Chamaecrista fasciculata - Partridge Pea

Morphology/Growth Habits: Chamaecrista fasciculata, commonly known as partridge pea, is a showy yellow annual flower in the legume family that typically grows to 1-3’ tall.  It blooms from late June to September and its seed pods are popular with birds. Golden yellow petals with maroon centers. Feathery, pinnately compound leaves that fold in when touched also give it the common name Sensitive Plant. These leaves are also sensitive to light, typically closing in the late afternoon and reopening the next morning. A pea-like seed pod follows the bright yellow flowers. Self-seeds, so it can be present in your garden for years despite its annual life cycle. 

Height: 1-3 ft.

Light: Full Sun

Moisture: Dry-Medium

Bloom color: Yellow

Bloom time: June-September

Habitat/Best Environments: This plant is found in frequently disturbed sites such as prairies, roadsides, and open woodlands. Drought-resistant. Great for erosion control. This plant is a pioneer species, meaning it can grow quickly in areas that are not hospitable to other plants. 

Ecological relationships: Member of the legume family, which is known to have an especially beneficial relationship between the bacteria on its roots and fungi in the soil—leading to higher nitrogen in the soil and more nutrients for your plants! 

Seed pods are popular with birds. It is an important food source for the northern bobwhite quail, hence the common name. The plants themselves provide cover for game birds and their flowers are a good source of nectar for bees and butterflies. 

Larval host plant for Cloudless Sulfur, Little Yellow, and Sleepy Orange butterflies. 

*Used in Muscogee medicine to treat nausea, and Cherokee medicine to prevent fatigue in athletes and treat fainting spells. 

Despite the name, it is not recommended to consume the fruits/seeds of this plant, as they may cause digestive irritation in large quantities.

*Please soil test and do proper research before growing a plant for human consumption.