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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Sensitive-pea need?
- Sensitive-pea grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Sensitive-pea bloom?
- Sensitive-pea blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Sensitive-pea native?
- Sensitive-pea (Chamaecrista nictitans) is native to AL, AR, AZ, DE and 28 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What butterflies or moths does Sensitive-pea host?
- Sensitive-pea is a larval host plant for cloudless sulphur and little yellow butterfly.
- Is Sensitive-pea HOA-friendly?
- Sensitive-pea 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 Sensitive-pea? 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