate in the southern hemisphere so do need a bit of frost protection. A light spot in a cool room is ideal where the winter flowers can be enjoyed but they will also do well on a patio during the summer months or outdoors against a fence in very sheltered parts of the UK.

How often you need to water will depend on the room conditions. Typically, about a teacup a week, but make your own judgement, by feeling the weight of the pot. Try feeling the weight when dry and when well-watered and then try and keep it half-way in between. Water from the top and let the excess drain out through the lightweight compost.

Problem solving:

Generally Australian lilac are very easy going but be careful not to overwater them in the winter months. You are aiming for damp rather than soggy soil. The small purple flowers will naturally drop as they finish, leaving behind the central stem of the frond - do keep trimming these off to keep the plant neat and to encourage it to keep flowering.

Australian lilac are not too greedy feeders but if you notice the new growth becoming pale or mottled in anyway feed with Plants4Presents plant tonic or with a general purpose houseplant food according to the manufacturers instructions.