Overview
Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula (Kunth) Rudd, also known as the sensitive partridge pea, is a herbaceous legume that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This lovely plant is known for its unusual foliage that reacts to touch. Native to South America, Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula is now commonly found in several other regions, including the Southern United States, the Caribbean, and Mexico. It is widely cultivated in many tropical and subtropical regions for its medicinal and ornamental values.
Appearance
Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula is a small to medium-sized plant, growing up to 30 cm tall. It has small, compound leaves with several pairs of leaflets that fold up when disturbed. The flowers of the plant are small, bright yellow, and arranged in pairs or clusters on long, slender, branching stems. The fruits of Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula are small, brownish-black, flattened and bean-like, with several round, black seeds inside.
Uses
Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula has many medicinal and ornamental uses. The plant is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, inflammation, stomach issues, and respiratory problems. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it useful in treating arthritis and reducing swelling. The plant's decoction is also used in treating coughs, bronchitis, and asthma. Its ornamental value stems from its unique foliage, which makes it a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape. The plant is also known to attract birds and butterflies.
Common Names
Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula has several common names, including the sensitive partridge pea, wild sensitive plant, touch-me-not, and shameplant. The leaves of the plant fold up when touched, hence the name touch-me-not.
In conclusion, Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula is a unique plant with many benefits. Its medicinal and ornamental uses make it a highly valued plant in many regions worldwide. Whether in a garden or in the wild, the sensitive partridge pea is a captivating plant that draws attention and admiration from many.
Light Conditions
The Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula (Kunth) Rudd requires full sun to partial shade for healthy growth and development. Therefore, it is advisable to grow the plant in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Excessive sunlight exposure can also affect the plant, so placement under partial shade could be beneficial in areas with high-intensity sunlight.
Temperature Conditions
The Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula (Kunth) Rudd is a warm-season plant that thrives in tropical and subtropical regions with warm to hot temperatures. It can grow in temperatures ranging from 60-80°F (15-27°C) comfortably. Frost or extremely cold temperatures can damage or kill the plant, and it is vital to protect it from cold draft during cold months.
Soil Requirements
The Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula (Kunth) Rudd grows well in fertile, well-drained soils that are high in organic matter. The pH of the soil should range from 6.0-7.5, which means slightly acidic and mildly alkaline soils are suitable. It is not advisable to plant the Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula (Kunth) Rudd in heavy clay soils, which can cause damage and restrict root development due to poor aeration.
Cultivation of Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula (Kunth) Rudd
Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula (Kunth) Rudd, commonly known as the sensitive plant, is a tropical perennial legume native to South America. The plant prefers to grow in full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-draining, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. It can be propagated from seed or cuttings.
Watering Needs
The sensitive plant requires regular watering during the growing season, typically from spring to summer. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is advisable to allow the soil to dry slightly between watering. In the winter, reduce watering to once a week or even less as the plant enters a period of dormancy.
Fertilization
During the growing season, the sensitive plant will benefit from regular fertilization. Fertilizers high in nitrogen can encourage more foliage growth and flowering. Apply a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks according to instructions. It is important not to over-fertilize as this may cause the plant to grow quickly and become leggy.
Pruning
To keep the sensitive plant looking tidy and healthy, it is advisable to prune it regularly. Regular pruning will encourage new growth and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy. Pinch back the growing tips of the stems once they reach about six inches long. Use a sharp pair of pruning shears to cut back any dead or damaged stems as soon as they are noticed. Regular pruning will also help prevent the sensitive plant from becoming invasive.
Propagation of Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula (Kunth) Rudd
Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula (Kunth) Rudd, commonly known as the "sensitive joint vetch," is a leguminous plant that originates from South America. The plant has an erect, bushy growth habit with trailing stems that grow up to a length of 2-3m. The plant bears yellow flowers, which are followed by green pods that contain the seeds.
Propagation Methods
Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula (Kunth) Rudd can be propagated through various methods such as seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula (Kunth) Rudd. The seeds are collected from mature pods, and then they should be cleaned and dried. Prior to sowing, the seeds must be soaked in water for 24 hours. This process helps to soften the hard seed coat, which allows the seed to germinate more easily.
The seeds can be sown directly in the field, or they can be raised in a nursery bed. If sowing directly in the field, the seeds should be sown in rows, and they should be covered with a thin layer of soil. Seeds can be planted during the rainy season when the soil is moist, which favors the germination of the seeds.
If raising the seeds in a nursery bed, a mixture of soil and organic matter should be used. The seeds should be sown thinly, covered with a thin layer of soil, and kept moist. The seedlings should be pricked out and transplanted to the field when they reach a height of 10-15cm.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula (Kunth) Rudd is possible through stem cuttings. The stem cuttings can be taken from the parent plant during the rainy season. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants, and they should be approximately 15-20cm long.
The cuttings should be planted in a mixture of soil and organic matter, and they should be kept moist. Rooting usually occurs within 2-3 weeks, and the rooted cuttings can be transplanted to the field.
Overall, both seed propagation and vegetative propagation are effective methods of propagating Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula (Kunth) Rudd, providing producers with different options depending on their resources and circumstances.
Pest and disease management for Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula (Kunth) Rudd
Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula (Kunth) Rudd is a legume and as such, it can be affected by several diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect this plant and how to manage them:
Diseases
1. Fusarium wilt
This fungal disease causes wilting and yellowing of the leaves and eventually death of the plant. The first line of defense against Fusarium wilt is to plant disease-resistant varieties. If you suspect Fusarium wilt in your plants, remove and destroy the infected plants and do not replant in the same location for at least two years.
2. Root rot
Root rot is caused by several types of fungi and causes the plant to wilt, yellow, and die. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid over-watering. Applying a fungicide can also be helpful in managing root rot.
3. Bacterial blight
Bacterial blight causes necrotic lesions on the leaves and stem and can lead to defoliation and stunted growth. There are no chemical controls for bacterial blight, but it can be managed by removing and destroying infected plants, improving cultural practices, and planting disease-resistant varieties.
Pests
1. Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from plants and excrete honeydew, which attracts ants and fungi. To manage aphids on Aeschynomene sensitiva Sw. var. hispidula (Kunth) Rudd, you can apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. Encouraging natural predators like ladybugs can also help reduce aphid populations.
2. Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny mites that suck sap from leaves, causing a stippled appearance and, in severe infestations, defoliation. Spider mites can be managed by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil. Increasing humidity around the plants can also help deter spider mites.
3. Slugs and snails
Slugs and snails can chew holes in the leaves and leave slimy trails. To manage slugs and snails, you can handpick them in the early morning or evening when they are active, apply slug bait, or use copper tape or mesh around plantings to deter them.
