PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial sun; thrives in open, sunny meadows and tolerates light shade in hot climates
Watering
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil is dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot in heavy soils
Temperature
Thrives in cool temperate conditions; avoid prolonged heat above 28°C which may reduce flowering
Characteristics
- Leaf: Palmate compound leaves with 5–9 soft, silvery-green leaflets covered in fine hairs
- Flower: Dense terminal spikes of bright yellow pea-like flowers, 1–2 cm long
- Stem: Erect, hairy green stems branching near the base
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist during active growth and flowering
Fertilization
Light low-nitrogen feed at planting. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which may promote leaf growth over flowering
Eggshell powder topdress：Crush dried, rinsed eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle 1 teaspoon around the base of each plant and water in lightly to release nutrientsPruning
- Deadhead spent flower spikes to prevent unwanted self-seeding in managed gardens
- Remove yellowing lower leaves to improve airflow and reduce disease risk
- Trim back leggy stems in mid-spring to encourage bushier growth and more flower spikes
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion may cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and seizures in severe cases
Humans: Contains toxic alkaloids; ingestion causes nausea, vomiting, and muscle weakness in large quantities
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: Symbolizes imagination and cheerful energy in some European folk traditions
Usage: Ornamental wildflower; nitrogen-fixing cover crop to improve soil fertility
