SafePlants

Chamaecrista lineata: Narrow-pod Sensitive-pea

Chamaecrista lineata, commonly known as Narrow-pod Sensitive-pea, is a species of plant belonging to the Chamaecrista genus. It is also known as Key Cassia.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant has pods and small seeds that might be tempting to pets.
• The leaves are sensitive and fold together when touched, which may be interesting, or startling, to animals.

Considerations for Children

• This plant has pods and small seeds that might be tempting to children.
• The leaves are sensitive and fold together when touched, which may be interesting to children.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Chamaecrista lineata (Sw.) Greene
• Family: Pea Family (Fabaceae)
• Synonyms/Alternative Names: Key Cassia, Narrow-pod Sensitive-pea
• Related Species: Chamaecrista fasciculata (Partridge Pea), Chamaecrista nictitans (Wild Sensitive Plant)

Common Names

• Narrow-pod Sensitive-pea
• Partridge Pea
• Sleeping Plant
• Sensitive Plant
• Prairie Senna
• Large-flowered Sensitive-pea
• Dwarf Cassia
• Senna
• Locust Weed

Distribution and Habitat

• Not found in Idaho.

Morphology and Growth

• The fruit is a straight, narrow pod, typically 1 to 2 inches long, that splits open along two sutures to release seeds.
• Flowers are often marked with red.
• Leaves are compound and pinnately divided with narrow, linear leaflets.
• Leaves are "sensitive," folding together when touched or in response to daylight changes.
• Pods are dark brown and 2-3 inches long when mature.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Thrips (minute insects) may interact with the plant.
• Pea aphids might be found on the plant, particularly during pod formation.

Further Resources

• University of Florida/FLMNH Herbarium Digital: Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis Fabaceae FLAS 69189