Thermopsis villosa

Also Known As

Baptisia villosa
Sophora villosa
Thermopsis caroliniana
Aaron's Rod
Blue Ridge Buckbean
Carolina Bushpea
Carolina Lupine

Plant type

perennial

size

H: 3'-5'
W: 2'-3'

planting zones

3b-10a

More Options

Thermopsis villosa plant details

Thermopsis villosa is a broadleaf deciduous perennial with green foliage. In spring and summer yellow flowers emerge. Grows well with sun - mostly shade and even moisture - regular water. Adapts to various soil conditions. Does well in acidic, gritty, lean, rich and well-drained soil.

CHARACTERISTICS OF Thermopsis villosa

Plant type: perennial
Plant family: fabaceae
Foliage: deciduous green
Mature size: 2 FT - 3 FT - wide, 3 FT - 5 FT - tall
Flowers: yellow blooms in spring and summer
Uses: border plant, cutting garden, naturalizing

GROWING CONDITIONS for Thermopsis villosa

USDA Zones: 3b - 10a
Sun exposure: sun - mostly shade
Watering frequency: even moisture - regular

Soil needs: acidic, gritty, lean, rich and well-drained

Nursery contributed plant descriptions

Thse lupin-like yellow flowers look sensational with a dark green backdrop (i.e. hedge). Forms a nice mound of glaucous foliage and provides a good strong form for the middle or back of the border.

By: Phoenix Perennials and Specialty Plants Ltd.

These cheerful, low maintenance perennials from the mountains of N. Carolina and Georgia have attractive silvery-blue foliage all season and 3' stalks of bright yellow pea-like flowers in early summer. S/M-D/GDr

By: Forestfarm

Dense spikes of sulphur yellow resembling Baptisia or Lupinus in June. Clean, compound foliage is attractive late into the season. Very durable and long lived once established. Beautiful cut flower. 3-4'

By: Avant Gardens

A western US native that appeals to my penchant for the Pea family. This is not unlike a stoloniferous yellow Lupine making a small dome shaped grove of stems each bearing a terminal raceme of yellow Lupine flowers. Does fine in poor soil as long as it drains well. Takes some dry too.