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sensitive jointvetch

Scientific Name: Aeschynomene sensitiva

Family: Fabaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Sensitive Jointvetch (Aeschynomene virginica)

Aeschynomene virginica, commonly known as Virginia jointvetch or sensitive jointvetch, is a rare annual flowering plant belonging to the legume family (Fabaceae).

Considerations for Pets

  • The plant is described as having foliage sensitive to the touch, which might be a concern for curious pets.

Considerations for Children

  • The plant is described as having foliage sensitive to the touch, which might attract children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Aeschynomene virginica (L.) Britton, Sterns &amp Poggenb.
  • Family: Fabaceae (Pea Family)
  • Synonyms:
    • Mentioned is Aeschynomene sensitiva var. sensitiva and Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw., but these may not be direct synonyms of A. virginica.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the eastern United States.
  • Specifically found in freshwater tidal marshes along the mid-Atlantic coast.
  • Reported locations include: Cumberland, New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia (Potomac, Rappahannock, Mattaponi, James River), and North Carolina.

Morphological Characteristics

  • An annual legume that can attain a height of 3-6 ft (1-2 m) in a single growing season.
  • Stems are typically single.
  • Leaves fold slightly when touched, hence the name "sensitive."
  • Leaves pinnate, occasionally sensitive, 5-10 cm long.

Conservation Status

  • Considered a rare species.
  • State-listed as Endangered and Federally-listed as Threatened in some areas.
  • Globally rare, but Aeschynomene pratensis is common in Florida, adding to the confusion of the plant's rarity.

Resources and Further Information

  • U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Northeast Region.
  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database.
  • BISON Web Link: http://bison.usgs.ornl.gov/api/scientificName/Aeschynomene%20virginica
  • ITIS Web Link (unspecified).
  • U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service publication: "Sensitive Joint-vetch: A Threatened Species".
  • National Collection of Imperiled Plants.