PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun exposure is ideal for optimal flowering; tolerates partial shade in hot, arid regions to prevent leaf scorch.
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is completely dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot in poorly drained soils.
Temperature
Thrives in cool to temperate temperatures; avoid frost damage to young seedlings in late spring, as mature plants can tolerate light frosts.
Characteristics
- Leaf: Palmate compound leaves with 5–9 narrow, silvery-green leaflets covered in fine, silvery trichomes
- Flower: Dense terminal racemes of pea-like blooms in shades of purple, pink, or white
- Stem: Erect, hairy stems branching from the basal crown
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth and flowering periods
Fertilization
Apply a phosphorus-rich feed once at planting to support root nodule development. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers, as they can inhibit nitrogen fixation by root nodules.
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried, rinsed eggshells into a fine powder; sprinkle lightly on the soil surface around the base of the plant to add calcium without disrupting nitrogen fixation.Pruning
- Deadhead spent flower racemes to encourage extended blooming and prevent self-seeding if desired
- Remove yellowing or damaged foliage to improve airflow and reduce fungal disease risk
- Cut back the entire plant to ground level after senescence in late summer to clear garden beds for subsequent plantings
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed toxic; contains quinolizidine alkaloids that may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and neurological signs
Humans: Ingestion of large quantities of seeds or foliage may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to quinolizidine alkaloids
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental garden plant; cover crop for soil nitrogen enrichment; forage for livestock in some regions
