How to Grow Running Postman
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Running Postman
Kennedia prostrata
vineRunning Postman is a low-growing Australian native vine with vibrant scarlet-red flowers and distinctive black markings that resemble a postman's uniform. It produces attractive pea-like blooms and is prized for ground cover, hanging baskets, and cascading applications. This evergreen perennial is drought-tolerant once established and offers year-round visual interest.
When should you plant Running Postman in your zone?
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Example Running Postman timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Running Postman
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Running Postman
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Running Postman dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Best suited to warm, frost-free regions (zones 9-11); can be grown in cooler zones as an annual or in containers brought indoors
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Get my Running Postman timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
3-4 weeksSeeds sprout and produce first true leaves; delicate seedlings with simple compound foliage
Maintain consistent moisture until established. Use well-draining seed mix. Provide warm conditions (70-75°F). Seeds may take 3-4 weeks to germinate.
Vegetative Growth
6-8 weeksVigorous trailing growth with increasing foliage coverage; plant develops runner stems and deeper root system
Water regularly but let soil dry slightly between waterings. Begin light feeding monthly with balanced fertilizer. Prune to encourage bushier growth if desired.
Flowering
8-12 weeks (multiple flushes possible)Abundant scarlet-red flowers with black blotches appear along stems; flowers arranged in small clusters
Maintain consistent watering during flowering. Apply balanced or low-nitrogen fertilizer to encourage blooms. Deadhead spent flowers to extend flowering period.
Seed Pod Development
6-8 weeksSmall pea-like seed pods develop where flowers were; pods mature and dry on the plant
Reduce watering slightly. Allow pods to fully mature if seeds are desired for collecting. Pods split when dry.
Establishment & Dormancy
Ongoing; winter dormancy 2-3 months in zones 9Plant becomes increasingly drought-tolerant; growth slows in winter (cooler zones) or maintains year-round in warm climates
Minimal watering in winter. Remove winter damage in spring. Prune back by 1/3 in early spring to rejuvenate. Apply light mulch in cooler zones.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use miticide if severe. Increase humidity slightly. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen.
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Remove heavily infested leaves.
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Spray with rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap. Remove with cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
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Scrape off manually; apply horticultural oil spray in early spring before new growth.
Uses
Pollinator Attraction
WildlifeRunning Postman's distinctive red flowers attract native Australian bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it valuable for supporting local ecosystems and gardens. [source]
Cut Flowers & Floral Arrangements
CraftThe vibrant scarlet blooms with black markings provide striking visual interest in fresh flower arrangements and bouquets, lasting several days in water. [source]
Ground Cover & Landscaping
HouseholdUsed extensively for erosion control on slopes, cascading over walls, and as low-maintenance ground cover due to its spreading habit and drought tolerance once established. [source]
Container & Hanging Basket Culture
HouseholdTrailing habit makes it ideal for hanging baskets, window boxes, and container gardening, where the cascading stems and flowers create dramatic visual displays. [source]
Traditional Aboriginal Uses
MedicinalAustralian Aboriginal peoples traditionally used Kennedia species for various purposes, though modern herbal applications are limited; primarily ornamental in contemporary use. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Cut stems for arrangements or pruning once plant is established (at least 6 months old). For seed collection, allow pods to fully dry on plant, then collect and store in cool, dry location. Best cut flowers taken in early morning when blooms are fresh.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Running Postman' references the flower's resemblance to a red postman's uniform with black postal markings, and its vigorous trailing growth habit.
- 🌱 Kennedia prostrata is endemic to Australia and is the floral emblem of Western Australia, valued for its ability to thrive in sandy, infertile soils.
- 🌱 The distinctive black blotches on the red petals are believed to serve as 'nectar guides,' helping native pollinators locate the flower's center and rewards.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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