West Indian Rattlebox

Crotalaria trichotoma

Native to:
Angola, Mozambique, Tanzania

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Crotalaria
Species:
Crotalaria trichotoma
USDA Symbol:
CRTR12

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Annual
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb , Subshrub
Height:
150 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
jul,aug,sep,oct
Bloom Colors:
yellow

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
prefers open, sunny habitats

Propagation & Germination

Scarification:
Seed coat scarification required before sowing
Germination Time:
7–21 days
Notes:
Seeds benefit from scarification (nicking or hot water treatment) to break hard seed coat.