Status:
valid
Authors:
Taub.
Source:
ildis
Year:
1895
Citation Micro:
H.G.A.Engler (ed.), Pflanzenw. Ost-Afrikas, C: 205 (1895)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000210113
Common Names
- Crotalaria massaiensis
- Massaiensis Rattlebox
- Massaiensis Crotalaria
Synonyms
- Crotalaria minutiflora Baker f. [valid]
- Crotalaria senegalensis gracilis Chiov. [valid]
Description
Crotalaria massaiensis (also called Massai rattlebox, among many other common names) is an annual herb that can grow up to 1 m tall. It is native to tropical Africa and is found in grasslands, open woodlands, and disturbed areas. It has yellow flowers and grey-green leaves.
Uses & Benefits
Crotalaria massaiensis is used as a green manure crop, as a soil stabilizer, and as a source of fodder for livestock.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Crotalaria massaiensis has yellow flowers with a tubular shape and a long spur. Its seeds are small, round, and black. The seedlings are hairy and have oval-shaped leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Crotalaria massaiensis is a perennial herb native to the western United States. It prefers full sun and well-drained soils. Propagation is best done by seed or division in early spring. The seeds should be sown in a warm, sunny location and kept moist until germination. Division can be done by carefully digging up the plant and dividing the roots into several sections. Replant the divisions in a sunny location and keep them well watered.
Where to Find Crotalaria massaiensis
Crotalaria massaiensis is native to the western United States and can be found in dry, rocky soils in the western states of California, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona.
Crotalaria massaiensis FAQ
What is the scientific name of Crotalaria massaiensis?
Crotalaria massaiensis
What are the common names of Crotalaria massaiensis?
Massai rattlepod, Massai rattlebox, Massai rattlebox-pea
What is the natural habitat of Crotalaria massaiensis?
It is found in dry open woodland, bushland, and grassland
Species in the Crotalaria genus
Crotalaria brevipedunculata,
Crotalaria mexicana,
Crotalaria nayaritensis,
Crotalaria rzedowskii,
Crotalaria filifolia,
Crotalaria grandiflora,
Crotalaria martiana,
Crotalaria polyphylla,
Crotalaria purdieana,
Crotalaria quercetorum,
Crotalaria quinquefolia,
Crotalaria berteroana,
Crotalaria brachycarpa,
Crotalaria breviflora,
Crotalaria bupleurifolia,
Crotalaria flavicoma,
Crotalaria hilariana,
Crotalaria holosericea,
Crotalaria longirostrata,
Crotalaria mollicula,
Crotalaria nana,
Crotalaria nitens,
Crotalaria pilosa,
Crotalaria pumila,
Crotalaria purshii,
Crotalaria rufipila,
Crotalaria sagittalis,
Crotalaria tetragona,
Crotalaria unifoliolata,
Crotalaria velutina,
Crotalaria vespertilio,
Crotalaria bahiaensis,
Crotalaria boliviensis,
Crotalaria goiasensis,
Crotalaria harleyi,
Crotalaria irwinii,
Crotalaria semperflorens,
Crotalaria schiedeana,
Crotalaria grandiflora,
Crotalaria lotifolia,
Crotalaria gloriae,
Crotalaria balansae,
Crotalaria maypurensis,
Crotalaria rotundifolia,
Crotalaria angulata,
Crotalaria allophylla,
Crotalaria intricata,
Crotalaria warfae,
Crotalaria vitellina,
Crotalaria cajanifolia,
Species in the Fabaceae family