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Description
Crotalaria Grahamiana, also known as Graham’s Rattlebox, is a flowering plant native to southern Mexico, Central America, and northern South America. It belongs to the Fabaceae family, which is one of the largest plant families in the world. This plant is an annual or short-lived perennial that grows up to 2 meters tall. It is characterized by its yellow flowers and inflated seed pods that make a rattling sound when shaken.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Crotalaria |
Appearance
Crotalaria Grahamiana has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 2 meters tall. Its leaves are green and hairy, with a length of up to 15 centimeters. The flowers are bright yellow and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The seed pods are inflated and oblong, up to 3.5 centimeters long, and make a rattling sound when shaken. The seeds are small, brown, and kidney-shaped.
Care Guide
Crotalaria Grahamiana is easy to care for and can be grown in a wide range of conditions. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, but do not overwater it. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Crotalaria Grahamiana prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 5.5 to 7.5 is ideal.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sunlight, but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Crotalaria Grahamiana can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crotalaria Grahamiana is relatively pest and disease-free. However, here are some common issues:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can cause damage to the leaves and flowers. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and a fine webbing on the plant. Use a miticide to control them.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. Ensure proper soil drainage and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Crotalaria Grahamiana is native to southern Mexico, Central America, and northern South America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including open fields, disturbed areas, and along roadsides. It can also be found in wetlands and marshes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Crotalaria Grahamiana poisonous?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested.
Q: Can I grow Crotalaria Grahamiana indoors?
A: No, this plant requires full sunlight and is not suitable for growing indoors.
Q: Can I propagate Crotalaria Grahamiana by cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate this plant by taking stem cuttings in the spring or summer.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Crotalaria Grahamiana?
A: Fertilize your plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Crotalaria Juncea
- Crotalaria Retusa
- Crotalaria Cunninghamii
References
- “Crotalaria grahamiana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 June 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantdetails.aspx?kempercode=b447>
- “Crotalaria grahamiana (Graham’s rattlebox).” CABI. Accessed 20 June 2021. <https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/15699>
- “Crotalaria grahamiana.” Plantwise Knowledge Bank. Accessed 20 June 2021. <https://www.plantwise.org/knowledgebank/datasheet/15699>
