Introduction
Chamaecrista mwangokae Gereau & G.M.Walters is a species of plant that is found in sub-Saharan Africa. The plant belongs to the Fabaceae family, which includes legumes and pea plants. It was first discovered in Tanzania in 1994 by Carol Gracie and later described as a new species in 1997 by Gereau and Walters.
Common names
Chamaecrista mwangokae is commonly known as the Mwango Mimosa, in reference to the area where it was first found. However, it does not have a widely recognized common name.
Appearance
Chamaecrista mwangokae is a small prostrate or decumbent herb, measuring only about 20 cm in length. It has a slender stem that is brown and hairy. The leaves are pinnate, with about 20-30 pairs of oblong to linear leaflets, which are about 4-8 mm long. The flowers are yellow, and they grow in clusters at the end of short stalks, which arise from the leaf axils. The fruit is a straight, narrow pod that is about 5-8 cm long.
Uses
The Chamaecrista mwangokae plant has not been widely studied for its uses, but like other members of the Fabaceae family, it is assumed to have some medicinal properties. In traditional African medicine, some of the related plants have been used to treat various ailments, including fevers, constipation, and respiratory illnesses. The seeds of some species of Chamaecrista are sometimes ground into flour, which is then used to make porridge or added to soups and stews. However, it is not certain if this particular species has any such uses as little is known about it.
Light Requirements
Chamaecrista mwangokae typically thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. This plant requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight daily to survive under optimal growth conditions. Shady areas should be avoided as they may stunt the growth of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
Chamaecrista mwangokae is native to tropical regions and can tolerate moderate to high temperatures. This plant requires a temperature range of 20-35°C for optimal growth. Temperatures below 15°C can cause stunted growth, leaf drop and eventually lead to death.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements for Chamaecrista mwangokae are well-draining soils that have good moisture retention capabilities. This plant prefers slightly acidic soils with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. Sandy loam or loamy soil with good organic matter content is optimal for growth. When planting, ensure that the soil is well-aerated and fertile. Adding organic matter such as compost or manure can help improve soil fertility and structure, and provide a continuous supply of nutrients that the plant requires.
Cultivation Methods
Chamaecrista mwangokae Gereau & G.M.Walters is a worriless plant to grow due to its low-maintenance nature. The plant thrives in a wide range of soil types as long as the soil is well-draining. It prefers a location with full sun exposure, but it can also grow in areas with partial shade. The recommended planting time is during the spring season when the danger of frost has passed.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Chamaecrista mwangokae Gereau & G.M.Walters vary depending on the environmental conditions. The plant requires moderate watering, especially during the warm seasons when the soil is dry. The soil must be moist but not overly wet as this may cause the roots to rot. Consistent watering in the first few weeks after planting ensures proper establishment.
Fertilization
Chamaecrista mwangokae Gereau & G.M.Walters does not need much fertilizer, but you can add some slow-release fertilizer to the soil during planting. You can also feed the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer every four weeks during the growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilize the plant as this may cause excessive growth and reduce the number of flowers produced.
Pruning
Pruning is not essential for the Chamaecrista mwangokae Gereau & G.M.Walters plant, but you can remove dead flowers and stems to encourage the growth of new ones. You can also prune the plant to maintain its shape and size. Ensure that you sterilize your pruning tools before use to avoid the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Chamaecrista mwangokae
The propagation of Chamaecrista mwangokae can be done through both sexual and asexual methods. However, the most common propagation method is through seed propagation.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Chamaecrista mwangokae can be sown directly into well-drained soil in the garden or in containers. The ideal time for sowing seeds is during the rainy season, between May and July. It is recommended to sow fresh seeds, as they have a higher germination rate and are easier to handle.
Before sowing the seeds, the soil should be well-prepared, loosened and raked to remove any rocks, twigs or debris. The planting location should receive full to partial sunlight and have good drainage. The seeds can be sown at a depth of not more than 2 cm and spaced 15-20 cm apart.
After sowing, the soil should be lightly firmed to ensure good soil-to-seed contact, and watered with a gentle spray to avoid displacement of the seeds. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged during the germination period, which typically takes 2-3 weeks.
Once the seedlings have emerged, they should be thinned out or transplanted to allow for proper growth and development. The seedlings can be transplanted after 4-6 weeks, when they have developed a few sets of true leaves. They should be handled with care to avoid damaging the roots.
Asexual Propagation
Chamaecrista mwangokae can also be propagated through vegetative means, such as stem cuttings, layering or division. However, these methods are less common and may require more effort and skill.
Stem cuttings can be taken from healthy plants during the growing season, preferably in spring or early summer. The cuttings should be at least 10 cm long, with 2-3 sets of leaves and a node at the base. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained soil mix. They should be kept in a warm and humid environment until they have rooted and new growth appears.
Layering involves bending a stem to the ground and burying a portion of it, while leaving the tip exposed. The buried portion should be wounded and treated with a rooting hormone to encourage rooting. Once roots have formed, the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to a new location.
Division can be done by separating the roots of an established plant into two or more portions, each with a growing stem and roots. The separated portions can be replanted and cared for as individual plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Chamaecrista mwangokae Gereau & G.M.Walters
Chamaecrista mwangokae Gereau & G.M.Walters, also known as Mwangoka's sensitive pea, is a small herbaceous plant of the legume family that grows in rocky areas. While the plant is generally healthy, it may sometimes face challenges from pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Leaf Spots
Leaf spots are the most common disease that affects Chamaecrista mwangokae Gereau & G.M.Walters. They are caused majorly by fungi, including Cercospora and Septoria. The disease manifests in yellow to brown spots with a diameter of 1-2mm on the leaves. As the infection spreads, the spots increase in size and lead to severe defoliation. The best way to manage leaf spots is to practice good plant hygiene, including removing and destroying infected leaves and avoiding overhead watering.
Root Rots
Root rots are caused by Phytophthora and Pythium pathogens. These pathogens damage the root system, leading to stunted growth, leaf yellowing, and wilting. Infected plants may eventually die. To control root rot, avoid overwatering, provide good drainage, and use pathogen-free potting soil. It is also recommended to rotate crops.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from the leaves, leading to distorted growth, yellowing, and premature leaf drop. To control spider mites, rinse plant leaves with a strong jet of water every few days. You can also introduce predatory mites or ladybugs into the plant to feed on spider mites. Chemical control should be used as a last resort and only when necessary.
Scales
Scales are tiny insects that attach themselves to leaves and stems, sucking the plant's sap and depleting its nutrients. They appear as small, circular bumps on the plant's surface, and their infestation leads to stunted growth, leaf yellowing, and premature leaf drop. To control scales, first inspect the plant and remove affected leaves and stems carefully. Then, apply horticultural oil to suffocate the remaining scales. Repeat the process after two weeks to eliminate newly hatched scales.
