Horny Horned Pea

coronilla varia

Also known as: ["Horny Horned Pea","Sickle Medick","Scorpioid Medick"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Coronilla Category: Flowers

Overview

A deciduous shrub with pinnate leaves and yellow, pea-like flowers arranged in a scorpion-tail shape.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Coronilla
Botanical Name: Coronilla varia

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or as a specimen shrub
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or overwatering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct indoor light.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, moderately fertile soil

pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).

Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; test pH if needed.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 4–7; tolerates cold down to -30°F (-34°C); prefers moderate temperatures in summer.

Protect from frost in early spring; avoid placing in drafty areas; monitor for heat stress in summer.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize lightly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; water before and after feeding.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be sown in spring.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings.
  2. Apply rooting hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.

Hormone

Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut back stems to healthy buds; thin out crowded areas; shape as desired.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants.

Checklist

Prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly; place in shade for a few days.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth in extreme heat; browning or wilting in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Leaves may become brittle; growth slows or halts; roots can freeze in poorly drained soil.

Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect in pots by moving to sheltered locations; ensure soil is well-drained.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; growth may become leggy.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check soil nutrients; apply sparingly; water after fertilizing; monitor for signs of burn.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing; reduce or stop in late summer/autumn.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Coronilla varia may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations such as aphids or spider mites, which disrupt chlorophyll production.

Wilting in Coronilla varia can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to root damage and impaired water uptake.

Leaf spots on Coronilla varia may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to defoliation and reduced photosynthetic efficiency if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Coronilla varia is often associated with excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats are susceptible to mild toxicity from Coronilla varia, primarily affecting the gastrointestinal and nervous systems. The alkaloids present can induce discomfort and mild neurological signs.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression tremors
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. Seek veterinary care if ingestion is observed or suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Coronilla varia can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological symptoms due to the presence of alkaloids. The effects are typically not life-threatening but may require veterinary attention.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent dogs from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian promptly.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Coronilla varia contains toxic compounds, primarily alkaloids, which can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal and neurological disturbances upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to discomfort and temporary impairment.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea dizziness headache
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consumption of any part of the plant. Keep out of reach of children and ensure proper disposal of plant material.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Coronilla varia toxic to pets?

A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Does Coronilla varia attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: How difficult is it to care for Coronilla varia?

A: It has moderate care difficulty and maintenance requirements.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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