About
A strong, vigorous, low-growing, spreading rhizomatous perennial legume to around 100cm in height, with trailing stems of green, pinnate foliage. Pink-white, pea-like flowers appear in neat circles on upright stems from May through to July. May become a nuisance if grown amongst other plants in a border, but a great choice for wildflower meadows or as cover for banks and slopes. Drought resistant, nitrogen-fixing and good for controlling soil erosion. A great pollinator plant, particularly for bees and depends on these in order to produce seed.
About the genus
Securigera is a diverse genus of plants that may be annual, perennial, or woody. Species are cultivated for their flowers, foliage, or architectural habit and are adapted to various climatic conditions
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesWildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Native toC & S Europe
ToxicityHumans/Pets: harmful if eaten. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling For further information and contact numbers regarding pets, see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants
Care notes
CultivationGrows in most soils, particularly well-drained poor soils in full sun. A great plant for wildflowers meadows or for banks and slopes where coverage is required and also as a nitrogen-fixing green crop. However, it has the potential to become a nuisance if not managed well amoungst other plants
PruningNo pruning required but old or diseased growth can be removed in late winter to early spring and it can be cut back to control growth and encourage a bushy habit
PropagationPropagate by seed or cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free