False Sicklepod

crotalaria retusa

Also known as: ["False Sicklepod","Rattlebox"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Crotalaria Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A leguminous plant known for its toxic properties and yellow flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Crotalaria
Botanical Name: Crotalaria retusa

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in temperate to tropical regions
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if plant is overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may flower less.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains for filtered sun; avoid direct afternoon sun indoors.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Warm conditions (65–85°F/18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures; sensitive to frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth

Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 3–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud; shape the plant evenly.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf curl in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; roots may rot in cold, wet soil; leaves may yellow or drop.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced; soil may dry too quickly.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Crotalaria retusa may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Crotalaria retusa can result from water stress, root damage, or disease, leading to reduced nutrient uptake and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Crotalaria retusa are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Crotalaria retusa due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, causing decay and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Crotalaria retusa is toxic to cats due to its pyrrolizidine alkaloid content, which can cause liver toxicity and failure. Cats are particularly sensitive to such compounds.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting lethargy jaundice anorexia abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Immediate veterinary care is required if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

The pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Crotalaria retusa are toxic to dogs, causing liver damage and potential failure. Chronic ingestion can lead to severe health complications.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy jaundice loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Crotalaria retusa contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are hepatotoxic and can cause severe liver damage upon ingestion. Chronic exposure may lead to liver cirrhosis or failure.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain jaundice liver damage
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any part of the plant. Keep away from food preparation areas and ensure proper disposal of plant material.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Crotalaria retusa toxic to humans?

A: Yes, it is toxic to humans.

Q: Does Crotalaria retusa attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: Is Crotalaria retusa a weed?

A: Yes, it is considered a weed.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers"]
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