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Central QLD Coast Landcare Network

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Pongamia

Millettia pinnata, Fam. Fabaceae


A dense, spreading, deciduous tree 5-10m high, with smooth, creamy brown bark. Previously known as Pongamia pinnata.

Weed Category:
Weed: No
Form or habit: Small tree
Family: Fabaceae
Leaf:
Pinnate, to 25cm long. Two to three pairs of egg shaped leaflets and a terminal leaflet. Dark green, glossy, thin textured, pointed tip, 4.5-15 x 3.7-9cm, increasing in size from the inner to the terminal leaflet. The flush of new growth after the deciduous period is a delicate golden bronze colour.
Flower conspicuous: Conspicuous
Flower colour:

White, Pink, Lilac

Flower description: Pink white to lilac pea flowers, about 1cm long. Borne on axillary racemes 8-12cm long. August to February.
Fruit conspicuous: Conspicuous
Fruit colour:

Brown

Fruit:
Fruit description: Light brown, woody, oblong, flat, smooth pods, 4-6 x 1.5-3cm. One to two red brown seed.
Habitat: Gallery (riverine or riparian) forest, rainforest, vine thicket.
Distribution Queensland, Northern Territory, New Guinea, Malesia.
Food source for:
Toxicity: All parts of the plant are thought to carry a toxin which causes vomiting.
Origin: Australia, New Guinea, Malesia.
Notes: A fast growing tree ideal for stream banks or coastal stabilisation. Appreciates regular moisture. Propagate from scarified fresh seed.
Information sources: Atlas of Living Australia (2022) Millettia pinnata (L.) Panigrahi., Townsend K. & the Society for Growing Australian Plant Townsville Branch Inc. (1994) Across the Top: Gardening with Australian Plants in the tropics.

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