Overview of Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus, commonly known as B. pelecinus or biserrula, is a small annual plant of the Fabaceae (legume) family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, including the countries of Spain, Greece, and Turkey, and has since spread to other parts of the world, such as Australia and North Africa.
Common Names
B. pelecinus is known by a variety of common names, including biserrula, biserrula clover, and peaflower biserrula.
Uses
Due to its adaptability and ability to produce high-quality forage, B. pelecinus is grown in many countries as a valuable pasture and fodder crop for livestock. It can also be used in erosion control, reclamation of degraded soils, and as a cover crop in vineyards and orchards.
General Appearance
B. pelecinus is a small, prostrate plant that typically grows to a height of 10 to 20 cm. Its leaves are trifoliate, and its small flowers are yellow and pea-shaped. The plant produces small, cylindrical seed pods that are covered in hooked hairs, giving them a rough, hairy texture. These hooks allow the seed pods to cling to the fur of passing animals, ensuring effective seed dispersal. Biserrula is generally a hardy plant, able to tolerate poor soil conditions and periods of drought.
Growth Conditions of Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus is a herbaceous annual plant that is typically found in southern Europe and northern Africa. The plant is known for its ability to fix nitrogen, and it is often used as a forage crop for livestock.
Light Requirements
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the plant will grow best if it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. In low light conditions, the plant may become leggy and weak, and it may not produce as much foliage or flowers.
Temperature Requirements
B. pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus is a warm-season plant that performs best in climates with hot summers and mild winters. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 20-30°C. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 5°C and as high as 40°C for short periods, but prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures may cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils with a pH range of 6.5-8.0. The plant is not tolerant of waterlogged or heavy clay soils, and it may suffer from root rot or other diseases in poorly drained conditions. The plant can benefit from the addition of organic matter to the soil to improve fertility and water retention.
Cultivation Methods for Biserrula Pelecinus L. subsp. Pelecinus
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus is a hardy, annual pasture legume that is easy to grow in well-draining soil with good sun exposure. It prefers a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 and is best grown in areas that receive an annual rainfall of between 400mm and 800mm. It can be sown directly into the ground in both autumn and spring.
Watering Needs for Biserrula Pelecinus L. subsp. Pelecinus
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus requires regular watering, especially during germination and early growth stages. It is important to avoid overwatering the plant, as it does not grow well in waterlogged roots. The best way to water Biserrula pelecinus is through regular, light watering to keep the soil moist.
Fertilization for Biserrula Pelecinus L. subsp. Pelecinus
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus requires balanced fertilization to promote healthy plant growth and flowering. The best way to fertilize Biserrula pelecinus is through the application of nitrogen-rich fertilizers that can aid in the formation of high-quality forage. It is best to fertilize early in the season to ensure proper plant growth.
Pruning for Biserrula Pelecinus L. subsp. Pelecinus
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus does not require extensive pruning. However, it is best to periodically cut back the plant to encourage bushier growth. Pruning also helps to keep the plant healthy by preventing disease and promoting good air circulation. It is best to use sharp shears when pruning to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus is a self-regenerating perennial legume native to the Mediterranean region. It is an important forage crop and its seeds are rich in tannins that can provide health benefits to animals and humans.
Propagation by Seeds
The most common method of propagating Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus is through seeds. The seeds should be collected from plants that have reached maturity, which is typically toward the end of summer. After collection, the seeds should be cleaned of any debris and stored in a cool, dry place until planting.
The seeds can be planted directly into the soil, or they can be started in pots or trays and later transplanted. If planting directly into the soil, the seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1cm, and about 2-3 seeds per hole. If starting in pots or trays, the seeds can be sown individually and covered lightly with soil.
The seeds should be kept moist until germination, which typically takes about 7-10 days. Once the seedlings have developed a few leaves, they can be transplanted to their final location.
Propagation by Division
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the crown of an established plant into smaller sections, each with its own set of roots.
To propagate by division, the plant should be dug up carefully, ensuring that as much of the roots as possible are kept intact. The crown of the plant can then be separated into smaller sections using a sharp knife or shears.
Each section should then be planted in its own hole, at the same depth as the original plant. The soil should be kept moist until the plant becomes established.
Propagation by Cuttings
Although less common, Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus can also be propagated by cuttings. This method involves taking a stem or shoot from an established plant and encouraging it to develop roots.
To propagate by cuttings, select a stem or shoot that is about 10-15cm in length and has several leaves. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem, leaving only a few at the top. The cutting should then be planted in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix.
The cutting should be kept moist until roots develop, which typically takes about 4-6 weeks. Once roots have developed, the cutting can be transplanted to its final location.
Common Diseases
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus may suffer from various diseases, including root rot, powdery mildew, and blackspot.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by various fungi and can cause the roots to decay. This can severely affect the plant's nutrient uptake and cause wilting, yellowing, or browning of the plant's leaves. To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid over-watering. Use of fungicides might be necessary in severe cases.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating over the plant's leaves. It can hinder photosynthesis and cause growth to be stunted. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove any infected plant parts immediately. Fungicides can also be used to manage the disease.
Blackspot
Blackspot is a fungal disease that causes black spots to appear on the plant's leaves, which can lead to defoliation and weaken the plant. It thrives in warm, wet conditions and can be managed by ensuring good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and removing infected plant parts. Fungicides can also help manage blackspot.
Common Pests
Biserrula pelecinus L. subsp. pelecinus can be attacked by insects like aphids, thrips, and caterpillars.
Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the plant's sap and can cause stunting of the plant's growth. They also produce a sticky substance called honeydew which can attract ants. To manage aphids, use of insecticidal soap or neem oil is effective. Use of a strong jet of water to wash them off the plant is also a non-toxic method.
Thrips
Thrips are tiny, slender insects that can cause yellow mottling or silvering of the plant's leaves. They also feed on the plant's sap. Yellow sticky traps can be used to attract and kill thrips. Biocontrol agents like predatory mites and nematodes can also help manage thrips, while the use of insecticidal soap is effective against small populations.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies, and they can cause considerable damage to the plant's leaves. They can be managed by introducing natural predators, such as birds or parasitic wasps. Use of Bacillus thuringiensis, a natural bacterium pesticide, can also be effective at controlling caterpillars.
