Purple Tephrosia

Tephrosia purpurea, Fabaceae

Zones

9–12

Layer

Shrub

Lifespan

Perennial

Growth

Fast

Guild Roles

Nitrogen FixerDynamic AccumulatorPest ConfuserPollinator AttractorMulch Maker

Growing Conditions

Sun

Full Sun (preferred)Partial Shade (tolerated)

Water

Low (established)Moderate (seedling)

Soil pH

6 – 8.5

Tolerances

Drought

Frost

Heat

Pest Resistance

Disease Resist.

Companion Plants

Mahua TreeMadhuca longifolia

Nitrogen FixationPest Deterrent

Bitter KolaGarcinia kola

Nitrogen Fixation

Three-leaved CaperCrateva adansonii

Pollinator SharingNitrogen Fixation

African BlackwoodDalbergia melanoxylon

Nitrogen Fixation

Antagonistic Plants

Anil IndigoIndigofera suffruticosa

Both leguminous shrubs may compete for rhizobial symbionts and produce secondary metabolites that inhibit nearby plants

Illinois BundleflowerDesmanthus illinoensis

Competition between leguminous species for rhizobial partners and potential chemical interference

Uses

Functions

Nitrogen FixationSoil ImprovementNatural PesticideGreen ManureErosion Control

Edible Parts

LeavesYoung Shoots

Medicinal Uses

Digestive AidAnti-InflammatoryBlood PurifierSkin Conditions

Common Questions

What zones does Purple Tephrosia grow in?

Purple Tephrosia grows in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 12.

Is Purple Tephrosia a nitrogen fixer?

Yes, Purple Tephrosia is a nitrogen fixer and can help provide nitrogen to neighboring plants in a guild or polyculture.

What are good companion plants for Purple Tephrosia?

Good companions for Purple Tephrosia include Mahua Tree, Bitter Kola, Three-leaved Caper, African Blackwood.

Design guilds with Purple Tephrosia and see companion relationships visually.

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