Status:
valid
Authors:
R.Wilczek
Source:
ildis
Year:
1953
Citation Micro:
Bull. Jard. Bot. État Bruxelles23: 213 (1953)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000210787
Common Names
- Crotalaria Micheliana
- Micheliana Crotalaria
- Micheliana Rattlepod
Description
Crotalaria micheliana (also called Michel's Rattlebox, among many other common names) is an annual herb that grows up to 1 m tall. It is native to the tropical regions of Africa, and is found in dry woodlands and savannas. It has yellow flowers and lanceolate leaves.
Uses & Benefits
Crotalaria micheliana is used as a cover crop to reduce soil erosion and improve soil fertility. It is also used as a green manure crop and as an ornamental plant in gardens.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flowers of Crotalaria micheliana are yellow and tubular, with five petals. The seeds are black and flat, with a smooth surface. The seedlings are slender and have long, thin stems.
Cultivation and Propagation
Crotalaria micheliana is a perennial, herbaceous plant that grows in full sun to partial shade. It can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in spring or summer in a well-drained soil. Cuttings should be taken from the tips of the stems and planted in a well-drained soil. The plant can be grown in containers or in the ground.
Where to Find Crotalaria micheliana
Crotalaria micheliana is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia. It is also found in parts of Europe, North America, and South America.
Crotalaria micheliana FAQ
What is the natural habitat of Crotalaria micheliana?
Crotalaria micheliana is native to tropical Africa.
What is the growth habit of Crotalaria micheliana?
Crotalaria micheliana is an annual herb with a prostrate or ascending growth habit.
What is the flowering period of Crotalaria micheliana?
Crotalaria micheliana flowers from May to August.
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