Spurred Butterfly Pea

Centrosema virginianum

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Centrosema
Species:
Centrosema virginianum

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb , Vine
Height:
12-20 ft
Light Requirements:
Part Shade, Shade
Bloom Months:
jul, aug
Bloom Colors:
Pink, Blue, Purple

Native Range

United States: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Virgin Islands

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Epinotia unica, Southern Cloudywing (Thorybes bathyllus), Zarucco Duskywing (Erynnis zarucco)

Reported Fauna Sightings

Bees: American bumble bee (Bombus pensylvanicus), American bumble bee (Bombus pensylvanicus), Common eastern bumble bee (Bombus impatiens), Common eastern bumble bee (Bombus impatiens)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
thrives in open, sunny areas