North Carolina Wildflowers

Fabaceae

Uncommon in the NC coastal plain in open sandy woodlands.

same as above, showing fruits.

This species and other relatives are the caterpillar host plant for several species of sulphurs, including Cloudless Sulphur, Little Yellow, and Sleepy Orange.

Showy yellow flowers blooming from spring to fall, this plant is found in dry woods & clearings statewide in NC.

Wild Indigos are caterpillar host plants for a few butterflies including Frosted Elfin and Wild Indigo Duskywing.

Also known as Oak Ridge Lupine, this plant is found in open woods in the sandhills and southeast coastal plain in NC.

Skyblue Lupine is another caterpillar host plant for Frosted Elfins.

Uncommon in NC, this elegant lupine is found in sandy localities in southeastern NC.

This uncommon native vine, found in the NC coastal plain, is similar to the widespread exotic invasive Chinese Wisteria (often planted in formal gardens), but the inflorescence lacks the sweet aroma and is more compressed.

Introduced Lespedezas along roadsides and in power lines can be excellent butterfly attractants.

Common statewide in NC in dry soils