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Description
Campylotropis Hirtella, also known as Hairy Rattlepod, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to China and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has a unique appearance, with purple flowers and hairy seed pods that rattle when shaken.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Campylotropis |
Appearance
The Hairy Rattlepod has a bushy appearance, with branches that grow in a zigzag pattern. Its leaves are oval-shaped and have a hairy texture, with a length of 3 to 5 cm. The flowers of this plant bloom in early summer and are purple in color. The seed pods are hairy and have a distinct rattle sound when shaken.
Care Guide
To ensure that your Hairy Rattlepod thrives, it is important to provide it with proper care. Here are some tips to follow:
Water: This plant requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. Ensure that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil: The Hairy Rattlepod grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade, depending on the climate.
Hardiness Zones: Hairy Rattlepod is hardy in USDA zones 4-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hairy Rattlepod is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause damage to the leaves. Use an insecticidal soap to control them.
Fungal Diseases: The Hairy Rattlepod is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. Ensure that the plant is properly spaced and has good air circulation to prevent these diseases.
Habitat
The Hairy Rattlepod is native to China and can be found growing in mountainous regions. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. This plant is also commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Hairy Rattlepod a perennial or an annual plant?
A: The Hairy Rattlepod is a perennial plant.
Q: Can this plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Hairy Rattlepod can be grown in containers as long as it has adequate space and drainage.
Q: Does this plant attract bees and other pollinators?
A: Yes, the Hairy Rattlepod is a good source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Q: What is the best time to prune this plant?
A: The best time to prune the Hairy Rattlepod is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the Hairy Rattlepod:
- Campylotropis Macrocarpa
- Campylotropis Polyantha
- Campylotropis Pumila
References
- “Campylotropis hirtella (Lour.) Schindl.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c231.
- “Campylotropis hirtella.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed September 15, 2021. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:494361-1.
- “Campylotropis hirtella – Hairy Rattlepod.” Gardening Know How. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/hairy-rattlepod/hairy-rattlepod-care.htm.
