Status:
valid
Authors:
Kunth
Source:
ildis
Year:
1824
Citation Micro:
F.W.H.von Humboldt, A.J.A.Bonpland & C.S.Kunth, Nov. Gen. Sp.6: 399 (1824)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000174075
Common Names
- Crotalaria Nitens
- Silverleaf Rattlebox
- Silverleaf Crotalaria
Synonyms
- Crotalaria nitidula Mart. ex Schrank [unknown]
- Crotalaria nitens nitens [unknown]
- Crotalaria exstipulata Mart. ex Schrank [valid]
- Crotalaria nitens trichina J.F.Macbr. [unknown]
Description
Crotalaria nitens (also called Shining Rattlebox, among many other common names) is a species of flowering plant in the legume family. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of South America, and is found in wetland habitats. It is an annual herb with a slender stem and yellow flowers.
Uses & Benefits
Crotalaria nitens is a fast-growing, annual legume that is used as a cover crop and forage crop. It can be used to improve soil fertility, reduce soil erosion, and suppress weeds. It is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Crotalaria nitens has yellow flowers that are fragrant and have five petals. The seeds are small, round, and black. The seedlings have small, oval-shaped leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Crotalaria nitens is a small shrub native to South America. It can be propagated from seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in spring in a well-draining potting mix. Cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer and rooted in a potting mix. The plant prefers full sun and should be watered regularly.
Where to Find Crotalaria nitens
Crotalaria nitens is native to Central and South America and can be found in dry forests and scrublands.
Crotalaria nitens FAQ
What is the scientific name of Crotalaria nitens?
Crotalaria nitens
What is the common name of Crotalaria nitens?
Shiny crotalaria
What is the natural habitat of Crotalaria nitens?
Dry forests and scrublands
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