Kennedia

Family. Legumes.

Origin. Australia.

Description. A small genus "Kennedia" containing 16 species of fast-growing evergreen vines. The stems are climbing and become woody with age. The leaves are leathery, dark green, compound, consisting of 3 oval leaflets. Flowers appear profusely throughout the summer, pink, salmon, orange, lilac, red, black, sometimes bicolored, usually with a lighter center. After flowering, the plant forms oblong seed pods, typical of legumes.

Height. The length of the vine reaches 5 m.

Temperature conditions

A heat-loving plant that tolerates even intense summer heat quite well. The winter temperature minimum is about 16° C.

Lighting

Blooms profusely only with good lighting. Place the kennedia in a well-lit place with some shade on summer days. The plant should receive direct sunlight in the morning and evening. When grown in partial shade, it blooms reluctantly.

Care

Pruning prolongs the life of the kennedia. The long stems of the plant need to be supported. In the summer months, if possible, place the pot outside - shaded from the hot midday sun and protected from heavy rainfall.

Substrate

The liana grows well in soils that are fairly poor in nutrients, but will thrive in a substrate with sufficient organic matter. Add coarse sand to the soil to improve drainage.

Feeding

During the growing season, feed the plant with liquid fertilizers once a month. 

Purpose

Low-growing species can be used as ground cover plants. Looks great when grown in hanging baskets.

Flowering time

Summer.

Air humidity

Provide the plant with a place with good air circulation. Periodically spray the leaves with warm water if the air becomes too dry. 

Soil moisture

Young plants require well-moistened soil; adults can withstand long periods of drought. Water moderately in the warm season, reduce watering in winter.

Transfer

In spring, annually. 

Reproduction

Cuttings taken in summer. Rooting is carried out in a mixture of peat and sand. Easily propagated by seeds in spring. First scald the seeds with boiling water and soak in warm water for a day. Germination usually occurs within 10 to 30 days after sowing if the pots with seedlings are placed in a warm place with a temperature of at least 20° C.

Pests and diseases

Among the pests, spider mites can sometimes be seen.