SafePlants

Chamaecrista deeringiana

Also known as the Florida Keys Sensitive Pea, Chamaecrista deeringiana is a native perennial subshrub forb/herb belonging to the Bean family (Fabaceae).

Considerations for Pets

• As a member of the Bean family (Fabaceae), it is important to research the potential effects of ingestion for specific animal species.

Considerations for Children

• As a member of the Bean family (Fabaceae), it is important to research the potential effects of ingestion for specific child development stages.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Chamaecrista deeringiana Small & Pennell
• Family: Fabaceae (Bean Family)
• Synonyms/Common Names: Florida Keys Sensitive Pea, Florida Senna, Deering's Partridge Pea. It is also referred to with various other common names like Sensitive Pea.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to the Southeastern United States, specifically Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi.
• Frequently found in the Florida Keys and Everglades National Park.
• The plant's presence is also noted in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and the Florida Keys Wildlife and Environmental Area (FKWEA).

Morphological Characteristics

• Characterized as a perennial subshrub forb/herb.
• Flowers year-round in the Everglades National Park.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Eurema nise (a butterfly species) is associated with Chamaecrista deeringiana.
• It is a host plant for the Cloudless Sulphur Butterfly.
• Bees are attracted to its flowers.

Further Information

• Additional information can be found on Garden Guides for gardening information.
• Records are available through the Floristic Inventory of the Florida Keys Database Online and the University of Florida/FLMNH Herbarium Digital Collections.