Crotalaria is a genus of herbaceous plants and woody shrubs in the Family Fabaceae (Subfamily Faboideae) commonly known as rattlepods. Some 600 or more species of Crotalaria are described worldwide, mostly from the tropics; at least 500 species are known from Africa. Some species of Crotalaria are grown as ornamentals. The common name rattlepod or rattlebox is derived from the fact that the seeds become loose in the pod as they mature, and rattle when the pod is shaken. The name derives from the Greek , meaning “castanet”, and is the same root as the name for the rattlesnakes (Crotalus).

The Cape rattle-pod is well suited to new gardens as it is very fast-growing and wind resistant. It is evergreen and can reach up to 5 meters in height. The flowers are large and cover this tree from October to April though there will always be some flowers on the tree. The fruit are hollow pods and when they dry the ripe seeds inside rattle in the wind. It makes a stunning hedge plant but can also be used as a screen to hide unsightly areas of the garden. Crotalaria capensis loves a sunny position in the garden with lots of water.