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Description
Crotalaria Pallida Var. Obovata, commonly known as the pale rattlebox, is a species of flowering plant in the legume family Fabaceae. It is native to tropical regions of Africa and Asia and is often cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its showy yellow flowers.This plant is an annual or short-lived perennial that can grow up to 1 meter tall. It has a slender stem that is covered in fine hairs and narrow leaves that are alternately arranged along the stem. The flowers are bright yellow and grow in clusters at the end of the stem. The fruit is a long, narrow pod that contains small, black seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Crotalaria |
| Species | Crotalaria pallida |
| Variety | Obovata |
Appearance
Crotalaria Pallida Var. Obovata is a slender plant with narrow leaves and yellow flowers. The stem is covered in fine hairs, and the leaves are alternately arranged along the stem. The flowers are bright yellow and grow in clusters at the end of the stem. The fruit is a long, narrow pod that contains small, black seeds.
Care Guide
Crotalaria Pallida Var. Obovata is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips for keeping it healthy:- Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil, so be sure not to overwater it. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A mix of perlite, sand, and potting soil will work well.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crotalaria Pallida Var. Obovata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Some common pests that may affect this plant include spider mites and aphids. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Crotalaria Pallida Var. Obovata is native to tropical regions of Africa and Asia. It can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including open areas, fields, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Crotalaria Pallida Var. Obovata toxic to humans?
A: Yes, this plant is toxic and should not be ingested. It contains alkaloids that can cause liver damage.
Q: Can Crotalaria Pallida Var. Obovata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should Crotalaria Pallida Var. Obovata be fertilized?
A: This plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can Crotalaria Pallida Var. Obovata be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
– Crotalaria Juncea- Crotalaria Retusa- Crotalaria Spectabilis- Crotalaria Sphaerocarpa
References
– “Crotalaria pallida.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a734.- “Crotalaria pallida var. obovata.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60449709-2.
