Slick-seed Fuzzy Bean
Strophostyles leiosperma
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
24"–120" H × 12"–60" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CO, IL and 12 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Slick-seed bean is a native annual vine that climbs or trails through other plants, reaching 2-10 feet in length. It produces small pink to purple pea-like flowers from July through September, followed by small edible bean pods. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in full sun and poor soils where other plants struggle.
In an HOA neighborhood
Slick-seed Fuzzy 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.
- Vine growth habit appears uncontrolled
- Can look weedy or wild
- Annual nature creates gaps when plant dies back
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and butterflies during the summer blooming period. Seeds provide food for birds and small mammals in fall.
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 Slick-seed Fuzzy Bean fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.