Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates exposed, dry sites with minimal shade
Watering
Drought-tolerant; water only during prolonged dry spells to avoid root rot
Temperature
Hardy to frost; withstands hot, arid summer temperatures without supplemental cooling
Characteristics
- Leaf: Pinnately compound leaves with small, oval leaflets; silvery-green pubescent foliage
- Flower: Pea-like purple to pale pink blooms in dense axillary racemes
- Stem: Slender, branching stems with fine hairs to reduce moisture loss
Care Guide
Watering
Water occasionally during extended dry periods; allow soil to fully dry between waterings
Fertilization
Light application of diluted compost tea if growth is stunted. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can promote weak, leggy growth
Composted eggshell powder:Sprinkle a thin layer of finely ground, fully composted eggshells around the base of the plant; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent potential burningPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms to encourage self-seeding and extend flowering period
- Trim back faded foliage in late autumn to maintain a tidy growth habit
- Remove damaged or diseased stems in early spring before new growth emerges
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: No known toxicity to cats (per ASPCA guidelines)
Humans: No known toxicity to humans
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Pollinator-friendly wildflower for meadows; soil stabilization in dry, sloped areas
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