Status:
valid
Authors:
Polhill
Source:
ildis
Year:
1982
Citation Micro:
Crotalaria Africa & Madagascar: 333 (1982)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000210802
Common Names
- Crotalaria Subtilis
- Subtilis Crotalaria
- Subtle Rattlepod
Synonyms
- Crotalaria axillifloroides gracilis R.Wilczek [unknown]
Description
Crotalaria subtilis (also called Subtilis Crotalaria, among many other common names) is a shrub or small tree, up to 4 m tall, native to tropical Africa. It grows in open woodlands, savannas, and grasslands, and is often found in disturbed areas.
Uses & Benefits
Crotalaria subtilis 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 subtilis 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 subtilis 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 subtilis
Crotalaria subtilis 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 subtilis FAQ
What is the scientific name of Crotalaria subtilis?
Crotalaria subtilis
What is the common name of Crotalaria subtilis?
Subtilis Crotalaria
What is the habitat of Crotalaria subtilis?
It is found in dry and moist forests, woodlands, 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