Overview
Crotalaria subsessilis Harms is a flowering plant belonging to the legume family, Fabaceae. It is native to Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and South Africa, but has also been introduced to other parts of the world, including Australia and North America. The plant has several common names, including silver rattlepod, woolly crotalaria, and subsessile goldenbanner.Appearance
Crotalaria subsessilis Harms is a perennial herb that can grow up to 1 meter in height. The plant has a woody base, and its stems are covered with dense, silvery hairs. The leaves are alternate and compound, consisting of several leaflets. The flowers are bright yellow and grow in clusters at the ends of the branches. The fruit of the plant is a slender, cylindrical pod that contains several seeds.Uses
Crotalaria subsessilis Harms has several uses. In traditional medicine, the plant has been used to treat malaria, skin infections, and stomach ailments. However, care should be taken when using this plant for medicinal purposes as it can be toxic if consumed in large quantities. The plant is also used as a forage crop, providing grazing for livestock. Additionally, the plant has nitrogen-fixing properties, which makes it useful in improving soil fertility. In conclusion, Crotalaria subsessilis Harms is a versatile plant that has several traditional and modern uses. Its unique appearance makes it a valuable ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping. Its nitrogen-fixing properties also make it a valuable addition to sustainable farming practices.Light Requirements
Crotalaria subsessilis Harms grows best in full sun to partial shade. The plant requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to grow and thrive. Too little sunlight can result in stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Crotalaria subsessilis Harms grows well in warm temperatures ranging from 20 to 30°C (68 to 86°F). The plant cannot tolerate frost or extreme heat above 40°C (104°F). It is best to plant the seeds in early spring when the weather begins to warm up.
Soil Requirements
Crotalaria subsessilis Harms prefers well-draining soils with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, the soil has to be fertile and rich in nutrients, especially nitrogen, which is essential for the plant's growth. The plant is susceptible to root rot, so the soil should not be waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods for Crotalaria subsessilis Harms
Crotalaria subsessilis Harms prefers warm weather and thrives in well-draining soil. It can be grown in pots or directly planted in the ground. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The plant prefers full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade.
Watering Needs for Crotalaria subsessilis Harms
Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season, to keep the soil constantly moist. Overwatering can cause root rot, so be sure to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Once the plant is established, it can tolerate some drought, but it is still better to water it regularly to ensure optimal growth.
Fertilization for Crotalaria subsessilis Harms
Apply a slow-release fertilizer every six months to ensure that the plant is getting the necessary nutrients. Alternatively, use a liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning for Crotalaria subsessilis Harms
Crotalaria subsessilis Harms does not require extensive pruning, but you can remove any dead or damaged branches to keep the plant looking neat and tidy. Additionally, you can pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. However, avoid severe pruning, as this can stress the plant and reduce flowering in the following season.
Propagation of Crotalaria subsessilis Harms
Crotalaria subsessilis Harms, also known as the sessile stemmed rattlebox, is a plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is a perennial shrub that is native to Africa, specifically found in Angola, Cameroon, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo.
Propagation methods
The propagation of Crotalaria subsessilis Harms can be carried out through various methods such as seed propagation, cutting propagation, and division.
Seed propagation
Propagation of Crotalaria subsessilis Harms through seeds is possible. The seeds of Crotalaria subsessilis Harms need to be collected when they are fully mature and dry. After collecting the seeds, they need to be soaked overnight in water to improve their germination rate. After soaking, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining potting mix. The potting mix should be kept moderately moist, and the seeds should be kept in a warm and bright location. Germination can take up to 21 days, and the seedlings can be transplanted after they have grown at least two true leaves.
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation of Crotalaria subsessilis Harms is possible, although it is not a commonly used method. Cuttings of the plant can be taken during the late spring or early summer months from the current year's growth. The cuttings should be taken from healthy and disease-free plants. The bottom of the cuttings should be dipped into rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be kept moderately moist and in a warm and bright location. It takes about 4-5 weeks for cuttings to root and can be transplanted after they have developed a strong root system.
Division
Propagation of Crotalaria subsessilis Harms through division is also possible. It is best to divide the plant during the early spring months just before new growth appears. The plant should be dug out, and the root ball should be divided into smaller sections. The sections should be replanted in a well-draining potting mix and kept moderately moist. Divisions take several weeks to establish, and the plant should not be fertilized until the new growth appears.
Disease Management
Crotalaria subsessilis Harms, also known as the Texas rattleweed, is a resilient plant that is not often affected by diseases. However, it is still vulnerable to some fungal and bacterial diseases. The following are some common diseases that might affect Crotalaria subsessilis Harms:
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal infection that causes the development of small, circular, brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. It is caused by a fungus called Cercospora crotalariae. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and destroy them. The use of a fungicide may also be necessary.
- Rust: Rust is another fungal disease that affects Crotalaria subsessilis Harms. It causes the development of yellow, orange, or red spots on the leaves. It is caused by several fungi belonging to the Puccinia genus. To manage rust, remove the infected leaves and destroy them. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Bacterial Blight: This is a bacterial disease that affects the stem and foliage of the plant, causing the development of water-soaked spots and wilting. It is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas crotalariae. To manage this disease, remove the infected plants and improve the plant's cultural conditions.
Pest Management
Crotalaria subsessilis Harms is also susceptible to attack by some insect pests. The following are some common pests that might affect Crotalaria subsessilis Harms and how to manage them:
- Mites: Spider mites are common pests that attack Crotalaria subsessilis Harms. They cause damage by sucking the sap out of the leaves, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce predatory mites that feed on spider mites.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are another pest that might attack Crotalaria subsessilis Harms. They feed on the leaves and can cause significant damage to the plant. To manage them, handpick them off the plant or apply a biological pest control agent containing Bacillus thuringiensis (BT).
- Aphids: Aphids can also be a problem, especially in large numbers, as they weaken the plant and excrete a sticky substance that attracts ants. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
