Common Silkpod

(Parsonsia straminea)

Common Silkpod (Parsonsia straminea)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Parsonsia straminea, commonly known as Common Silkpod or Monkey Rope, is a vigorous, evergreen woody vine native to the rainforest margins, open woodlands, and floodplains of New South Wales and Queensland, Australia. It is well-adapted to climb by twining around supports, with its leathery, glossy green leaves providing a lush backdrop for the clusters of fragrant, pale yellow flowers that appear in spring and summer. The flowers are tubular and attractive to a variety of pollinators. This species can reach substantial lengths, often exceeding 10 meters when supported.

Common Silkpod is valued for its fast growth and ability to quickly cover trellises, arbors, and fences, making it a popular choice for creating green screens in gardens. It is also used in habitat restoration projects due to its association with native butterfly species, such as the Common Crow and Cairns Hamadryad, whose caterpillars rely on it as a food source. In cultivation, Parsonsia straminea prefers a position in full sun to part shade, with well-drained soil and regular watering to establish. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant. Gardeners should be aware that it can become quite large and may require pruning to keep it in check. There are no major disease problems, but it can be susceptible to scale insects and mealybugs.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Vine
  • Height: 6-30 feet
  • Width: 3-10 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Shade
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Rainforest margins, open woodlands, and floodplains

Other Names

Common Names: Monkey Rope

Scientific Names: , Parsonsia straminea, Lyonsia reticulata, Lyonsia straminea, Parsonsia reticulata, Parsonsia straminea var. glabrata,

GBIF Accepted Name: