Genus Psoralea

Psoralea pinnata Photo/Illustration: Michelle Gervais

sor-AL-ee-ah

Psoralea is a genus of 150 species of perennials and evergreen shrubs from the Americas and South Africa grown for their abundant, pea-like flowers. Leaves are small, scale-like, and downy or hairy. Grow in a border or as a specimen.
Noteworthy characteristics: Pea-like flowers in white or shades of blue, purple, pink, or yellow.
Care: Grow in full sun (for best bloom) and light, moist but well-drained soil. Prune after flowering to keep plants in bounds.
Propagation: Start from seed or cuttings.

Species, varieties and cultivars for genus Psoralea

Psoralea pinnata
(African scurf pea, Blue pea) (1 user review)

Hardiness Zones:

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

This short-lived shrub or small tree with feathery foliage is blanketed in late spring with fragrant, pea-shaped violet blooms with white wings. Though it is native to streamsides, scurf pea doesn't require extravagant watering and survives occasional drought. When the plants eventually die, they leave ample progeny and straight branches useful for garden stakes. Combine with azaleas and camellias, which bloom at the same time.

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