Oahu Riverhemp 🛑 Endangered

Sesbania tomentosa

Native to:
Hawaii

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Sesbania
Species:
Sesbania tomentosa
USDA Symbol:
SETO3

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Shrub
Height:
300 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Low
Bloom Months:
mar,apr,may,jun,jul,aug,sep,oct
Bloom Colors:
orange, red, yellow

Wildlife Benefits

Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
Caterpillars:
★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, butterflies
Salt Tolerant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to coastal areas, tolerates saline conditions

Propagation & Germination

Scarification:
Seed coat scarification required before sowing
Notes:
Seeds require scarification (nicking or hot water treatment) to break physical dormancy.