Overview of Centrosema molle Mart. ex Benth.
Centrosema molle Mart. ex Benth. is a species of perennial plant of the family Fabaceae, native to Central and South America. It is commonly known as "Centro" or "Butterfly Pea." The plant is a trailing or twining vine, with stems about 4m in length.
Appearance of Centrosema molle Mart. ex Benth.
The leaves of Centrosema molle are trifoliate, about 6-15cm in length, and have a rounded shape. The flowers of the plant are bright blue in color, about 2-3cm in diameter, and have a distinct butterfly-shaped corolla. The fruit of the butterfly pea is a pod that is about 4-5 cm long and contains up to six seeds.
Uses of Centrosema molle Mart. ex Benth.
The plant has diverse uses in traditional medicine and as a cover crop for soil improvement. It is used to treat various illnesses, including inflammation, fever, parasitic infections, and snake bites. Extracts from the leaves, stem, and roots of the butterfly pea plant have shown antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties. In agriculture, the plant is widely used as green manure, cover crop, and as fodder for livestock. Additionally, Centrosema molle is used in landscaping due to its beautiful flowers.
Light requirements
Centrosema molle Mart. ex Benth. is a tropical legume that requires full sun or partial shade for growth and development. It can grow in shaded areas, but the quality and quantity of its foliage may decline. A minimum of 6 hours of sunlight is ideal for optimal growth and flowering.
Temperature requirements
Centrosema molle Mart. ex Benth. thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. It prefers temperatures between 25-35°C (77-95°F) during the day and 20-25 °C (68-77°F) at night. It can tolerate temperatures outside of this range but may experience growth retardation and even death in extreme conditions.
Soil requirements
Centrosema molle Mart. ex Benth. grows best in well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 5.5 - 7.0. It can tolerate a wide range of soil textures, including sandy loams, clay loams, and sandy clay loams. The plant can grow in soils with low fertility levels but responds positively to soil amendments with organic and inorganic fertilizers.
Cultivation methods for Centrosema molle Mart. ex Benth.
Centrosema molle Mart. ex Benth. is a tropical perennial legume that is easily grown from seeds or cuttings. It is best grown in full sun or partial shade and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, including poor soils, as long as they drain well.
Before planting, loosen the soil to a depth of about 6 inches and add organic matter such as compost. Plant seeds or cuttings about 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart. Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged.
Watering needs
Centrosema molle Mart. ex Benth. requires moderate watering during its growing period, especially during dry spells or droughts. Water thoroughly once a week or as needed to keep the soil moist but avoid overwatering.
When watering, avoid getting the foliage wet as this can encourage fungal growth. Watering early in the morning or late in the day will also reduce the amount of evaporation and ensure that the plant absorbs the water effectively.
Fertilization
Centrosema molle Mart. ex Benth. is a low-maintenance plant and usually does not require much fertilizer. However, during the growing season, it can benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied every four to eight weeks.
Before applying the fertilizer, take a soil sample and get it tested to determine the nutrient content. Based on the results, select a balanced fertilizer that would supplement the soil's lacking nutrients. Spread the fertilizer evenly around the plants and water thoroughly.
Pruning
Pruning is not required for the Centrosema molle Mart. ex Benth. plant. However, you can trim the plant lightly to shape it or remove dead or diseased branches. Prune just above a node or branch, and use sterilized pruning tools to minimize the risk of spreading diseases.
When pruning, remove only the necessary portions and try not to remove more than 30% of the plant at one time. Regular pruning can promote better branching and denser foliage, improving the overall health of the plant.
Propagation of Centrosema molle Mart. ex Benth.
Centrosema molle is a tropical legume plant species that is commonly used for livestock forage and soil improvement. The plant can propagate through both sexual and asexual means.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds are the most common method of propagating Centrosema molle. The seeds of the plant are usually harvested when they become mature, and they are planted in well-prepared beds at a depth of 2-3 cm. Germination occurs within 7 to 14 days, and the seedlings grow rapidly and develop extensive root systems after 6-8 weeks.
Before planting, soaking the seeds in warm water for 24 hours may be necessary to improve germination rates. Also, scarification is sometimes needed to break the seed coat for better penetration of water and air.
Propagation through Cuttings
Centrosema molle can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Using a sharp pruning shear, cuttings of about 10-15 cm are taken from healthy plants. The lowest leaves at the base of the cutting are then removed, and the cutting is planted in prepared soil.
The soil should be kept moist and covered with clear plastic to maintain high humidity levels. The cutting will develop new roots within 2-3 weeks and can be transplanted into the field after 6-8 weeks of growth.
Propagation through Division
Centrosema molle can be propagated through division but is less common compared to seed and cutting propagation methods. When the plant reaches maturity, the root system develops many nodes that can be divided and planted in prepared soil.
Divisions should be made using a sharp knife or spade, ensuring that each section contains roots and at least one stem. The divided parts are then replanted in well-prepared beds and kept moist until new growth appears.
Overall, Centrosema molle can be propagated through various easy and practical methods allowing for the easy expansion of its cultivation.
Disease and Pest Management for Centrosema Molle Mart. ex Benth.
Centrosema molle Mart. ex Benth., commonly known as centro or butterfly pea, is a leguminous plant that is native to Central and South America. While it is generally a hardy plant, there are a few common diseases and pests that may affect it.
Common Diseases
Fungal Diseases:
Fungal diseases are some of the most common issues that affect Centrosema molle. Some of the common fungal diseases include powdery mildew, root rot, and rust.
Powdery Mildew:
Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, it is recommended that you prune any affected parts of the plant and treat it with an appropriate fungicide.
Root Rot:
Root rot occurs when the roots of the plant become infected with a pathogenic fungus. To prevent this disease, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid over-watering. If the plant is already infected, consider using a fungicide.
Rust:
Rust appears as orange-red spores on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, prune any infected areas, avoid overhead watering, and use a fungicide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Caterpillars:
Caterpillars are common pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. To manage an infestation, consider using an insecticide or manually removing the caterpillars from the plant.
Whiteflies:
Whiteflies are small, winged insects that can cause damage to the plant by sucking its sap. To control the pests, it is recommended that you use sticky traps or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings to the garden. You could also use insecticidal soap to prevent the whiteflies from spreading.
Leafhoppers:
Leafhoppers can also cause significant damage to the plant. They typically feed on the underside of the leaves, causing discoloration and wilting. To prevent and control the infestation, consider using insecticidal soap or introducing natural predators such as spiders and wasps to the garden.
In conclusion, Centrosema molle Mart. ex Benth. is a hardy plant but like any other plant, it can be affected by pests and diseases. Consistent care and management are key to keeping the plant healthy and vibrant.
