Macroptilium lathyroides

Cultivation Details

Macroptilium lathyroides is found from low elevations in the subtropics up to elevations of 2,000 metres in the tropics. It is adapted to a wide mean annual rainfall range from 500 - 3,000 mm. The optimum day/night temperature for growth is 35/20°c. Plants can survive light frosts but are killed by heavier frosts, though they have usually produced their seed before this^{[1, 2]}. Prefers a sunny position but is tolerant of light to moderate shade^[2]. The plant is adapted to acid and alkaline soils, and a wide range of soil textures from sand (given reliable rainfall) to heavy clay. It can tolerate moderate salinity. It grows well in a freely draining soil, but is also tolerant of waterlogging and poor drainage and frequently grows in drains along the edges of roads^{[1, 2]}. Prefers a pH in the range 6 - 7, but can tolerate 5 - 8^[2]. The seed is ejected forcibly by the seedpod shattering when it is fully ripe and can be thrown several metres^[2]. Although it has become widely naturalised, it is rarely considered a serious weed^[2]. The plant is considered to be invasive in several Pacific Islands and in northern Australia^[3]. The plant survives drought by shedding its seed, which can lie dormant in the soil until wet weather returns^[1]. This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria; these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby^[2].