Crotalaria retusa, commonly known as Rattlebox, is a perennial herb native to tropical and subtropical regions. This leguminous plant is recognized for its striking bright yellow flowers, which bloom in clusters and attract various pollinators. The plant’s distinctive seed pods rattle when mature, hence the common name. The foliage consists of trifoliate leaves that are green and slightly hairy.

Habitat

Rattlebox thrives in well-drained soils and is commonly found in open areas, grasslands, and disturbed sites. It prefers sunny conditions and is drought-tolerant once established.

Planting and Care

• Light: Full sun.
• Soil: Well-drained soil, tolerates poor soil conditions.
• Watering: Water during dry spells, but the plant is drought-resistant.
• Maintenance: Minimal maintenance; can be pruned to manage growth.

Additional Information

• The plant is often used for soil improvement due to its ability to fix nitrogen.
• While some parts of the plant may be toxic if ingested, it has traditional uses in herbal medicine.
• Propagation can be done via seeds, which germinate readily.

Please note: Crotalaria retusamay become invasive in some regions, so it?s important to monitor its growth.