About Aotus ericoides (Vent.) G.Don
Aotus ericoides (Vent.) G.Don is a variable shrub that can reach up to 2 meters (6 feet 7 inches) in height. Its stems are often covered in short, matted hairs that are either rusty or greyish in colour. Leaves are arranged in whorls of 3 or more, though they may also grow alternately or oppositely. Leaf shape varies between two main forms: egg-shaped (broad at the base, narrowing toward the apex), or long and narrow. Leaves measure approximately 6 to 20 millimeters (0.24 to 0.79 inches) long, 1 to 5 millimeters (0.039 to 0.197 inches) wide, and grow on a stalk 1 to 2 millimeters (0.039 to 0.079 inches) long. The leaf edges may curve backward or roll under. The upper surface of the leaf is either covered in small wart-like protuberances, or smooth with occasional long hairs. The species produces single yellow pea flowers, which have a red-orange band surrounding a yellow centre, and bright yellow wings and keel. Flower bracts measure about 2 millimeters (0.079 inches) long, while flower pedicels are also 2 millimeters (0.079 inches) long. The calyx edge has pointed teeth, the calyx itself is covered in long, soft hairs, and measures about 3 millimeters (0.12 inches) long. The fruit is a swollen, firm, egg-shaped seed capsule (pod) covered in long soft hairs. Flowering takes place from late winter to spring, and flowers develop in upper leaf axils. This species grows in heathland and dry sclerophyll forests on sandstone in Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and Tasmania. In New South Wales, it is found on the coast and in the Southern Highlands.
