Shack shack - Crotalaria retusa (Taxonomy, Characteristics, Invasive, Images, Edible)

Shack shack

Also known as: Noxious weed

Many US states classify shack shack (Crotalaria retusa) as a noxious weed since it is a fast-spreading, drought-tolerant plant. The plant is toxic to humans and livestock, containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids. However, despite all these negatives shack shack at least produces attractive hood-shaped yellow flowers.

Scientific classification

Species

Shack shack (Crotalaria retusa)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Late summer, Early fall

Bloom Time

60 cm to 1.5 m

Plant Height

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Size

Yellow

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Shack shack

Distribution of Shack shack

Distribution Map

Shack shack has a native presence in multiple regions, including parts of Africa, Asia, and Oceania. The plant also enjoys an introduced status across significant portions of the Americas, with a more limited introduced range spanning areas of Europe and the Pacific islands. While shack shack has been noted as invasive in certain locales such as the Pacific islands and parts of South America, its influence on ecosystems in these regions is nuanced and may vary, often having some impact on local biodiversity.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Coastal grassland, riversides, waste places, fields, open places in deciduous dipterocarp forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Shack shack

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Shack shack originates from tropical regions, thriving in high humidity and consistent moisture. It prefers weekly watering and can tolerate short dry spells. As an outdoor plant, it needs more frequent watering during the active growing season to counter increased evaporation.

Pruning: Shack shack thrives with early to late spring pruning, focusing on removing dead branches and shaping for aesthetics. Address crossing branches for better air circulation and disease reduction. This practice promotes vigorous growth and enhances flowering, resulting in a bushier, more appealing plant.

Propagation: Shack shack is a shrubby leguminous plant that requires full sunlight and well-draining soil. Propagation involves lightly scarifying seeds, soaking them in water for 12-24 hours, and then sowing in seed-starting mix. Consistent moisture and warmth are vital for germination, along with adequate space for seedlings.

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Images of Shack shack

Distribution of Shack shack

Care Guide for Shack shack

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