Pioneer rattle pod
Crotalaria natalitia
Family: Fabaceae
What it is like
An erect herb or shrub. It grows 40-50 cm high. The branches are straight. They are covered with fine hairs. The leaves have 3 leaflets. The leaves are 2.5 cm long. The flowers are brownish-yellow. They are in groups of 5-10 at the ends of branches. The fruit are fattened pods 3.5 cm long and 1.3 cm wide.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. It grows between sea level to 3,000 m above sea level. It can grow in arid places.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Angola, Burundi, Central Africa, Congo, East Africa, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Middle East, Mozambique, Rwanda, South Africa, Southern Africa, Sudan, Swaziland, Tanzania, Uganda, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe
How it is used for food
The leaves and flowers are cooked and eaten. They are cooked with potash and peanuts added. The leaves can be dried and pounded.
It is sold in local markets. It is of local importance.
Edible parts
Leaves, flowers, vegetable
How it is grown
Plants can be grown by seed.
Leaves are collected during the rain season. Leaves can be dried, pounded and stored.
Its other names
Local names
Ithumba, Lundale, Luwere, Makasewe, Marajea, Mazamba, Mchekecheke, Nyangasi, Nzegenzege, Thusya