Sensitive Pea Chamaecrista nictitans

The Sensitive Partridge Pea is a native self-sowing annual wildflower of the USA in the pea family (Fabaceae). It is found in a variety of habitats including woodland borders, prairies, wet shores, dry sandy soil, and disturbed areas along the roadsides. The descriptive name, sensitive, is based on the fact that the leaflets fold together when touched. The genus name is from the Greek words chamae for low growth and crista for crested. The species name is derived from Latin meaning “to wink”.

Plant it about ¼ - ¾ inches deep in late spring to early summer. The seeds germinate quickly to 4” to 20” tall. The summer blooms are showy small yellow flowers. They grow in a variety of soils but prefer sandy or well-drained soil to prevent root rot of their long tap root. It can tolerate partial shade, but grows better in full sun.

The Sensitive Partridge Pea builds soil nitrogen. It is used along highways to create a pollinator habitat and control erosion. It is considered weedy because it spreads to adjacent disturbed fields where there is no competition. It is a valuable food source for wildlife. The flower attracts pollinators, the seeds are eaten by small mammals and birds, and the nectar-producing gland on the stem attracts wasps, ants, and spiders. The plant is also consumed by livestock when nothing else is available. The Sensitive Partridge Pea is also native to Mexico and parts of South and Central America.

The Sensitive Patridge Pea is a useful cover crop because it improves the soil nitrogen content. Due to the deep tap root, you can place it on a slope or bank to control erosion. It can populate a disturbed area like a meadow or woodland edge.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: It is susceptible to nematodes.