Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Fabaceae

Genus:

Crotalaria

Species:

Crotalaria saltiana

USDA Symbol:

CRSA8

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Shrub

Height:

200 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

High

Bloom Months:

jan,feb,mar,apr,may,jun,jul,aug,sep,oct,nov,dec

Bloom Colors:

yellow

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)

Butterflies & Moths:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Caterpillars:

★☆☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

bees, butterflies

Deer Resistant:

Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

dry to moderate

Notes:

native to arid and semi-arid regions

Propagation & Germination

Scarification:

Seed coat scarification required before sowing

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Seeds require scarification (mechanical or hot water treatment) to break physical dormancy; germination occurs within 2-4 weeks after treatment.