Chamaecrista fasciculata, the partridge pea, is a species of legume native to most of the eastern United States. It is an annual which grows to approximately 0.5 meters tall. It has bright yellow flowers from early summer until first frost, with flowers through the entire flowering season if rainfall is sufficient.
Family:
Fabaceae (Pea)
Height:
1 to 3 feet
Leaves:
Alternate, 2-3 inches long, with 20-30 small, narrow, almost feather-like leaflets
Flower:
Showy and yellow, up to 1 inch wide, with 5 round petals and dark red centers, in groups of 2 to 4 in the leaf axils
Bloom time:
July-September
Nicknames:
Showy Partridge Pea
Habitat:
Prairies, roadsides
Wildlife Benefits:
The seed provides food for birds. Long-tongued bees pollinate the flowers.
Can I plant this in my garden?
Prefers sun to part shade and dry soils. It is an annual plant but will drop seeds that may germinate and produce new plants in the next growing season.
References:
https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/partridge-pea
Family | Fabaceae |
---|---|
Habit | Forb |
Origin | native |
Life cycle | annual |
Flower | yellow |
Bloom time | (7) July, (8) August, (9) September |
*sites | Snail Lake |