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West Indian rattlebox

Scientific Name: Crotalaria trichotoma

Family: Fabaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb, Subshrub

Duration: Annual

Other Names:

       

Crotalaria trichotoma: West Indian Rattlebox

Crotalaria trichotoma, commonly known as West Indian Rattlebox, is a plant with interesting characteristics and a wide distribution.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Crotalaria trichotoma Bojer
  • Family: Fabaceae (also referenced as FABACEAE)
  • Common Names: West Indian Rattlebox, Curara-pea, Cascabel Vivaz, Tcha-tcha Sonnette Cascavelle Trois Feuilles

Note that Crotalaria zanzibarica is also listed as a synonym or related species to West Indian Rattlebox.

Distribution and Habitat

  • The plant is found in the West Indies, southwestern United States, Mexico, Central America, South America, and Eastern peninsular Florida (from the Monroe County Keys north to Brevard County).

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Crotalaria trichotoma is described as a forb/herb or subshrub.
  • It is an annual plant or short-lived perennial herb.
  • It can grow up to 2.7 meters tall and has an erect stem.

Allergen Potential

  • The allergen potential of Crotalaria trichotoma is considered to be Medium-Low.

Quirky Facts

  • The common name "rattlebox" comes from the fact that the seeds rattle within the pods when they are dry.

Further Information

  • PaDIL (presumably a plant database or information resource)
  • Garden Guides (website with gardening information)