Description

• Galactia striata, commonly known as Florida hoarypea or striate milkpea, is a perennial herbaceous vine in the legume family (Fabaceae). It has slender, twining or trailing stems and compound leaves composed of three oval to oblong leaflets. Its small, pea-shaped flowers are usually pinkish-purple to reddish-purple and grow in clusters from the leaf axils. The flowers develop into narrow, elongated pods containing several seeds. Like other legumes, it can form associations with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the soil.

Range

• Galactia striata is native to tropical and subtropical America, including Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and parts of South America. It occurs widely in warm regions and may also be cultivated or naturalized beyond its native range. It is native to Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, and the surrounding area.

Habitat

• Florida hoarypea grows in open grasslands, tropical scrub, woodland edges, roadsides, pastures, and disturbed areas. Its stems trail along the ground or climb over grasses and shrubs. It favours warm conditions and can tolerate seasonal dry periods, often growing more vigorously during the rainy season.