SafePlants

Rattlebox: A Multifaceted Name

The term "Rattlebox" is a common name applied to various plants, most notably those within the legume family (Fabaceae) that possess inflated fruits containing seeds that rattle when shaken. This page explores the plants known as Rattlebox, considering their varied aspects from botanical classifications to ecological implications.

Considerations for Pets

• Crotalaria albida, also known as Rattlebox, is stated to be toxic to horses due to the presence of Pyrrolizidine alkaloids.

Considerations for Children

• The plant derives its name from the inflated pods containing seeds that rattle, potentially making it attractive to children.

Scientific Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Common Name: Rattlebox, Rattlebush, Poisonbean, Chinese Rattlebox, Spanish Gold
• Rattlebox commonly refers to plants in the genera Crotalaria and Sesbania.
• Specific scientific names mentioned:
  • Crotalaria albida
  • Crotalaria sagittalis
  • Crotalaria spectabilis Roth (Synonyms: Crotalaria retzii A.S. Hitchc., C. sericea Retz., nom. illeg.)
  • Crotalaria pallida (Smooth Rattlebox)
  • Sesbania punicea (Cav.) Benth.
  • Sesbania drummondii
  • Sesbania tripetii
  • Daubentonia tripetii
• Family: Fabaceae (Pea family), Subfamily Faboideae (for Sesbania punicea, Sesbania tripetii and Daubentonia tripetii)

Distribution and Habitat

• Crotalaria spectabilis is native to the Indo-Malaysian area but has been widely planted around the world's tropics.
• In Texas, Rattlebox species can be found from the North Central area into the Coastal Plain, growing on low wet grounds, extending into Mexico and east through Arkansas.
• Sesbania punicea is found in wetland environments.
• There are seven species of Rattlebox found in South Florida, only two of which are Florida natives. Crotalaria pallida, or smooth rattlebox, is an import.

Ecological Role

• Rattlebox (species unspecified but likely referring to Sesbania punicea) is described as a fairly common exotic invasive shrub of wet, sunny areas in the Coastal Plain, introduced from its native South America.
• Some Crotalaria species are used for pasture and green-manure crops.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Rattlebox plants are characterized by inflated pods containing seeds that rattle when the stem is moved.
• Crotalaria sagittalis is described as a summer annual about 6-12 inches tall that branches occasionally.
• Sesbania drummondii has many branches in the upper part of the plant that are well-separated.
• Crotalaria pallida has racemes of 1 to 4 yellow pea-shaped flowers 1/3 inch long with a hairy calyx.
• Rattlebox (unspecified species) is an annual that completes its life cycle in one season but will re-seed.
• Rattlebox prefers acidic soil with a pH of 4 to 6 and sandy soils.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Utetheisa ornatrix, also known as Bella Moth, Rattlebox Moth, Inornate Moth or Calico Moth.

Further Information

• Dictionary.com
• Wikipedia (article on rattlebox)
• Wikispecies (information on: Crotalaria)
• Collins English Dictionary online
• Dave's Garden