Family: Fabaceae
High Risk Traits:
- Grows in regions with subtropical climates, but does best in temperate regions
- Naturalized in the southeastern United States
- A disturbance-adapted, weedy plant that may impact other agricultural crops or the natural environment, although specifics impacts have not been documented
- Moldy hay may be toxic to grazing animals
- Tolerates many soil types
- Reproduces by seeds
- Self-fertile
- An annual, reaching maturity in <1 year
- Seeds dispersed in cattle and horse feces, along trails and roads, possibly water, and through intentional cultivation
- Seeds may persist in the soil for two years or longer
Low Risk Traits:
- Despite reports of naturalization and weediness, specific negative impacts have not been documented
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
- Provides fodder for livestock
- Thrives in sunny, high light environments (dense shade may inhibit spread)
- Not reported to spread vegetatively
- Post-emergent herbicides may provide effective control if needed