Dichrostachys Cinerea 10 Seeds, Chinese Lantern Shrub, Sickle Bush, Garden Flowers

The Plant Attraction

$4.75 

Dichrostachys Cinerea
Also known as: The Sickle Bush, Chinese Lantern

Widespread and common throughout much of tropical Africa and also occurs in Australia, Burma and India. This spiny, deciduous shrub or small tree, can grow up to 7 meters high (25-30 feet), with a rounded crown, 3 meters wide. Lovely, scented, hanging, pink and yellow flowers hang like 'princess earrings' and eventually fade to white. It blooms sporadically throughout the year. Widely used for bonsai since it has tiny leaflets and flexible shape.

It is a nitrogen-fixing legume and therefore has a positive effect on the nitrogen content of the soil. It also has the ability to curb erosion. High salt tolerance. Noted as having antibacterial and astringent properties. The roots are also noted as having been used in rheumatism and renal troubles.

Seeds born in clusters of twisted pods are said to have a long viability, with reports of slow germination. Once established though, they are fast growing, sometimes becoming invasive is areas that are not controlled. It requires little water and full sun; mature plants can withstand moderate frost, but young plants must be protected. It grows best in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11.

This offer is for 10 seeds.