Partridge Pea (Chamaecrista fasciculata)

Difficulty: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
(Easy — prolific seed producer, though pods can dehisce suddenly if not timed right)

Seed Collection Time:

Late summer to early fall — typically August through October

Signs Seeds are Ready;

• Slender pods develop after flowering and turn brown or black when mature

• Pods are dry and brittle, often curled — a sign they’re ready to split

• Mature pods burst open suddenly (explosive dehiscence), scattering seeds

• Seeds inside are smooth, hard, and dark brown to black

Tip: Check early and often — mature pods can split open quickly after drying.

Seed Collection Steps:

1. Harvest dry pods before they pop open — preferably early morning or after light rain

2. Snip or strip pods into paper bags or buckets with lids

3. Let dry fully in a well-ventilated spot for 2–4 days

4. Pods will often pop open on their own; otherwise, crush gently by hand

5. Clean seeds by screening or winnowing

Note: Line your collection bag with paper towels to muffle seed-bursting sounds (and reduce seed loss).