1. Deep-rooted herbaceous perennial legume

2. Grows to height of 2-3 feet

3. Leaves are elliptical in shape and crowd the thin, erect stems

4. Flowers are blue to violet and occur in clusters the ends of the branches (stems)

1. Unknown toxin that reacts with sunlight to give rise to photosensitivity (primary photosensitivity)

1. Photosensitive pigments react with sunlight and penetrate unpigmented areas of the skin

2. Skin becomes reddened and edematous, may weep or ooze fluid from surface

3. Affected areas become itchy (pruritis) and can become infected by bacteria or fungi

4. Animals may become photophobic (avoid sunlight)

1. Symptomatic treatment

2. Treat affected areas of the skin with antibiotics, antihistamines, steroids, and protective ointments