PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates intense direct sunlight in arid, low-humidity regions
Watering
Drought-tolerant; water only when the top 5 cm of soil is completely dry to avoid root rot
Temperature
Tolerates mild frost down to 5°C; thrives in warm, dry daytime temperatures with cool nights
Characteristics
- Leaf: Pinnately compound with deeply laciniated (cut) leaflets, creating a fern-like appearance
- Flower: Small yellow pea-like blooms produced in dense axillary clusters
- Fruit: Spiny bur-like pods that cling to fur, clothing, or animal coats for seed dispersal
Care Guide
Watering
Water sparingly when soil is fully dry; avoid overwatering during active growth
Fertilization
No regular fertilization needed. Excess fertilizer may reduce flower production and increase foliage growth
Crushed eggshell powder：Sprinkle a thin layer of finely crushed eggshells on the soil surface to improve drainage and add calcium; avoid overapplication to prevent soil alkalinityPruning
- Deadhead spent blooms to reduce excessive self-seeding and tidy garden appearance
- Trim back dying foliage after the plant completes its annual life cycle
- Thin overcrowded stems to improve airflow and reduce pest risk
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no adverse health effects reported
Humans: No known toxic effects to humans; young foliage may be consumed in small quantities as a wild edible
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Forage for grazing livestock; drought-tolerant ground cover; ornamental rock garden plant
