Crotalaria spectabilis 15 Seeds, Showy Rattlebox Rattlepod Flowering Herb

$3.99

Crotalaria spectabilis
Also known as: Showy Rattlebox, Rattlepod, Cat's Bell

Here is a flowering herb native to the Indian Subcontinent, southern China, and Southeast Asia. It grows up to 5' tall in grasslands, along forest edges, and within meadows. It is a leguminous plant known for its use as a cover crop, which possesses nematode-suppressive effects and the ability to fix nitrogen.

The stems and leaves are edible and have been used as a potherb as well as a medicinal plant for centuries among various indigenous people. However, all parts of the plant are toxic if not prepared properly, with the seeds containing the highest concentration. It is also toxic to livestock and all household pets including rabbits etc, causing liver damage. The toxin remains potent even in dried, dead plant material and these seeds are said to remain viable for up to 40 years or more.
It is an annual but also sometimes found as a perennial in its native range.
It can be grown outdoors year-round in zones 8-11. The plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

This offer is for 15 seeds.