Ecology/Distribution

Hoffmannseggia tenella is a three to six inch tall perennial that blooms between early March and June and sporadically afterwards (depending on rainfall). The Slender Rush-Pea has ascending or reclining stems with bipinnately compound leaves and three to seven millimeter leaflets. Hoffmannseggia tenella is characterized by small orange flowers approximately 1/4 inch long, and fruits as a two to four seeded legume. Hoffmannseggia tenella, known only to Texas, can be found in three to four populations in Nueces and Kleberg counties. Its habitat encompasses the clayey soil of backland prairies and creek beds. The conversion of Texas prairie and coastal habitats to agricultural and urban areas is thought to be behind the decline of this species. Slender Rush-Pea may also be susceptible to competition from non-native grasses such as King Ranch Bluestem (Bothriochloa ischaemum) and Kleberg Bluestem (Dichanthium annulatum). Hoffmannseggia tenella is known to occur in association with South Texas Ambrosia (Ambrosia cheiranthifolia), another endangered Texas species.

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