Sensitive-pea
Chamaecrista nictitans
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, DE and 28 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Sensitive-pea is a small annual wildflower with delicate compound leaves that fold when touched, giving it its common name. It produces small yellow flowers throughout summer and fall, creating a fine-textured groundcover that typically stays under 2 feet tall.
In an HOA neighborhood
Sensitive-pea 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.
- Appears weedy and informal in structure
- Annual growth means bare patches in winter/spring
- Small wildflower appearance conflicts with traditional landscaping
Wildlife value
Host plant for cloudless sulphur, little yellow butterfly.
This native legume attracts various bees and butterflies with its bright yellow blooms from July through September. As a member of the pea family, it also fixes nitrogen in the soil naturally.
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 Sensitive-pea fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.