Overview
Crotalaria subumbellata Torre, also known as the showy rattlebox or Puerto Rico rattlebox, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to Puerto Rico and can also be found in other parts of the Caribbean, as well as in South America and Central America.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the showy rattlebox due to the sound produced by its seeds inside the pod. In Puerto Rico, it is also called "sacha cadillo" or "cadillo cimarrón".
Uses
Crotalaria subumbellata has both medicinal and ecological uses. The plant has been traditionally used in Puerto Rican folk medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, coughs, and skin conditions. Its foliage and seeds are also used as a natural pesticide to control pests such as mites and aphids in crop fields.
Ecologically, the plant plays an important role in the nitrogen cycle as it is a legume that can fix atmospheric nitrogen in the soil. It is also used as a cover crop in agriculture to prevent erosion and improve soil fertility.
Appearance
Crotalaria subumbellata is a herbaceous shrub that can grow up to 2 meters in height. It has elongated leaves that are grey-green in color and covered in tiny hairs. The flowers are bright yellow, with five petals and a distinct tubular shape, and are arranged in clusters at the tip of the stem. The pod that contains the plant's seeds is curved and covered in dense, white hairs, which produce a rattling sound when shaken.
Light Requirements
Crotalaria subumbellata requires an ample amount of sunlight to grow and thrive. The plant prefers full sun and requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Lack of sunlight can lead to poor growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is adapted to warm and tropical climates. It requires moderate temperatures and does not tolerate extreme cold or frost. The ideal temperature range for the growth of Crotalaria subumbellata is between 21°C to 32°C. At lower temperatures, the growth of the plant can be significantly affected.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, sand, and loam, but the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH range of 5.8 to 7.2). The plant does not thrive in waterlogged or poorly drained soil as it can lead to root rot.
Cultivation
Crotalaria subumbellata Torre, commonly known as Rattlebox, is a perennial shrub that thrives well in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11. In areas where it gets too cold in winter, it dies back to the ground but resprouts in spring.
The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and slightly acidic or neutral. It can tolerate some drought but prefers moist conditions. It is highly adaptable to different soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils.
The plant thrives well in full sun but can also grow in partial shade, especially in hot and dry areas.
Watering
Watering is crucial during the establishment phase of Crotalaria subumbellata Torre. It requires regular watering until it establishes roots after which it can tolerate some drought periods. However, it is essential to ensure that the soil never gets too dry, especially during prolonged dry spells.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is crucial to ensure that the soil drains well to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
Crotalaria subumbellata Torre requires moderate fertilization to grow well and produce healthy foliage and blooms. Incorporating compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting provides the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
During the growing season, the plant may benefit from an all-purpose fertilizer applied every four to six weeks. Avoid overfertilization because it can lead to excessive foliage growth and poor bloom development.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Crotalaria subumbellata Torre, but it can help maintain its shape and size. Deadheading spent blooms can encourage more blooms to develop, keeping the plant looking tidy and attractive.
If the plant becomes too leggy, you can cut it back by up to a third of its total height to promote bushier growth. Prune back after flowering or in early spring before new growth emerges.
Propagation of Crotalaria Subumbellata Torre
Crotalaria subumbellata Torre, commonly known as bush rattlepod, is a perennial herb that can be propagated by several methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common way of propagating Crotalaria subumbellata Torre. The seeds of the plant should be collected when they are fully matured and have turned brown. They should be sown in a well-prepared seedbed and covered lightly with soil. Watering should be done regularly but not excessively until germination occurs. The seedlings can be transplanted once they have developed adequate root systems.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Crotalaria subumbellata Torre can also be done through stem cuttings. To propagate through stem cuttings, select healthy, non-flowering stems and cut them into sections of 6-8 inches. Remove the leaves towards the bottom of the stem and dip the cuttings in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a container filled with a well-draining potting mix and keep them moist. The cuttings should start rooting in four to six weeks.
Division Propagation
The clump-forming nature of Crotalaria subumbellata Torre makes it possible to propagate through division. Dig up the whole plant and separate it into smaller sections. Each section should have its roots and shoots then replant the divided sections in a pre-dug hole and water thoroughly.
Offshoot and Suckers Propagation
Crotalaria subumbellata Torre can produce offshoots and suckers, making it another propagation option. Cut off the offshoot or sucker and plant it in a well-prepared bed or container of well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly and protect it from direct sunlight until it develops a sufficient root system.
Propagation of Crotalaria subumbellata Torre through seeds, cuttings, division, offshoots, and suckers is simple and straightforward, allowing for easy propagation and an abundance of plants by propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Crotalaria subumbellata Torre Plants
Crotalaria subumbellata Torre, also known as Rattlebox, is a legume plant that grows in sandy soils across the southeastern United States. While the plant is generally hardy and tolerant of many pest and disease problems, it can still be affected by a few common issues.
Common Diseases
The most common disease affecting Crotalaria subumbellata is root rot caused by Fusarium oxysporum and Pythium spp. Root rot can be prevented by reducing watering frequency and increasing soil drainage. Fungicides can be applied to the soil to help prevent root rot, but it is important to choose the correct fungicide as some can damage the plant.
Another less common disease that can affect Rattlebox is leaf spot caused by Alternaria spp. Leaf spot can be controlled by removing diseased leaves and applying a fungicide spray to the remaining foliage. It is important to properly dispose of affected plant material to prevent re-infection.
Common Pests
Crotalaria subumbellata is relatively pest-free, but a few pests can still cause damage. The most common pest problem is damage from caterpillars such as the Soybean Looper and the Cabbage Looper, which can cause significant leaf damage if not identified and controlled early. Insecticidal sprays containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or Spinosad can help control caterpillars and prevent further damage.
Leafhoppers and aphids can also occasionally feed on Rattlebox, causing stunted growth and leaf discoloration. Insecticidal soaps or Neem oil can be used to control these pests.
Preventative Measures
Maintaining proper plant care practices and sanitation is key to avoiding diseases and pest problems. Regularly inspecting plants for signs of pests or disease and removing any affected plant material can help prevent the spread of infections. It is also important to avoid introducing pests and diseases to healthy plants by using clean tools and avoiding unnecessary contact with other plants.
In short, monitoring the moisture levels in the soil, removing affected plant material, and using natural and chemical control methods will help to keep Crotalaria subumbellata Torre plants healthy and free from pests and disease.
