Contents
Description
Chamaecrista Nictitans, also known as the sensitive partridge pea, is a species of flowering plant in the Fabaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in various regions such as the Great Plains, East Coast, and Gulf Coast. This plant is an annual or short-lived perennial that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has pinnate leaves and yellow flowers that bloom from July to October. The flowers have five petals with a distinctively curved upper one. The plant’s pods are flat and contain several seeds that are dispersed by the wind.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Chamaecrista |
Appearance
The sensitive partridge pea has a unique appearance with its pinnate leaves and yellow flowers. The leaves are arranged in an alternate pattern and have 10-20 pairs of leaflets that are oblong in shape. The flowers are bright yellow and bloom in clusters at the top of the stem. They have five petals, with the upper petal being curved and pointed. The plant’s pods are flat and contain several seeds that are dispersed by the wind. Overall, the sensitive partridge pea is a beautiful plant that can add a pop of color to any garden.
Care Guide
To properly care for the sensitive partridge pea, it is important to consider its water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones.- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. It is important to water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: The sensitive partridge pea does not require much fertilization. A balanced fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is nutrient-rich. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is important to ensure that the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day.- Hardiness Zones: The sensitive partridge pea is hardy in zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The sensitive partridge pea is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and leaf spot. Spider mites and aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap, while leaf spot can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The sensitive partridge pea is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including prairies, meadows, and roadsides. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun. The plant is also used in ecological restoration projects to help restore disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the sensitive partridge pea an annual or perennial plant?
A: The sensitive partridge pea can be an annual or short-lived perennial plant.
Q: What is the blooming period for the sensitive partridge pea?
A: The plant blooms from July to October.
Q: How tall can the sensitive partridge pea grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Q: What is the preferred soil type for the sensitive partridge pea?
A: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is nutrient-rich.
Related Plants
– Chamaecrista fasciculata- Chamaecrista nana- Chamaecrista rotundifolia- Chamaecrista scandens- Chamaecrista senna- Chamaecrista texana
References
– USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Chamaecrista nictitans (L.) Moench. Retrieved June 2, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CHNI- Native Plant Trust. (n.d.). Chamaecrista nictitans. Retrieved June 2, 2021, from https://www.nativeplanttrust.org/plants/chamaecrista-nictitans/
