Dusky coral pea (Kennedia rubicunda)

Also known as: Dusky Coral Pea, Coral Vine

The plant in question is a robust climber, capable of reaching lengths up to 4 meters. It features oval leaflets grouped in threes, each leaflet measuring approximately 2.5 to 13 cm in length. The dark red pea flowers are arranged in racemes and bloom primarily from late winter to spring, with a peak period from fall to winter. Following the flowering phase, the plant produces oblong pods that are 5 to 10 cm long and 8 to 13 mm wide, characterized by a rusty, hairy texture and containing 10 to 15 seeds per pod.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Dusky coral pea

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

Up to 3 meters

Spread

Variable, depending on support structure

Leaf Color

Dark green

Flower Size

Approximately 3 cm

Flower Color

Red

Images of Dusky coral pea

Quickly Identify Dusky coral pea

Identifiable by its elongated trifoliate leaves and vibrant red pea-like flowers. The plant produces bean-shaped pods after flowering. It uses tendrils to climb and spread across surfaces.

Scientific Classification of Dusky coral pea

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Fabales

Family

Legume

Genus

Coral pea

Species

Dusky coral pea

Planting and Growing of Dusky coral pea

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Dusky coral pea?

For Kennedia rubicunda, it is essential to water it thoroughly but not excessively. Aim for about 500 ml each time, ensuring the water reaches deep into the root zone without leaving the soil waterlogged. This balance helps maintain optimal moisture levels without promoting root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Dusky coral pea? ›

What should I do if my Dusky coral pea is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Dusky coral pea? ›

How to save an overwatered Dusky coral pea? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Dusky coral pea?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours daily

Kennedia rubicunda thrives in full sun to partial sun, ideally receiving 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily. This exposure boosts photosynthetic efficiency, promoting more vibrant, lush foliage and prolific blooming, vital for garden aesthetics and ecosystem balance.

What is the ideal sunlight intensity? ›

What time of day is best for sun exposure? ›

How can I ensure the plant gets sufficient sunlight? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Dusky coral pea?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Kennedia rubicunda is between 60°F and 75°F. This range provides the plant with optimal conditions for growth and flower production. At these temperatures, metabolic processes proceed smoothly, promoting healthy foliage and vibrant blooms.

What Soil is Best for Dusky coral pea?

Soil type: Sandy loam, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Kennedia rubicunda thrives in soils that have excellent drainage. Good drainage prevents root rot and helps maintain the right moisture balance, essential for healthy root development and floral growth. This plant benefits from soils rich in organic matter that provide essential nutrients. A nutrient-rich soil promotes vigorous growth and vibrant blooms, contributing to the plant's overall vitality and resilience. Moderate moisture retention is ideal for Kennedia rubicunda, ensuring that the plant receives adequate hydration without becoming waterlogged. This balance aids in maintaining healthy root systems.

How to Fertilize Dusky coral pea?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Kennedia rubicunda, use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength. Apply about 1 quart per mature plant during the growing season. Ensure the soil is moist, not dry, before applying fertilizer to avoid root burn.

How to Prune Dusky coral pea?

Pruning Time: Spring

Begin by cleaning your pruning tools with a disinfectant to avoid transferring any diseases. Identify the main branches of the Kennedia rubicunda and target dead, damaged, or diseased wood first. Use sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts about a quarter inch above a bud. Prune selectively to maintain the natural form of the plant, focusing on thinning out dense areas to improve air circulation and light penetration. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Dusky coral pea plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early Spring, Late Spring

Prior to sowing, it's beneficial to soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat and facilitate easier germination. This step is crucial in breaking dormancy and enhancing germination rates.

Prepare a well-draining potting mix that combines loamy soil, sand, and compost. This mixture provides the optimal environment for seed growth and rooting of cuttings by ensuring adequate aeration and nutrient availability.

For cutting propagation, select healthy, semi-hardwood stems about 10-15 cm long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting in the prepared medium to encourage root development.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Dusky coral pea plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2–3 years

Kennedia rubicunda shows signs of needing repotting when roots begin to escape from drainage holes or the soil seems waterlogged despite usual watering habits. Also, if the plant's growth has noticeably slowed, it's time to refresh its environment.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one. The new pot should be slightly wider than the root ball and must have drainage holes to prevent overwatering, ensuring root health and preventing rot.

Opt for well-draining sandy loam soil, which helps avoid root rot in Kennedia rubicunda. This soil type retains enough moisture to hydrate the plant while allowing excess water to drain away, minimizing the risk of waterlogging.