Sesbania punicea (Cav.) Benth. - Rattlebox
Family - Fabaceae
Stems:
Twig.
Mature stem.
Leaves:
N/A
Inflorescence:
Flowers:
Fruit.
Flowering - May - October.
Habitat - Moist disturbed sites, tidal marshes.
Origin - Native to South America.
Other information - This very attractive species can be found growing wild mainly in the southern half of Alabama. The plant is cultivated elsewhere. This is a shrub to small tree which reaches a height of +2m. The plant grows easily from seed and makes a fantastic garden specimen. It is easily identified by its bright red flowers and 4-winged fruits.
The genus name Sesbania is a latinized version of the old name "Sesban" of Arabic origin.
The species epithet punicea derives from the Latin "punic" meaning "purple, reddish" for the flowers.
Alabama Distribution:
Photographs taken at the Eufala National Wildlife Refuge, AL., 7-23-05.