Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Crotalaria |
Crotalaria Macrocalyx is a flowering plant belonging to the Leguminosae family. It is commonly known as the Large Calyx Rattlepod and is native to the African continent. This plant is widely cultivated as a forage crop and is also used in traditional medicine.
Appearance
Crotalaria Macrocalyx can grow up to 2 meters in height and has a woody stem with branches. The leaves are green, elongated, and alternate on the stem. The flowers are yellow and grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a pod that contains several seeds. The distinguishing feature of this plant is its large calyx, which is about twice the length of the corolla.
Care Guide
Crotalaria Macrocalyx is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Ensure that the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Crotalaria Macrocalyx prefers well-drained, sandy soil. It can tolerate slightly acidic to mildly alkaline soil.
- Sunlight: This plant requires full sunlight to thrive. Ensure that it is planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Hardiness Zones: Crotalaria Macrocalyx can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crotalaria Macrocalyx is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Mites: Mites can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Use neem oil to control mites.
- Fungal Diseases: Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot can affect Crotalaria Macrocalyx. Ensure that the plant is not overwatered and apply a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Crotalaria Macrocalyx is native to the African continent and can be found in various habitats such as grasslands, woodlands, and savannas. It is widely cultivated as a forage crop and can also be found in home gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Crotalaria Macrocalyx poisonous?
A: Yes, this plant is toxic to livestock and can cause liver damage if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Can Crotalaria Macrocalyx be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its height and width.
Q: How often should Crotalaria Macrocalyx be pruned?
A: Prune the plant once a year in early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and promote new growth.
Q: Can Crotalaria Macrocalyx be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the early spring. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-drained soil.
Related Plants
- Crotalaria Burchellii
- Crotalaria Capensis
- Crotalaria Cuneifolia
- Crotalaria Juncea
- Crotalaria Laburnifolia
References
- “Crotalaria Macrocalyx – Large Calyx Rattlepod.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 6 October 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:497820-1
- “Crotalaria Macrocalyx.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 6 October 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281218&isprofile=0
- “Crotalaria Macrocalyx.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed 6 October 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/crotalaria-macrocalyx
