Tornillo

Strombocarpa reptans

Native to:
Argentina, Peru, United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Strombocarpa
Species:
Strombocarpa reptans
USDA Symbol:
PRRE2

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Subshrub , Vine
Height:
30 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
apr,may,jun
Bloom Colors:
yellow
Ground Cover:
Yes
Lawn Substitute:
Yes

Wildlife Benefits

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

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Tailed Orange (Eurema proterpia)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes

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:
native to arid regions, prefers open, sunny areas

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Warm stratification required — 30–60 days
Scarification:
Seed coat scarification required before sowing
Germination Time:
7–30 days
Notes:
Seeds require scarification (nicking or hot water treatment) followed by warm stratification for 30-60 days to break dormancy.