PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates coastal salt spray and strong winds
Watering
Drought-tolerant once established; water deeply but infrequently to avoid waterlogging sandy soil
Temperature
Cold hardy to subzero coastal temperatures; tolerates frost and cool summer heat
Characteristics
- Leaf: Compound pinnate leaves with 2–6 oval leaflet pairs and slender tendrils for climbing
- Flower: Clustered pea-like blooms in pink, purple, or white; 1–2 cm in diameter
- Stem: Slender trailing stems that root at nodes to stabilize sandy substrates
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil slightly moist during active growth; avoid overwatering
Fertilization
Diluted balanced liquid feed once monthly. Use low-nitrogen feed to prioritize flower production over leaf growth
Dried eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried eggshells into fine powder and sprinkle around the base of plants; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent irritationPruning
- Trim back dead or yellowing foliage in late autumn to encourage new spring growth
- Pinch back trailing stems to promote bushier, more compact growth
- Remove spent flower heads to extend the flowering period
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic if ingested in large quantities; may cause tremors, muscle weakness, or impaired movement
Humans: Contains neurotoxic amino acids; large, prolonged ingestion may cause muscle weakness or lathyrism
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Coastal erosion control, ornamental ground cover for sandy gardens
