Contents
Description
Crotalaria Lanceolata, also known as Lanceleaf Rattlebox, is a flowering plant native to North America. It belongs to the Fabaceae family, which is one of the largest plant families. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide with an upright or sprawling growth habit. It has lance-shaped leaves that are around 3 inches long and yellow flowers that bloom from May to October. The flowers are followed by long, thin seed pods that make a rattling sound when shaken, hence the common name “Rattlebox”.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Crotalaria |
Appearance
The Lanceleaf Rattlebox has a distinct appearance with its lance-shaped leaves that are green and hairy. The flowers are yellow and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide and has a branching, upright habit. The long, thin seed pods that follow the flowers make a rattling sound when shaken, hence the common name “Rattlebox”.
Care Guide
Water: The Lanceleaf Rattlebox prefers well-drained soil and regular watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The Lanceleaf Rattlebox prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Lanceleaf Rattlebox is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and leafhoppers. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot if overwatered, so make sure to provide well-drained soil.
Habitat
The Lanceleaf Rattlebox is native to North America and can be found in various habitats such as prairies, meadows, and open woods. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can also tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Lanceleaf Rattlebox toxic to pets?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to pets if ingested.Q: Can the plant tolerate drought?
A: The plant prefers regular watering but can tolerate some drought once established.Q: How often should I fertilize the plant?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.Q: Can the plant grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers with well-drained soil.
Related Plants
- Crotalaria retusa
- Crotalaria sagittalis
- Crotalaria pallida
References
- “Crotalaria lanceolata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j880
- “Crotalaria lanceolata.” USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CRLA2
- “Lanceleaf Rattlebox.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CRLA2
