Bagpod
Sesbania vesicaria
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–60" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, FL, GA, LA and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bagpod is a native annual wildflower that produces bright yellow pea-like flowers from summer through early fall. This upright plant can reach up to 5 feet tall with delicate compound leaves and distinctive inflated seed pods that give it its common name.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bagpod takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Tall weedy appearance conflicts with manicured landscape expectations
- Annual nature creates seasonal bare spots
- Inflated seed pods may be considered messy or unkempt
Wildlife value
The bright yellow flowers attract native bees and butterflies throughout the long blooming season. Seeds provide food for birds when pods mature in fall.
Common questions
- How much sun does Bagpod need?
- Bagpod grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Bagpod bloom?
- Bagpod blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Bagpod native?
- Bagpod (Sesbania vesicaria) is native to AL, FL, GA, LA and 4 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Bagpod attract?
- Bagpod draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Bagpod HOA-friendly?
- Bagpod takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Bagpod? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz