Parrot Pea, Green Birdflower, Dwarf birdflower, Rattlepod birdflower
Crotalaria cunninghamii
Family: Fabaceae
What it is like
A small to medium sized shrub. It grows 1-2.5 m high and spreads 0.5-2 m across. The leaves are soft and hairy. They are 3-8 cm long by 1-4 cm wide. The flowers are 2.5-3 cm long. The flowers are long and yellow green. They are streaked with fine black lines. They are like a bird. The fruit are hairy pods. They are 2-4 cm long.
There are about 550 Crotalaria species. They are mostly tropical.
Where it is found
It grows in warm temperate regions and suits arid and semiarid places. It needs well drained soil. It can grow in dry soil and full sunlight. It suits hardiness zones 9-11.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
Edible parts
Flower nectar, seeds
How it is grown
Plants can be grown by seed or stem cuttings.
Its other names
Local names
Urlg