Rhynchosia tomentosa

Rhynchosia tomentosa, commonly known as the twining snoutbean is a species of plant in the legume family. It is native to the Southeastern United States, where it is primarily found in dry, open woodlands and sandhills.

Description

R. tomentosa is a perennial that produces yellow flowers in the summer. It is an erect herb that may reach a height between 3 and 9 meters. Leaves are 2 to 7 centimeters in length and are oblong to elliptic in shape.

Distribution and habitat

This species has been found at elevations up to 240 meters above sea level. within the Coastal Plain region of the United States.
R. tomentosa occurs in habitat types such as longleaf pine sandhills, old growth longleaf pine stands, hammocks, and glades, among other environments. It has also been documented as occurring in previously disturbed habitats, such as along roadsides or within recently-burned pinewoods.
This species acts as an indicator species in longleaf woodland communities.