Poison-bean
Sesbania drummondii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, FL, LA, TX
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Sesbania drummondii is an annual wildflower that produces bright orange to yellow pea-like flowers from late spring through fall. This native legume grows 1-4 feet tall with compound leaves and attracts numerous pollinators during its long blooming season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Poison-bean 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.
- Common name includes 'poison' which may concern neighbors
- Can appear weedy or wild in formal landscapes
- Annual growth habit means gaps in winter
Wildlife value
Host plant for cloudless sulphur butterfly, silver-spotted skipper.
The abundant flowers provide nectar for bees and butterflies throughout the growing season. As a legume, it also fixes nitrogen in the soil, benefiting surrounding plants.
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.
Does Poison-bean fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.