Arrowhead Rattlebox
Crotalaria sagittalis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
8"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CT and 31 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Arrowhead rattlebox is a low-growing annual wildflower with arrow-shaped leaves and bright yellow pea-like flowers that bloom through summer. This native plant tolerates drought well and produces distinctive seed pods that rattle when mature. It naturally reseeds in sunny, well-drained locations.
In an HOA neighborhood
Arrowhead Rattlebox takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Common name includes 'rattlebox' which sounds concerning
- Can appear weedy and informal in growth habit
- Annual nature means gaps in coverage some seasons
Wildlife value
The yellow flowers attract native bees and beetles during the summer blooming period. As a native legume, it also helps fix nitrogen in the soil.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Arrowhead Rattlebox fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.