Scarlet Pea
Indigofera miniata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
3"–6" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AL, FL, KS, LA and 2 more states
Pollinators
butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Scarlet Pea is a low-growing native wildflower that forms spreading mats of small compound leaves. It produces tiny orange-red pea flowers nearly year-round, creating consistent color in sunny, dry areas. This drought-tolerant groundcover works well as a living mulch or border edging.
In an HOA neighborhood
Scarlet Pea is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The long blooming period provides nectar for butterflies and other small pollinators throughout most of the growing season. As a legume, it also helps fix nitrogen in the soil.
Common questions
- How much sun does Scarlet Pea need?
- Scarlet Pea grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Scarlet Pea bloom?
- Scarlet Pea blooms in March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November.
- Where is Scarlet Pea native?
- Scarlet Pea (Indigofera miniata) is native to AL, FL, KS, LA and 2 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Scarlet Pea attract?
- Scarlet Pea draws butterflies.
- Is Scarlet Pea HOA-friendly?
- Scarlet Pea is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Scarlet Pea fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.