Status:
valid
Authors:
Polhill
Source:
ildis
Year:
1968
Citation Micro:
Kew Bull.22: 283 (1968)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000210109
Common Names
- Crotalaria patula
- Patula Rattlebox
- Patula Crotalaria
Description
Crotalaria patula (also called spreading 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 patula is used as a green manure crop, as a soil stabilizer, and as a source of fodder for livestock.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Crotalaria patula 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 patula 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 patula
Crotalaria patula 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 patula FAQ
What is the scientific name of Crotalaria patula?
Crotalaria patula
What is the common name of Crotalaria patula?
Spreading Crotalaria
What is the natural habitat of Crotalaria patula?
Dry forests and grasslands
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