Also known as Carolina-Lupin
Aaron's rod (Thermopsis villosa) is a perennial herb with erect spikes of bright yellow, pea-like flowers, ideal for adding vibrant color to cottage gardens.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Thrives in full sun for best flowering, but can tolerate partial shade. More shade may result in fewer blooms.
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers consistently moist soil but tolerates some drought once established. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Hardy
0% intensity
Tolerant of a wide range of temperatures. Hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Low
25% intensity
Generally low needs. A light feeding in spring is sufficient if soil is poor.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water consistently once established, especially during dry spells. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings.
Reduce watering in the fall as the plant begins to go dormant, ensuring the soil is not waterlogged over winter.
Deadhead spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming and maintain a tidy appearance. After flowering or in late fall, you can cut back the foliage to the ground to promote healthy new growth in the following spring.
Remove any dead or damaged stems anytime.
Propagate by seed sown in autumn or early spring, or by dividing established clumps in early spring. Seeds may benefit from a period of cold stratification.
Division is the most straightforward method for gardeners to increase plant numbers.
Thermopsis villosa is a perennial that prefers to be left undisturbed once established. If repotting is necessary due to overcrowding or poor vigor, do so in early spring before new growth begins.
Ensure the new location provides adequate space.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Aaron's Rod (Thermopsis villosa)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Thermopsis |
| Species | Thermopsis villosa |
Similar in genus Thermopsis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
