Rattlepods
Crotalaria spp.
Fabaceae
Crotalaria is a genus in the family Fabaceae and are commonly known as rattlepods. It is a large genus and includes herbaceous plants and shrubs (annual and perennial). Flowers generally in terminal racemes and yellow in colour, although streaking/mottling (red) and other colours occur. Many species are reported toxic to stock (Colarado State University). Australia has more than 40 native species. Rattlepods often found in and around orchards are introduced species, but identification is important before clearing. Rattlepods are weeds of roadsides, railway lines, crops, pastures, disturbed sites, waste areas, parks, gardens, open woodlands and riparian vegetation. Flowers are known to attract pollinators, as well butterflies and moths.
Come back soon. Content on this page is being updated
In a study undertaken in Hawaii, Crotalaria incana was recorded as plant where Green vegetable bugs (GVB) were found (Hawaii - Jones et al., 2001). It is also listed as a decoy crop for GVB, that is, lure bugs away from your main plants. Observations from another investigation showed Erysiphe cichoraceum (powdery mildew) was a problem in Crotalaria incana (powdery mildew) (see Article). Also noted was Utetheisa ornatrix (Ornate Bella Moth) - larvae feed on both the foliage and seeds (Featured Creatures - Ornate Bella Moth). The Tropical forages website comment that many pests and diseases are reported with varying degrees of economic damage for certain species of rattlepods. Rattlepods are impacted by Cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus. The species Crotalaria juncea L. (Sunn Hemp), is used to add nitrogen and organic matter to the soils, for weed growth prevention, and to suppress nematode populations. It also provides nectar and pollen for pollinators and habitat for natural enemies (Environmental Entomology). Chrysomelidae and Coccinellidae (ladybirds) were found in Crotalaria juncea and are known predators of Cerotoma arcuata (Kitty - pest beetle of beans) and Diabrotica speciosa (Cucurbit beetle) larvae (Researchgate). Ladybird larvae are also reported to feed on GVB eggs (The seed collection).