Common names: partridge peas, showy partridge pea

Scientific names: Cassia fasciculata (Chamaecrista fasciculata, Cassia chamaecrista)

Seasons of significant use: summer (for C. fasciculata-C. nictitans complex)

Characteristics: Native, annual, warm season forb to 4.0 feet. Leaves alternate, pinnately compound, in 2 rows; leaflets mostly 8-15 pairs; flowers conspicuous, with 10 stamens; petals unequal, yellow, 0.39-0.71 inch; fruit is a linear pod to 2.7 inches. Flowers July-October.

Plant community type: Primarily in open uplands and bottomlands, but also found in wooded-open edge situations. Frequently found on disturbed sites.

Comments: Responds favorably to late winter burns as well as phosporous fertilization.

More Plant Photos and Descriptions:
Appendix C: Plants by Common Name
Appendix C: Plants by Scientific Name
Appendix C: Plants Listed by Family