Water
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during active growth. Reduce watering in cooler months, allowing the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged roots.
Also known as Brazilian Glory-Pea · Caf≠ De La Costa · Chinese Rattlebox
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Rattlebox (Sesbania punicea) is an ornamental shrub with showy coral-red flowers, but it is toxic to livestock and can be invasive.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering and growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist during growing season, allow to dry slightly in cooler months. Ensure good drainage.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures, generally between 18-27°C. Protect from frost and sudden cold drafts.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly during the growing season with a balanced liquid feed. Avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 5/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Toxic to pets and humans if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist, especially during active growth. Reduce watering in cooler months, allowing the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Ensure good drainage to prevent waterlogged roots.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to remove any dead or damaged branches. Light pruning can be done in spring to encourage bushier growth.
Heavy pruning can be performed in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
Seeds are the primary method of propagation. Scarify seeds by nicking them or soaking them in hot water to improve germination. Sow seeds in well-draining soil in spring.
Cuttings can also be taken from semi-hardwood in summer.
Young plants may need repotting annually or bi-annually into slightly larger containers. Mature plants are less fussy and can remain in their pots for several years.
Repot in spring, using a fresh, well-draining potting mix.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Rattlebox (Sesbania punicea)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Sesbania |
| Species | Sesbania punicea |
Similar in genus Sesbania
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
