Crotalaria longirostrata — a medium houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Crotalaria longirostrata

Crotalaria Longirostrata

Updated · 2 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Crotalaria longirostrata, the chipilín, is a perennial legume that is native to Mexico and Central America. Other common names include chepil, chepilin, chipilin and longbeak rattlebox.

A note from PlantMom

Chipilín has moderate resistance to disease but can be vulnerable to ailments like leaf spot. Its vulnerability to insect pests differs by variety, though most cultivars are less resistant to pests. Regarding care, Chipilín requires regular watering and fertilizing, along with frequent pruning of yellowing leaves. Pests and diseases should be managed as they appear, and the plant should be harvested promptly. Chipilín is appropriate for people who can invest some time and energy in routine care.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Crotalaria Longirostrata.

Light

Chipilín is native to places with abundant sunlight, like open fields and sunlit meadows. It favors full sun but can also tolerate partial sun.

Water

Chipilín thrives in tropical environments and prefers soil that is consistently moist. To prevent waterlogging, it should be watered twice a week. This evergreen plant is often grown outdoors and relies on adequate moisture to maintain its foliage throughout the year.

Temperature

Chipilín prefers moderate temperatures, similar to the range most people find comfortable. It grows best when conditions are not excessively hot or cold. The primary concern with high heat is the danger of sunburn, so providing some shade in summer is recommended to avoid overheating. When temperatures decline, Chipilín goes dormant. To maintain continuous growth, warmer conditions need to be kept through the winter. Frost can injure the plant and should be avoided.

Fertilizer

To maximize yield, Chipilín does best with regular applications of a balanced fertilizer, particularly formulas higher in nitrogen. Apply fertilizer before planting, at the time of planting, and again when seedlings are about 2 inches tall. Adding compost or manure also supplies nutrients continuously. Too few nutrients in the soil cause underdeveloped leaves and stems, thin stems, inferior flavors, and possibly a bitter taste.

Pruning

Chipilín is known for its vibrant yellow flowers and rapid growth. To keep your plant healthy and looking its best, start by pruning it in early spring. This will help remove any dead branches and improve air circulation. Regular light pruning throughout the growing season will encourage denser foliage and more blooms. It's also important to manage Chipilín's vigorous growth to prevent it from becoming invasive. By doing so, you can maintain a more manageable and visually appealing plant.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Tree, Shrub
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Crotalaria
Family
Fabaceae
Hardiness Zone
6-11
Mature Height
1.52 m
Mature Spread
49 cm to 91 cm
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Semi-evergreen
Flower Color
Yellow
Flower Size
1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
Bloom Time
Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Early fall
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Summer, Fall
Native Area
Honduras, Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Castanet-plant en Long-beak rattlepod en Longbeak rattlebox en Chapil en Long-beak Rattlebox en Long-beak crotalaria
FREQUENTLY ASKED

Reader questions.

What is Chipilín?

Chipilín, known botanically as Crotalaria longirostrata, is a plant native to certain regions. Unfortunately, there is no detailed information provided on its uses, essentials, or symptoms associated with it.

ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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