Rattlebox (Crotalaria pumila)

Description:  Annual or short-lived perennial from 6" to 2 ft tall, rapid growth, spreading to small dome-like shape 2- 3 ft wide in full sun, with attractive yellow flowers (sometimes tinged with orange); ripe brown pods will "rattle" with loose seeds. 

Natural Habitat:  Pinelands, beach dunes, and sandy areas.

Planting and Care:   Needs some full sunlight to flower best, but does OK in partial shade, where it will have a less compact shape.  Tolerates some drought once established, but needs daily water for at least 2 weeks after planting. 

Pros:  Attractive shrub with abundant yellow flowers; draws pollinators. Tolerates poor soil. Host plant for the day-flying Ornate Bella Moth (Utetheisa ornatrix), whose caterpillars eat the unripe seeds. Self seeds in open ground. 

Cons:   Short-lived; usually 1-2 years.