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Green Birdflower Plant Seeds

Green birdflower is an Australian shrub with bird shaped green flowers. Most buyers start from seed.

Updated . Edited by: Ilyass Ben Hakim.

Where to buy

Australian native seed shops sell it as regal birdflower. Live plants are rare outside Australia, so most overseas buyers order seed.

Professional insight

Native growers search the Latin name, then check seed age and origin.

  • Search the Latin name, not only birdflower.
  • Ask for the seed harvest year.
  • Hard seed coats need scarifying or hot water soaking.
  • Check seed import and invasive plant rules first.

Check the label

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Green birdflower at a glance

Botanical name
Crotalaria cunninghamii
Native range
Arid central and northern Australia
Height
About 1 to 3 m

Setup tips

  1. 1Nick or soak seeds in hot water to soften the coat.
  2. 2Sow in sandy, free draining mix.
  3. 3Germinate near the mid 60s °F.
  4. 4Expect sprouts within about 3 weeks.
  5. 5Plant out in full sun once roots fill the pot.

Care

  • Water lightly. It suits dry, sandy soil.
  • Avoid heavy clay and wet roots.
  • Protect young plants from frost.
  • It is short lived, so save seed each year.

Safe use

  • Do not eat any part of the plant.
  • Keep it away from grazing livestock.
  • Wash hands after handling seed pods.

Common questions

Is green birdflower the same as regal birdflower?
Yes. Both are common names for Crotalaria cunninghamii.
Can I grow it outside the tropics?
Outdoors it suits USDA zones 10 and 11. Elsewhere, bring pots in for winter.
Can I import seeds into my country?
Rules vary. Check your plant quarantine agency first.