Showy partridge pea may reach 6 feet in height at maturity, but typically grows to only 2 to 3 feet. One to four brilliant yellow flowers are generally produced along the stem and yield long, narrow, seeded pods. Petals of showy partridge pea may extend 1 inch in length. Pods ripen by late October, burst open, and scatter three to twelve small, black, flattened seeds. The seeds are extremely hard, waterproof, and resistant to weathering.
Production is poor on both extremely acidic and highly alkaline sites.
Although plants receiving full sunlight prosper, partridge pea usually requires partial shade for optimum production. Highest seed production generally occurs where plants are under about 30 percent shade. Seed yields drop dramatically as shade exceeds 50 to 60 percent. Establishment Plot Size And Location. Establish partridge pea stands in areas where coverage of other native legumes is poor.