Lotus rigidus
Desert Rock Pea, Deer Vetch
Description
Rock pea is a durable perennial that grows to about 1 1/2' tall by 2' wide. Yellow and orange pea-shaped flowers appear from February through May. This plant can tolerate full sun, reflected heat, drought, and poor soils as long as they are well drained. Rock pea is native to Arizona, southern Utah and Nevada, California, and into northwestern Mexico. Numerous stems branch from a woody base. It is drought deciduous and can get leggy with too much water. Good to cut to ground to rejuvenate.
Plant Type
Shrub
Height Range
1-3'
Flower Color
Orange, Yellow
Flower Season
Winter, Spring
Leaf Color
Green, Dark Green
Bark Color
Brown
Fruit Color
Red
Fruit Season
Spring
Sun
Full
Water
Very Low, Low, Extra in Summer
Growth Rate
Slow
Soil Type
Sandy, Rocky
Soil Condition
Average, Poor, Well-drained
Soil pH
Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
Ranch, Spanish
Accenting Features
Showy Flowers, Unusual Foliage
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring
Location Uses
Entry, Perennial Border, Patio, Walkways, With Rocks
Special Uses
Container, Filler, Mass Planting, Naturalizing, Small Spaces
Attracts Wildlife
n/a
Water Saving Tip:
Apply a 2" layer of mulch around plants to reduce moisture loss.
Choose organic mulches, such as shredded bark, compost, or aged sawdust.
Inorganic mulches such as gravel are also acceptable.