PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Requires full sun exposure to produce abundant blooms; tolerates partial shade but will flower less prolifically
Watering
Allow the top 2–3 cm of soil to dry completely between waterings; avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot
Temperature
Cold-hardy to -15°C; withstands mild frost and dry summer heat, but avoid prolonged temperatures above 30°C
Characteristics
- Leaf: Small, linear to lanceolate leaves arranged in whorls along slender stems
- Flower: Bright yellow pea-like blooms clustered in terminal racemes
- Stem: Winged green stems with fine, soft hairs
Care Guide
Watering
Water regularly during active growth, ensuring soil remains slightly moist but not saturated
Fertilization
Apply a diluted low-nitrogen organic fertilizer once monthly. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which promote excessive leaf growth over flowering
Eggshell powder top-dressing：Crush dried eggshells into a fine powder and sprinkle around the base of the plant; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent irritationPruning
- Trim faded flower heads immediately after blooming to encourage extended flowering
- Cut back overgrown or leggy stems in late winter to maintain a compact, mat-forming shape
- Remove dead or damaged growth in early spring to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion leads to vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and potential cardiac irregularities in severe cases
Humans: Contains quinolizidine alkaloids; ingestion causes gastrointestinal distress, dizziness, and weakness
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental ground cover for rock gardens; nitrogen-fixing plant that improves soil fertility
