Overview
Crotalaria dewildemaniana R.Wilczek subsp. dewildemaniana is a species of flowering plant in the Fabaceae family. It is native to Africa, particularly in Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia and Ivory Coast. The plant is known for its striking yellow flowers and has several common names including Wildeman's rattlebox or simply Wildeman's crotalaria.
Description
The plant is an erect annual herb that can grow up to 100 cm tall. It has a single stem that is covered with hairs and narrow leaves that are 2-3cm long. The leaves are alternate and oblong-shaped, with a pointed apex and a rounded or cuneate base. The flowers are arranged in axillary racemes, with up to 20 flowers per inflorescence. The flowers have a typical pea-shaped appearance, with five petals and ten stamens. The yellow flowers are showy and have a diameter of about 2cm.
Uses
Crotalaria dewildemaniana R.Wilczek subsp. dewildemaniana is a medicinal plant used to treat various conditions such as fever, malaria and sleeping sickness. The plant is also used in traditional African medicine to treat inflammation, respiratory infections and skin disorders. In addition, the plant is cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its showy flowers and used as a cover crop to improve soil fertility and to control soil erosion.
Cultivation
Crotalaria dewildemaniana R.Wilczek subsp. dewildemaniana can be propagated from seeds, and it thrives in well-drained soils with plenty of sunlight. The plant can grow in a variety of habitats including forest edges, abandoned fields and roadsides. It is a hardy plant that can withstand drought and is resistant to pests and diseases. The plant is often used as a green manure crop due to its nitrogen-fixing abilities.
Light requirements
The Crotalaria dewildemaniana subsp. dewildemaniana plant requires full sun to partial shade, which means it needs about 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight a day to grow and thrive. It is not well-suited for locations with too much shade.
Temperature requirements
The Crotalaria dewildemaniana subsp. dewildemaniana plant grows best in warm temperatures, with an ideal range between 20 to 35°C (68 to 95°F). It cannot tolerate freezing temperatures and must be kept in a warm, protected environment during the winter months.
Soil requirements
The soil requirements for Crotalaria dewildemaniana subsp. dewildemaniana plant are well-draining, sandy, and loamy soils with a pH range between 5.5 and 7.5. It is important to note that this plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soils, which might result in root rot and eventually lead to plant death.
Cultivation Methods
Crotalaria dewildemaniana R.Wilczek subsp. dewildemaniana, commonly known as Wildeman’s rattlebox, is a flowering plant that requires partial shade to full sun exposure. It can grow up to 4-5 feet tall and is an ideal plant for a mixed border or bed. To cultivate this plant, start by selecting a location that receives partial shade to full sun exposure, and prepare the soil by adding compost or other organic matter. Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in nutrients to provide the plant with the best possible growing conditions.Watering Needs
Crotalaria dewildemaniana R.Wilczek subsp. dewildemaniana requires regular watering until it is established, after which it can tolerate moderate drought. Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. During the hot summer months, increase watering frequency to maintain soil moisture levels. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.Fertilization
Fertilize Crotalaria dewildemaniana R.Wilczek subsp. dewildemaniana during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer every month to support plant growth and flowering. Alternatively, use a slow-release fertilizer at the start of the growing season to provide continuous nutrition over several months.Pruning
Pruning Crotalaria dewildemaniana R.Wilczek subsp. dewildemaniana is not necessary, as the plant naturally develops a compact, bushy habit. However, removing spent flowers and any dead or damaged foliage can improve the plant’s appearance and promote healthy growth. Use a pair of sterilized pruning shears to make clean cuts, and avoid overpruning, as this can stunt the plant’s natural growth. Regular pruning is not required for this species, only occasional clean up.Propagation of Crotalaria dewildemaniana R.Wilczek subsp. dewildemaniana
Crotalaria dewildemaniana R.Wilczek subsp. dewildemaniana can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Crotalaria dewildemaniana R.Wilczek subsp. dewildemaniana can be collected from the mature and dried seed pods. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in a warm and moist environment. The ideal temperature for germination is around 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. The seeds will germinate within 2 to 3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location after they develop their second or third set of leaves.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings are another method of propagating Crotalaria dewildemaniana R.Wilczek subsp. dewildemaniana. Stem cuttings of about 10 to 15 centimeters long can be taken from the parent plant and planted in well-draining soil. The cuttings should be placed in a warm and moist environment with partial shade. The cuttings will root within a few weeks and can be transplanted to their permanent location after they develop strong roots.
Propagation by Division
Division is another method of propagating Crotalaria dewildemaniana R.Wilczek subsp. dewildemaniana. The parent plant can be divided into smaller sections with a sharp and sterile knife. Each section should have a healthy root system and several stems. The divided sections can be planted in well-draining soil in a warm and moist environment. The new plants will establish themselves within a few weeks and can be transplanted to their permanent location after they develop strong roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Crotalaria dewildemaniana R.Wilczek subsp. dewildemaniana
Crotalaria dewildemaniana R.Wilczek subsp. dewildemaniana is a relatively hardy plant that is not prone to frequent pest and disease attacks. However, in certain conditions, this species may become vulnerable to various pests and diseases. Below are some common diseases and pests that can affect Crotalaria dewildemaniana R.Wilczek subsp. dewildemaniana and some ways to manage them.
Diseases
Fusarium Wilt: Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that attacks the vascular system of the plant, leading to wilting, yellowing, and eventually death of the plant. To manage this disease, it is recommended to plant resistant cultivars, maintain proper crop rotation, and avoid over-irrigation.
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes brownish-orange rust spots on the leaves of the plant, leading to reduced vigor and yield. To manage this disease, it is important to remove the affected leaves immediately and employ crop rotation and proper sanitation practices.
Pests
Leaf-eating caterpillars: Caterpillars are common pests that can defoliate the plant in a short period of time. To manage these pests, it is important to handpick them or use insecticides when necessary. Applying insecticides should be done with caution to avoid adverse effects on beneficial insects and the environment.
Spider mites: Spider mites are common pests that cause yellowing of the leaves, wilting, and eventually death of the plant. To manage these pests, it is important to ensure proper sanitation practices, such as removing any weed and plant debris that may harbor the mites. Use of miticides can be appropriate in controlling spider mites.
Aphids: Aphids are common pests that can infest the plants and suck the sap, leading to reduced plant vigor. To manage these pests, it is important to introduce natural predators such as ladybirds, use insecticidal soaps, or blast them with water jets.
Overall, good plant management practices such as proper sanitation, regular scouting, and prompt action can help minimize the chances of pest and disease infestations in Crotalaria dewildemaniana R.Wilczek subsp. dewildemaniana.
