Overview
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. leiocarpa (A.Rich.) J.B.Gillett, commonly known as Biserrula, is a shrub member of the Fabaceae or legume family. Biserrula is a native to the Mediterranean region and is widely known for its unique biological nitrogen fixation process which makes it an important crop plant in areas with low levels of nitrogen. Biserrula also has a wide range of medicinal uses and its seeds are edible with high nutritional value.
Appearance
Biserrula is an erect, multibranched, and densely hairy plant that can grow up to 60 cm tall. It has compound leaves which are composed of four to ten pairs of leaflets. The leaflets are oblong-shaped and smooth on the upper side, while hairy on the lower side. Biserrula produces yellow flowers which are in clusters on spikes and usually appear from August to October. The fruit produced by the plant is a cylindrical-shaped legume which contains seeds that are oval-shaped and dark brown in color.
Common Names
Biserrula is known by different common names depending on the region. Some of the common names include serradella, silver clover, biserrula, australian serradella, and hairy clover.
Uses
Biserrula has multiple uses, some of which are:
- Crop plant: Biserrula is an important crop in areas with low levels of nitrogen, as it has the unique ability to fix nitrogen biologically. It can be grown as a forage crop, ground cover, or as a seed crop to provide hay or silage.
- Medicinal use: The leaves of Biserrula have been traditionally used in folk medicine as a tonic and to treat ulcers, inflammations, and rheumatism. The plant has also been used to treat digestive disorders and as a diuretic.
- Edible seeds: The seeds produced by Biserrula are edible and are high in protein, fiber, and minerals. They can be eaten raw or cooked and have a slightly sweet taste that makes them a popular addition to salads and other dishes.
Light Requirements
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. leiocarpa requires full sunlight exposure to ensure optimal growth. The plant grows best in areas with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is well adapted to Mediterranean climates and can tolerate temperatures as high as 40 °C during the day and as low as -12 °C at night. Temperatures above 25 °C favor the germination of seeds and seedling development while temperatures below this range may inhibit both processes.
Soil Requirements
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. leiocarpa thrives in well-drained soils with a pH range of 5-8 and can grow in different soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant is also tolerant to salinity and can grow well in soils with high levels of salt. However, the plant does not do well in waterlogged soils, and it is important to ensure good drainage. Supplemental irrigation may be necessary in dry areas to improve plant growth.
Cultivation methods
Biserrula pelecinus is known for its hardiness and adaptability, making it relatively easy to cultivate. It's preferred by livestock farmers due to its high nutritional value for grazing. When growing Biserrula pelecinus, it’s ideal to use well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. After seed germination, ensure that the residual plants' density does not exceed 20/m² as this may affect their growth and limit yield.
Watering needs
Although Biserrula pelecinus is drought-tolerant, regular watering is essential, especially during the growing season when the weather is hot and dry. The plant requires about 400-500mm of water per year; however, this varies depending on the environmental conditions and the specific variety of the plant. When watering, ensure proper soil moisture to encourage healthy plant growth and maximum yields.
Fertilization
Biserrula pelecinus is a nitrogen-fixing plant and does not require additional nitrogenous fertilizers. However, it may need other essential nutrients, such as phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur. An initial application of 20-25kg/ha of phosphorus fertilizer is recommended at planting, while 40-50kg/ha of potassium should be applied during the growing season, particularly in low rainfall areas. A soil test is critical x to ensure the fertilizer's proper application.
Pruning
Biserrula pelecinus is a self-regenerating plant, and annual pruning isn't necessary. However, when pastures become too woody or mature, cutting the plants to around 10cm above the soil can stimulate new growth and maintain healthy pasture productivity. Also, pruning may help remove old or diseased stems, prevent weed propagation, promote better forage quality and increase fresh growth for animals utilizing the pasture.
Propagation of Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. leiocarpa (A.Rich.) J.B.Gillett
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. leiocarpa (A.Rich.) J.B.Gillett can be propagated through various methods such as:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagation for Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. leiocarpa (A.Rich.) J.B.Gillett is through seeds. Harvested seeds must be properly cleaned, and the chaff must be winnowed away. The seeds are usually treated with fungicide to prevent any fungal diseases from affecting the new seedlings. The seeds must be sown in fertile soil, and the area must be kept moist until germination occurs. Seedlings require adequate spacing to allow their roots to develop, and they must be watered at regular intervals until they are established.
Cuttings Propagation
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. leiocarpa (A.Rich.) J.B.Gillett can also be propagated through cuttings, although this method is not as common as seed propagation. Cuttings should be taken from the parent plant, preferably from the new growth tips. The cuttings should be treated with plant hormone to promote root growth and planted in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be sheltered from direct sunlight until they establish roots. Once roots have developed, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots or planting sites.
Division Propagation
Division is another method of propagating Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. leiocarpa (A.Rich.) J.B.Gillett. The plant must be dug out of the ground, and the root system must be carefully divided, ensuring that each section has enough roots to support new growth. Each division should be replanted immediately in fertile soil and watered regularly until established. Divisions should be replanted at the same depth they were in the ground.
Disease Management
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. leiocarpa (A.Rich.) J.B.Gillett is generally considered a hardy plant with low susceptibility to diseases. However, it can still be affected by certain diseases such as leaf spot, root rot, and powdery mildew.
Leaf spot can be managed by avoiding overhead irrigation and ensuring proper spacing between plants to improve air circulation. Infected plant debris should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides can also be used, but it is recommended to consult with a local agricultural extension office for specific recommendations.
Root rot can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering. Affected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Powdery mildew can be prevented by ensuring proper spacing between plants to improve air circulation. Infected plant debris should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides can also be used, but it is recommended to consult with a local agricultural extension office for specific recommendations.
Pest Management
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. leiocarpa (A.Rich.) J.B.Gillett is generally considered resistant to most pests. However, there are a few pests that can affect the plant, such as aphids and caterpillars.
Aphids can be managed by using natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings. Insecticidal soaps can also be used, but it is recommended to consult with a local agricultural extension office for specific recommendations.
Caterpillars can be managed by handpicking and removing them from the plant. Natural predators such as birds and parasitic wasps can also be used to control their population. Insecticides can also be used, but it is recommended to consult with a local agricultural extension office for specific recommendations.
