Overview
Tephrosia virginiana is a plant with a clump-forming habit in the genus Tephrosia, part of the Fabaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Tephrosia virginiana grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include border and ground cover.
About
Tephrosia virginiana, also known as goat-rue, goat's rue, catgut, rabbit pea, Virginia tephrosia, hoary pea, and devil's shoestring is a perennial dicot in family Fabaceae. The plant is native to central and eastern North America.
About the genus
Tephrosia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Fabaceae. It is widespread in both the Eastern and Western Hemisphere, where it is found in tropical and warm-temperate regions.
Wikipedia contributors, "Tephrosia", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Tephrosia
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Tephrosia
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moderate
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H4
Plant details
Tephrosia virginiana size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Clump-forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Border, Ground cover
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Tephrosia virginiana
- Propagation
- Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings
- Pest resistance
- High
- Disease resistance
- High
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Tephrosia virginiana?
Tephrosia virginiana prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Tephrosia virginiana need?
Tephrosia virginiana grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moderate.
Is Tephrosia virginiana hardy in the UK?
Tephrosia virginiana has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.
How do I propagate Tephrosia virginiana?
Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings.