Curly Caterpillar Pea
scorpiurus vermiculatus
Also known as: ["Scorpion's Tail","Serpent's Tail"]
Overview
A low-growing annual legume with distinctive, scorpion-tail shaped pods.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Scorpiurus |
| Botanical Name: | Scorpiurus vermiculatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months during growing season; light pruning as needed year-round.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to direct morning sun in cooler months if needed.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; provide shade during intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near east-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid overwatering; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme heat or cold.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use a thermometer to monitor ambient temperature; adjust watering in extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; trim leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/diseased parts first; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, allowing water to penetrate the root zone; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or yellowing in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become stunted due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure consistent watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring–summer); cease in fall–winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume the seeds or pods of Scorpiurus vermiculatus. The saponins present can cause digestive upset, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe seeds and pods of Scorpiurus vermiculatus may cause mild gastrointestinal distress in dogs due to the presence of saponins. The effects are typically not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicScorpiurus vermiculatus contains small amounts of saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to digestive discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Scorpiurus vermiculatus edible?
A: The plant is not commonly consumed, and its edibility is not well-documented.
Q: How do I propagate Scorpiurus vermiculatus?
A: Propagate by sowing seeds directly into well-drained soil after the last frost.
Q: Does Scorpiurus vermiculatus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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