Fabaceae-Papilionaceae
Crotalaria grata
Grata Rattlepod
S
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This attractive shrub features bright yellow, pea-like flowers, often with reddish streaks, appearing in terminal racemes above its dense foliage. Its most distinctive feature is the inflated, pea-pod like fruit which, when dry, produces a characteristic rattling sound from the loose seeds within.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for full sun to partial shade, this adaptable shrub thrives in well-drained soils typical of the Kilifi coast. Use it as an informal low hedge, a robust ground cover, or for ecological restoration due to its nitrogen-fixing properties.
Growing notes
A relatively fast-growing species, it establishes quickly and becomes drought-tolerant once mature. Water regularly until established, then occasionally; note that many Crotalaria species are known to be toxic to livestock if ingested.
Sources
Drafted from: Gemini 2.5 Flash. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.