Family: Fabaceae
Compound: Rhy sen
Synonyms:
Geographic Origin: SW US, N Mexico, SA
Characteristics: An vining perennial, with stems covered in short hairs. Stems are green, turning
brown with age. Leaves are pinnately trifoliate, covered in small hairs. Leaflets are variable in
shape, but are often widest ~1/3rd of their length from the stem, and taper to a slightly
rounded point at the end. Flowers are small and yellow. Fruits are small, flattened pods curved
slightly, and covered in small hairs. When ripe, the pods often peel open, sending 1-2 seeds
flying short distances from the plant. Seeds are small, brown speckled and smooth.
Natural History: Can be found in silty, sandy or rocky soils on slopes or flat areas. partial to full sun is tolerated. Climbs up larger plants, or grows prostrate. Blooms and seeds many times throughout the year.
Cultivation Notes: Not commonly available, but easily grown from seed. Burry seeds ~6mm
(0.25in) below soil surface and keep soil moist. Once established, it is very hardy, and will
produce seeds profusely. Can be a very aggressive grower, strangling or smothering nearby
plants. Plant underneath a large established tree, or below a trellis in partial sunlight.
For plant propagation information, click here
Ethnobotany: unknown
Citations:
SEINet Arizona - New Mexico Chapter
https://swbiodiversity.org/seinet/taxa/index.php?taxon=Rhynchosia+senna&formsubmit=Search+Terms#
Inaturalist
https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/138572-Rhynchosia-senna