Chamaecrista nictitans (Wild Sensitive-Pea)

A smaller-flowered, more compact relative of partridge pea, wild sensitive-pea brings the same nitrogen-fixing, fast-establishing utility to disturbed or sandy sites, with genuine larval host value for two named sulphur butterfly species.

Species Overview

Chamaecrista nictitans, commonly known as wild sensitive-pea or sensitive partridge pea, is a native, self-sowing annual wildflower in the pea family. It is found in a variety of habitats including woodland borders, prairies, wet shores, dry sandy soil, and disturbed areas along roadsides. Its leaflets fold together when touched, giving the plant its common name. Small yellow flowers appear on slender stems, followed by pea-like seed pods.

Application

• Erosion control and cover on disturbed, sandy, or low-fertility soils
• Naturalized meadow and roadside plantings
• Larval host habitat for Little Sulphur and Cloudless Sulphur butterflies
• Nitrogen-fixing component in restoration seed mixes

Growing Conditions / Specification Data

• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil/Moisture Tolerance: Dry, sandy, clay, and disturbed soils; adaptable to a range of conditions including occasional wetness
• Growth Rate: Rapid
• Plant Type: Forb (annual)
• Mature Height: 6 in.-1 ft. (some sources cite up to 20 in.; see flags)
• Fall Color: Insignificant/None
• Bloom Color / Period: Yellow; July-September
• Wetland Indicator Status: FACU (Facultative Upland)
• Native Range: United States, Mexico, and parts of Central and South America
• Hydrology: Dry-Mesic
• Root Depth: Moderate (12-24 in.)
• Salinity Tolerance: Low
• Drought Tolerance: Moderate
• Deer Resistance: Some
• Flood Tolerance: Low - A dry-mesic species, similar in habitat to its relative partridge pea; not tolerant of standing water.
• Shade Tolerance: Intermediate
• Growth Habit: Upright
• Pollinator Value: Larval host, supports butterflies

Planting Guidance

• Plant seed about 1/4-3/4 in. deep in late spring to early summer; germinates quickly.