Status:
valid
Authors:
Polhill
Source:
ildis
Year:
1981
Citation Micro:
Crotalaria Africa & Madagascar: 133 (1981)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000208089
Common Names
- Polychroma Rattlebox
- Polychroma Crotalaria
- Crotalaria Polychroma
Synonyms
- Crotalaria versicolor Baker [illegitimate]
Description
Crotalaria polychroma (also called Polychrome Rattlepod, among many other common names) is an annual herbaceous plant of the Fabaceae family. It is native to India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka and typically grows in grassy meadows, rocky slopes, and other open habitats. It has a short stem and a lanceolate leaf with a pointed tip.
Uses & Benefits
Crotalaria polychroma is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat fever, reduce inflammation, and improve digestion. It is also used as a soil conditioner and as a natural dye for fabrics.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Crotalaria polychroma has yellow-green flowers with a white center, and its seeds are small and black. The seedlings are thin and have a light green color.
Cultivation and Propagation
Crotalaria polychroma is an annual plant that is native to the western United States. It can be propagated by seed. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought tolerant and can tolerate some frost. It is best grown in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9.
Where to Find Crotalaria polychroma
Crotalaria polychroma can be found in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including India, Africa, and South America.
Crotalaria polychroma FAQ
What is the scientific name of Crotalaria polychroma?
Crotalaria polychroma
What is the common name of Crotalaria polychroma?
Many-colored Rattlebox
Where is Crotalaria polychroma found?
Crotalaria polychroma is found in the southeastern United States
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