Overview of Adenodolichos exellii Torre
Adenodolichos exellii Torre, also known as Exell's yellow bean, is a species of flowering plant in the legume family that is native to Kenya and Tanzania. The plant is mainly found in dry Acacia-Commiphora bushlands and is a common food source for the Maasai people. The genus name Adenodolichos is derived from two Greek words, aden meaning gland and dolichos meaning elongated, which refers to the glandular hairy stems that are present in this species.
General Appearance
The Adenodolichos exellii Torre is a small shrub that grows up to 1.5 meters high and has a woody stem. Its leaves are compound, with three round leaflets that are pointed at the tips and have serrated edges. The plant produces bright yellow flowers in clusters at the end of its branches, and the pods that contain the seeds are long and slender, usually curved and up to 10 cm in length.
Common Names
Adenodolichos exellii Torre is commonly known as Exell's yellow bean and is also referred to as the Maasai bean due to its consumption by the Maasai tribe.
Uses
The plant is primarily used as a food source for both humans and animals. The seeds of the Adenodolichos exellii Torre are gathered and boiled, and the resulting bean-like product is used in soups, stews, and as a side dish. The seeds are also used to feed livestock as they are high in protein. Additionally, the plant is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as malaria and respiratory infections.
Light Requirements
Adenodolichos exellii Torre thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires bright light, but direct exposure to the scorching sun must be avoided. In regions with hot and dry summers, it is best to provide the plant with some shade.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm temperatures, with a minimum temperature of 15 °C. It can withstand temperatures up to 35 °C and is resistant to frost and cold temperature.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in well-drained soils, with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It prefers light, sandy soils that are rich in nutrients and organic matter. Adenodolichos exellii Torre requires regular watering, and the soil must be moist but not waterlogged.
Air Humidity Requirements
Adenodolichos exellii Torre grows well in areas with high humidity levels. The plant requires regular misting to maintain the moistness of its leaves and to ensure proper growth. However, it can also tolerate lower humidity levels.
Cultivation
Adenodolichos exellii Torre grows well in a well-draining soil mix, preferably composed of equal parts of sand and loam. Given that they are climbers, ensure that there is a trellis or pole for the plant to grow on.
Plant the Adenodolichos exellii Torre in a sunny location with sufficient shade in the afternoon. A spot where the plant receives morning sun and afternoon shade is ideal.
Watering Needs
The Adenodolichos exellii Torre thrives in humid conditions. Ensure that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged. Increase watering frequency in dry, hot seasons but do not overwater.
It's essential to note that, while too little water is detrimental to the plant, excessive water can lead to root rot and the decline and death of the plant.
Fertilization
Adenodolichos exellii Torre requires regular fertilization during the growing season. Employ a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every three to four weeks—reduce fertilization frequency in the dormant season.
Adenodolichos exellii Torre's fertilizer requirements are relatively low. Over-fertilization can cause extensive growth, which in turn reduces the plant's flowering ability.
Pruning
Adenodolichos exellii Torre grows fast and often requires pruning. Pruning is best done during the dormant season, usually in late winter or early spring.
Prune the plant back to the desired height and remove any unwanted growth. Be careful not to remove too much foliage, as this can stress the plant, affecting its ability to flower in the next growing season.
Propagation of Adenodolichos exellii Torre
Adenodolichos exellii Torre, commonly known as the Exell's Adenodolichos, is a legume plant species found in tropical Africa. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 4 meters tall with a stem diameter of up to 10 cm. Propagation of Adenodolichos exellii can be done using different methods.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Adenodolichos exellii through seeds is an easy process. Mature seeds can be planted directly in the field or in a pot filled with sandy soil. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 5-7 cm and watered immediately. Germination can take up to 10 days, and it may take between 2-3 years for the plant to mature and start producing seeds.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Adenodolichos exellii can also be done through stem cuttings. Softwood cuttings should be taken from healthy and mature plants in the rainy season. Use a sharp knife to cut a section of the stem with a length of about 10-15 cm, with a node at the base. The cuttings should be inserted into a pot filled with a mixture of soil and vermicompost. Ensure that the cuttings are placed about 2.5 cm deep in the potting medium and watered regularly. After a few weeks, the cuttings will develop roots and can be transplanted to the field.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another method that can be used to propagate Adenodolichos exellii. This method can be used to produce large numbers of plants in a relatively short period. Select a healthy branch with a diameter of about 5-8 cm and remove a ring of bark about 5 cm wide, leaving the inner layer exposed. Apply rooting hormone to the exposed area and cover it with moist sphagnum moss. Secure the moss with a plastic wrap and tie it tightly using a string. After a few weeks, roots will begin to form, and when they are well developed, the rooted branch can be cut and transplanted to the field.
Propagation of Adenodolichos exellii Torre can be done using seeds, cuttings, or air layering. Whichever method is used, it is important to select healthy plants and provide the right conditions for growth. Adenodolichos exellii Torre is a valuable plant species that can be used for food, medicine, and soil conservation, among other uses.
Disease and Pest Management for Adenodolichos exellii Torre
Adenodolichos exellii Torre is generally a healthy and resilient plant, but like any plant, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and how to manage them.
Diseases
Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves and can eventually kill the plant. To manage, remove infected leaves and avoid getting water on the foliage. Spray with fungicide if necessary.
Root Rot: Overwatering and poorly-draining soil can lead to root rot, where the roots become mushy and brittle. To manage, reduce watering and improve soil drainage.
Pests
Aphids: These soft-bodied insects suck sap from the leaves and can cause stunted growth and yellowing. To manage, spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests may not be visible to the naked eye but can cause significant damage to the plant. They cause yellowing and speckling of leaves. To manage, spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap and improve humidity.
Regular inspection and monitoring of the plant can help you catch any potential issues early and manage them before they become severe. Proper care, including good soil drainage, appropriate watering, and providing enough light, can also help the plant stay healthy and avoid issues.
