Common name: Wedge-leaved Rattlepod
Crotalaria retusa L. APNI* Description: Annual or perennial, variable, erect, to c. 1.5(-4) m high; stems appressed-pubescent, greyish.
Leaves simple, obovate or oblanceolate, 2–14 cm long, 6–34 mm wide, vesicular glandular above; petiole 2–3 mm long; stipules persistent, 1–1.5 mm long.
Racemes up to 36 cm long, many-flowered; pedicels 5–10 mm long. Calyx 9–14 mm long, pubescent. Corolla 18–35 mm long, yellow, tinged reddish; wings ± equal to keel; keel twisted at apex, margins densely finged with crisped hairs.
Pods subcylindric, inflated, 4–8 cm long, 9–13 mm wide. Seeds 20–32, pale brown, 4.5–5 mm long.
Flowering: April.
Distribution and occurrence: Only known from the Wardell region in NSW where it is occasionally naturalised. Grows in disturbed swampy habitats.
NSW subdivisions: *NC
Other Australian states: W.A. N.T. *Qld
The aplication of this name in NSW requres further confirmation. Known to cause 'walkabout' disease in horses.
Text by R.L. Barrett, March 2025
Taxon concept:
APNI* Provides a link to the Australian Plant Name Index (hosted by the Australian National Botanic Gardens) for comprehensive bibliographic data
***The AVH map option provides a detailed interactive Australia wide distribution map drawn from collections held by all major Australian herbaria participating in the Australian Virtual Herbarium project.
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