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Description
Crotalaria Pallida, commonly known as Pale Rattlebox, is a plant species of the legume family Fabaceae. It is native to the southeastern United States and can be found growing in open fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas. This herbaceous plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a slender stem with leaves that are alternate, simple, and oblong in shape. The flowers of Crotalaria Pallida are yellow with a touch of green and bloom from May to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Crotalaria |
Appearance
Crotalaria Pallida has an upright growth habit and can reach up to 3 feet tall. Its stem is slender and can be green, brown, or purple in color. The leaves are alternate and oblong in shape, measuring up to 4 inches long and 1 inch wide. The flowers of Crotalaria Pallida are yellow with a touch of green and bloom from May to September, forming a raceme or cluster at the end of the stem. The plant produces a small pod-like fruit that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Water
Crotalaria Pallida prefers well-draining soil and needs moderate watering. It should be watered deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.
Fertilization
Crotalaria Pallida does not need much fertilization. It can benefit from a balanced fertilizer in the spring or early summer.
Soil
Crotalaria Pallida prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
Sunlight
Crotalaria Pallida prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Crotalaria Pallida is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crotalaria Pallida is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It can also attract aphids and spider mites.
Habitat
Crotalaria Pallida is native to the southeastern United States and can be found growing in open fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Crotalaria Pallida grow in partial shade?
A: Yes, Crotalaria Pallida can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Does Crotalaria Pallida attract pests?
A: Crotalaria Pallida is relatively pest-free, but it can attract aphids and spider mites.
Q: How often should I water Crotalaria Pallida?
A: Crotalaria Pallida should be watered deeply once a week, especially during dry spells.
Q: Is Crotalaria Pallida hardy?
A: Yes, Crotalaria Pallida is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Related Plants
- Crotalaria juncea
- Crotalaria lanceolata
- Crotalaria rotundifolia
- Crotalaria spectabilis
References
- https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/crotalaria-pallida/
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CRPA2
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/rattlebox-plant/growing-crotalaria-plants.htm
