Crotalaria retusa (Devil Bean)

Crotalaria retusa

Botanical name: Crotalaria retusa

Common names: Devil Bean, Rattleweed, Shack Shack

Subfamily: Faboideae

Origin: Tropical Asia, Africa and Australia

Devil Bean, Rattleweed, Shack Shack. This low growing relative of Cassias/sennas has spectacular yellow flowers followed by curios, balloon-like, rattling seedpods. It has beautiful lush foliage. Very easy to grow, not demanding and fast growing. Attracts butterflies and bees. The plant can flower year round.

This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby. The plant contains alkaloids and used medicinally in some tropical countries.

The flowers and leaves have a sweet flavor and are edible as a vegetable. Their alkaloid content is very low. Known to be toxic to livestock, particularly goats, though current research does not confirm harmful effects on honeybees. The roasted dehulled seeds are eaten in Vietnam. The roots are used against coughing. A decoction of the flowers and leaves is used to soothe a cold. The seeds are eaten raw to act as an analgesic to deaden the pain of a scorpion sting. It is used for cordage and making canvas.

Used as a dye plant in East Africa.