Origin and Common Names
Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker, commonly known as Schimper's Abrus, is a perennial climbing plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. The species is native to East Africa, specifically found in countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Somalia. Schimper's Abrus is commonly known by various names across East Africa, including umlaazi (Swahili), ikwa enzinzi (Luhya), mular (Tigre), and koiboikoi (Kipsigis).Appearance
Schimper's Abrus is a woody and perennial climbing plant that can scramble over other vegetation with its slender, twining stems. On a typical view, Schimper's Abrus looks approximately 3-4 m long with slender and filiform leaf-clad branches. The leaves are alternate, pinnate, 7-11cm long, with 8-14 pairs of leaflets, each measuring around 8-12 mm long. The plant flowers from February to May with long-stalked, silky, creamy white or pale-yellow flowers that are approximately 10-12 mm long. The fruit is a thin, flat, ovate, or elliptical pod, approximately 2.5-6 cm long, with 4-8 dark-brown seeds.Uses
Schimper's Abrus has various traditional and medicinal uses in East Africa. In Ethiopia, the plant is used as a medicinal plant for the treatment of skin diseases and stomach aches. The plant is also used in veterinary medicine as a dewormer, specifically for equine strongylosis. The dried roots of the Schimper's Abrus are used as a pest repellent for grain storage. Furthermore, the seeds of the plant have economic significance, as they contain a toxic, bright-red, shiny, and hard seed coat (often referred to as "red seeds"). These seeds have been used for ornamental purposes, making jewelry, and as traditional beads across East Africa. However, the use of these seeds is restricted as they have toxic compounds that can cause severe illness or death if ingested.Light Requirements
Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker is a plant that requires plenty of sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade. Lack of adequate sunlight may result in stunted growth and poor development of flowers and fruits.
Temperature Requirements
Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker is a tropical plant that prefers warm temperatures. It grows best in temperatures that range between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The plant is susceptible to frost damage and should, therefore, be protected during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers soil with a pH that ranges between 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. The use of a fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and potassium is recommended for optimal growth.
Water Requirements
Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and damage to the plant.
Humidity Requirements
Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker thrives in moderate to high humidity levels. It benefits from regular misting, especially during dry periods. A humidifier can also be used to increase the humidity levels around the plant.
Cultivation
Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker is a woody climber that grows vigorously in tropical and subtropical regions. It thrives in well-drained soils and can tolerate a wide range of soil pH. The plant requires partial shade to full sun exposure to grow and develop healthily.
The plant is propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. Sow seeds in the soil during the spring season. Carefully transplant young seedlings to containers or garden beds once they reach a height of 10-15 cm, and well-rooted cuttings could also be planted directly in the soil to grow.
Watering Needs
Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker requires regular watering throughout the growing season. It is essential to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as soggy soil could promote root rot and other diseases. Therefore, ensure the soil is well-drained. Water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the climatic conditions and the soil's moisture level.
Fertilization
Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker requires a nutrient-rich soil to grow to its full potential. Therefore, it is recommended to apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Apply fertilizer following the manufacturer's instructions, and avoid excessive use, as it may burn the plant's roots and cause damage.
Pruning
Pruning helps regulate the plant's size and shape and promotes healthy growth. Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker should be pruned during the dormant season to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. It is also recommended to trim the plant to encourage bushy growth and stimulate flowering. Prune at the base of the stem or just above a healthy leaf node.
Propagation of Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker
Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker, also commonly known as the Ethiopian pea or Indian liquorice, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to East Africa, particularly Ethiopia. When it comes to propagating this plant, there are several methods that you can use, including:
Seed propagation
This is the most common method of propagating Abrus schimperi. It involves collecting seeds from mature plants and then sowing them in a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be planted shallowly and not buried too deep. Water the seeds regularly and place them in a warm and bright location.
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation is another viable method of propagating Abrus schimperi. For this method, you will need to take cuttings of the plant and then root them. Cuttings should be taken from mature plants and should be about 6 inches long, with 2-3 sets of leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone before planting them in a soil mix of peat moss and perlite. The soil should be kept moist, but not too wet, and the cuttings should be kept in a warm and bright location until they have rooted.
Division propagation
Division propagation is another method of multiplying Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker. It is typically done when the plant has grown too large and needs to be divided. To propagate via division, you will need to carefully remove the plant from its pot or garden bed and then divide the plant into smaller sections using a sharp knife. Each section should have its own roots and shoots. Repot each section in its own container, and care for each as you would a mature plant.
Propagation of Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker can be a lot of fun, and it is a great way to add more plants to your collection. With the right care and attention, you can easily propagate this beautiful plant and enjoy its lovely foliage for years to come.
Disease Management for Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker
Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker is a hardy plant that can withstand some diseases and pests, especially when it is grown in appropriate conditions. However, some diseases and pests may still attack the plant, leading to reduced growth and yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect Abrus schimperi and how to manage them:
Diseases
1. Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects several parts of Abrus schimperi, including the leaves, stems, and pods. Symptoms include dark brown spots on the leaves and pods, premature leaf drop, and reduced seed yield. To manage anthracnose, it is essential to remove and destroy all infected plant parts. You can also apply fungicides to protect the healthy parts of the plant from further infection.
2. Leaf Rust
Leaf rust is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of Abrus schimperi. Symptoms include the development of orange-brown pustules on the lower part of the leaves. These pustules release spores that can spread the disease to other parts of the plant. To manage leaf rust, you can apply fungicides and remove all infected leaves.
Pest Management for Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker
1. Aphids
Aphids are common pests that attack several parts of Abrus schimperi, including the leaves, stems, and pods. They suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth, curled leaves, and reduced seed yield. To manage aphids, you can introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings into your farm. You can also use pest control products, such as neem oil, to repel aphids.
2. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that also suck sap from the plant. They prefer hot, dry conditions and can cause yellowing of the plant leaves. To manage spider mites, you can introduce their natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings. You can also spray the plant with pest control products containing acaricides to kill the mites.
In conclusion, Abrus schimperi Hochst. ex Baker is a hardy plant, but it is still susceptible to some diseases and pests. To maximize its growth and yield, it is essential to implement proper disease and pest management practices. These practices include removing and destroying infected plant parts, using fungicides and pest control products, and introducing natural predators to control pests.
