Shakeshake: A Fuzzy Yellow Charmer for Warm Climate Gardens
If you’ve ever come across a plant with distinctly fuzzy, silvery leaves and cheerful yellow flowers that produces seed pods that literally shake and rattle, you’ve likely encountered shakeshake (Crotalaria incana). This intriguing plant goes by several names – you might also hear it called fuzzy rattlepod, rattlebox, or in Hawaii, kukaehik.
What Makes Shakeshake Special?
Shakeshake is a forb or herb that can behave as an annual, biennial, or perennial depending on growing conditions. What sets it apart is its distinctive appearance: soft, silvery-green leaves covered in fine hairs give the plant its fuzzy nickname, while small, bright yellow pea-like flowers bloom along upright stems. But perhaps most memorable are the inflated seed pods that develop after flowering – these papery capsules contain seeds that rattle when shaken, hence the common name shakeshake.
Where Does Shakeshake Grow?
Originally native to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, shakeshake has established itself across various warm regions including Alabama, Florida, Hawaii, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, and several U.S. territories like Guam and Palau. In most of these areas, it’s considered a non-native species that has naturalized successfully.
Should You Plant Shakeshake in Your Garden?
The decision to grow shakeshake depends on your location and gardening goals. Here are some considerations:
Potential Benefits:
- Attractive yellow flowers that bloom over extended periods
- Unique silvery, fuzzy foliage adds textural interest
- Drought tolerant once established
- Nitrogen-fixing properties can benefit soil health
- Attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies
- Interesting seed pods provide educational value and natural curiosity
Things to Consider:
- Non-native in most areas where it’s commonly grown
- Can self-seed readily, potentially spreading beyond intended areas
- May not provide the same ecological benefits as native alternatives
If you’re interested in supporting local ecosystems, consider researching native alternatives that provide similar aesthetic appeal and pollinator benefits in your specific region.
Growing Shakeshake Successfully
If you decide to grow shakeshake, you’ll find it’s remarkably easy-going. This plant thrives in USDA hardiness zones 9-11, making it suitable for tropical and subtropical climates.
Ideal Growing Conditions:
- Sunlight: Full sun for best flowering and growth
- Soil: Well-draining soil; tolerates poor soils well
- Water: Drought tolerant once established, but appreciates regular watering during establishment
- Space: Allow adequate spacing as plants can spread
Wetland Preferences
Shakeshake generally prefers upland conditions, though its tolerance varies by region. In most areas including the Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain, Caribbean, and Great Plains regions, it’s classified as Facultative Upland, meaning it usually grows in non-wetland areas but can occasionally tolerate some moisture. In Hawaii, it’s considered Obligate Upland and almost never occurs in wetlands.
Care and Maintenance
One of shakeshake’s appeals is its low-maintenance nature. Once established, it requires minimal care:
- Water occasionally during dry spells, especially in the first year
- Deadhead spent flowers if you want to prevent self-seeding
- Allow some seed pods to mature if you enjoy the rattling sound and educational aspect
- Monitor for spreading and remove unwanted seedlings
- No fertilization typically needed due to its nitrogen-fixing ability
The Bottom Line
Shakeshake can be an interesting addition to warm-climate gardens, offering unique textures, cheerful flowers, and educational value through its distinctive seed pods. However, as a non-native species in most areas where it’s grown, gardeners should weigh the benefits against the potential ecological impact. If you choose to grow it, enjoy its quirky charm while being mindful of its spreading tendencies, and consider pairing it with native plants that support local wildlife and ecosystems.
Whether you’re drawn to its fuzzy foliage, bright blooms, or those irresistible rattling pods, shakeshake certainly lives up to its playful name and can bring a touch of tropical whimsy to the right garden setting.
