Spartium L.

Greek sparton — rush, referring to the resemblance between this plant and the rushes.

For genus description see S. junceum.

Grown for the upright, rush-like stems and large flower clusters, sometimes as a hedge. Naturalised in warm, dry regions such as California and SA, where it is established along roadsides. In Vic it persists around old gardens.

1 species from the Mediterranean and SW Europe.

Seed.

A source of fibre, often blended with rayon or wool; stems sometimes used in basketry. An essential oil is extracted from the flowers and used in perfumes.

Rush-like branchlets; calyx with small, equal teeth; anthers bearded.

Source: Spencer, R. (2002). Fabaceae. In: Spencer, R.. Horticultural Flora of South-eastern Australia. Volume 3. Flowering plants. Dicotyledons. Part 2. The identification of garden and cultivated plants. University of New South Wales Press.

Hero image
kingdom Plantae
phylum   Tracheophyta
class    Magnoliopsida
superorder     Rosanae
order      Fabales
family       Fabaceae
Higher taxa
Subordinate taxa
species         Spartium junceum L.