Blue Rattlesnake

Crotalaria verrucosa

Native to:
Australia, Bangladesh, Bismarck Archipelago, Borneo, Cambodia, China, Hainan, India, Jawa, Laccadive Is., Laos, Lesser Sunda Is., Malaya, Maluku, Myanmar, Navassa Island, Nepal, New Guinea, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Sulawesi, Sumatera, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Crotalaria
Species:
Crotalaria verrucosa
USDA Symbol:
CRVE5

Growth Characteristics

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

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

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:
Prefers open, sunny locations; often found in disturbed areas.

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.