Purple Tephrosia

tephrosia purpurea

Also known as: ["Purple Horse Poison","Wild Indigo"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Tephrosia Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A small, herbaceous plant with purple flowers and toxic properties, often found in tropical and subtropical regions.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Tephrosia
Botanical Name: Tephrosia purpurea

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in temperate to tropical regions
  • Suitable For:
    Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; tolerates poor soils but thrives with enrichment.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning during flowering
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates some shade but may become leggy.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid leaf burn; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; adjust placement based on light intensity.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering or poor drainage), stunted growth (nutrient deficiency or compacted soil), root rot (waterlogged soil).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep roots; avoid waterlogging; adjust based on season and weather.

Soil

well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0).

Use raised beds in heavy soils; avoid compacted soil; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Thrives in warm conditions (20-30°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers temperatures above 10°C.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in fall to prepare for dormancy; use organic options for slow release.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4-6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (20-25°C), humid environment with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3-4 weeks; new growth appears in 6-8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches.

Pruning Plan

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

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased parts first; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings properly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2-3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2-3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent standing water.

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

Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop or wilting in extreme cold; stunted growth or yellowing in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth and may cause leaf drop; prolonged cold can lead to root damage or death.

Solution: Move to a sheltered location or indoors during cold spells; provide a layer of mulch to insulate roots.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dry conditions.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4-6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Tephrosia purpurea can indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Tephrosia purpurea is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to reduced growth and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Tephrosia purpurea are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, which can reduce photosynthetic efficiency and lead to premature leaf drop.

Rotting in Tephrosia purpurea, particularly root or stem rot, is commonly caused by overwatering or fungal infections, leading to decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Tephrosia purpurea is toxic to cats, with the seeds and roots containing rotenone that inhibits cellular respiration, potentially causing severe systemic effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea weakness tremors difficulty breathing seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary care without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

The seeds and roots of Tephrosia purpurea are toxic to dogs due to the presence of rotenone, which disrupts cellular respiration and can lead to severe neurological and gastrointestinal distress.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors difficulty breathing seizures
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Tephrosia purpurea contains rotenone and other toxic compounds that inhibit cellular respiration, leading to severe physiological effects upon ingestion. The toxins interfere with the electron transport chain in mitochondria, causing energy depletion in cells.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea respiratory distress paralysis
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any part of the plant. Keep away from children and pets. Seek immediate medical attention if poisoning is suspected.
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 Tephrosia purpurea safe for pets?

A: No, it is toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: What are the uses of Tephrosia purpurea?

A: It is used in traditional medicine and as a source of natural dyes.

Q: How does Tephrosia purpurea grow?

A: It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, tolerating drought conditions.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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