Scarlet-pea (Indigofera miniata, Nov. Rar. Pl. Descr. Dec.: 98 (1798))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: Ortega

Bibliography: Nov. Rar. Pl. Descr. Dec.: 98 (1798)

Year: 1798

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Indigofera

Vegetable: False

Observations: C. & S. U.S.A. to Guatemala, Cuba

Description

The Scarlet-pea, scientifically known as Indigofera miniata, is a remarkable plant species noted for its vibrant, eye-catching blossoms. First described in 1798 by the botanist Ortega in the publication “Novarum Rariorum Plantarum Descriptiones Decas,” this plant holds a notable place within the botanical world.

The Scarlet-pea is a member of the Fabaceae family, which is renowned for its importance in agriculture and horticulture due to its nitrogen-fixing capabilities and diverse range of species. The plant is indigenous to a sizeable geographical range, spanning the central and southern regions of the United States, extending through to Guatemala and including Cuba as well. This extensive distribution indicates its adaptability to various climates and soil conditions within these areas.

The plant’s appeal lies not only in its ecological versatility but also in its distinctive physical characteristics. The flowers of the Scarlet-pea are particularly striking, showcasing a vivid red hue that stands out prominently against the green foliage. This makes it a visually appealing addition to gardens and natural landscapes.

In its natural habitat, Indigofera miniata plays a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems. As part of the legume family, it contributes to soil health by enriching it with essential nutrients, particularly nitrogen, through a natural process known as nitrogen fixation. This benefits surrounding plants and helps maintain the balance of the ecosystem.

Overall, the Scarlet-pea (Indigofera miniata) is a plant of significant botanical interest, celebrated both for its aesthetic beauty and its ecological contributions. Its widespread presence from the United States to Guatemala and Cuba underscores its resilience and ecological importance within these regions.

Common Names

Eng: coastal indigo, scarlet-pea, coast indigo
En: Scarlet-pea, Coastal indigo, WESTERN INDIGO, Coast Indigo

Synonyms

• Indigofera texana (Buckley)
• Anil leptosepala ((Nutt.) Kuntze)
• Indigofera mexicana (Benth.)
• Anil ornithopodioides (Kuntze)
• Indigofera cubensis (Urb.)
• Indigofera leptosepala var. brevipes (S.Watson)
• Indigofera leptosepala var. angustata (S.Watson)
• Indigofera miniata var. texana ((Buckley) B.L.Turner)
• Indigofera miniata var. leptosepala ((Nutt.) B.L.Turner)
• Indigofera sphenoides (Rydb.)
• Anil acutifolia ((Schltdl.) Kuntze)
• Indigofera hartwegii (Rydb.)
• Indigofera miniata var. florida (Isely)
• Indigofera tinctaria (Hook.)
• Indigofera brevipes ((S.Watson) Rydb.)

Distribution

• Alabama (native)
• Cuba (native)
• Florida (native)
• Guatemala (native)
• Kansas (native)
• Mexico Central (native)
• Mexico Gulf (native)
• Mexico Northeast (native)
• Mexico Northwest (native)
• Mexico Southeast (native)
• Mexico Southwest (native)
• Oklahoma (native)
• Texas (native)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Mar 24, 2022 by Naushad BM (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 31, 2019 by Rajendra Rajendra Choure (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 29, 2018 by Siddharth (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 3, 2015 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Nov 14, 2013 by EOL − Alexis López Hernández (cc-by-nc)

Flower

Taken Apr 13, 2013 by EOL − Mikael Behrens (cc-by-nc)

Taken Dec 6, 2015 by EOL − Bob O’Kennon (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 14, 2013 by EOL − Alexis López Hernández (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 14, 2013 by EOL − Alexis López Hernández (cc-by-nc)

Taken Nov 14, 2013 by EOL − Alexis López Hernández (cc-by-nc)

Habit

Taken Mar 16, 2014 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 23, 2013 by EOL − Mikael Behrens (cc-by-nc)

Taken Sep 21, 2013 by EOL − Oscar J Almeda-Ayala (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 6, 2013 by EOL − Oscar J Almeda-Ayala (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 6, 2013 by EOL − Oscar J Almeda-Ayala (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Dec 31, 2019 by Rajendra Rajendra Choure (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 3, 2015 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Nov 3, 2015 by EOL − Wynn Anderson (cc-by-nc-sa)

Bark

Taken Jul 9, 2020 by plantdweeb (cc-by-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2972490)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:499672-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Indigofera miniata Ortega)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth