At first, I believed the nickname, Rattlebox (Crotalaria spectabilis), was based upon its poisonous personality. However, the legume seed pods will rattle when “rattled” by winds. Similar to Milkweed plants, Rattlebox contains toxins (pyrrolizidine alkaloids) to birds and large mammals, yet does not harm butterflies. As we are large mammals, please beware and don’t add them your bouquet! Nature continues to amaze. Copyright 2024 Pamela BreitbergHere is an overal image of the Rattlebox plant. Here, it shows its invasive tendancy. Read about this plant here. Copyright 2024 Pamela Breitberg
