Overview
Crotalaria exilipes Polhill, also known as slender-stem rattlepod, is a flowering plant species in the Fabaceae family. It is a shrubby annual or perennial plant that is native to Africa.
Description
The slender-stem rattlepod plant usually grows up to 30-60 cm tall and has a woody base. Its stem is slender and green to brown in color. The leaves are simple, alternate, linear-lanceolate, and grow up to 3 cm long and 4 mm wide. The plant has yellow flowers that are borne on short, axillary racemes. The fruits are cylindrical, green pods that split open to expose black seeds.
Common Names
Crotalaria exilipes is commonly known as the slender-stem rattlepod, slender clover rattlepod, or slanke-borseldraai in Afrikaans.
Uses
The slender-stem rattlepod plant has several uses in traditional medicine. The plant is believed to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. In some African countries, the leaves and stems of the plant are used to treat respiratory infections, fevers, and rheumatism. The plant is also used as a green manure in agriculture, as it fixes atmospheric nitrogen in the soil.
Despite its medicinal uses, the seeds and foliage of the plant are toxic to both humans and livestock. They contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage and other health problems if ingested in large quantities.
Light requirements
Crotalaria exilipes Polhill prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth. It is a species that is adapted to hot and dry conditions, making it ideal for planting in areas with high light intensity. Lack of enough sunlight can lead to stunted growth and reduced flowering in Crotalaria exilipes.
Temperature requirements
As a tropical species, Crotalaria exilipes Polhill thrives in warm temperatures. The suitable temperature range for the growth and development of Crotalaria exilipes is between 20 °C and 30 °C. It cannot withstand extreme cold weather conditions and frosts which can lead to damage or death of the plant.
Soil requirements
Crotalaria exilipes Polhill can grow in a wide range of soils, including those that are sandy, loamy, or clayey. However, it prefers well-drained soil as it is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged soils. This species also prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. Addition of organic matter such as manure or compost can significantly improve the soil structure and fertility for the plant.
Cultivation
The plant Crotalaria exilipes Polhill is a legume that thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. It requires full sun exposure and prefers sandy or loamy soils.
It is best to germinate the seeds before planting, which can be done in a seedbed or small pots indoors. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist until germination, which usually takes about two weeks.
Once the seedlings are established, they can be transplanted to the garden. It is important to space the plants at least 30cm apart to allow for proper growth.
Watering Needs
Crotalaria exilipes Polhill requires frequent watering, especially during the dry season. They should be watered at least once a week, depending on the climate and soil moisture content. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can cause root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
This plant benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 can be used. It is recommended to fertilize every two to three months during the growing season. Organic fertilizers such as compost and manure can also be used.
Pruning
Crotalaria exilipes Polhill requires little pruning. However, if pruning is necessary, it should be done at the end of the growing season to promote bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged branches. Pinching off spent flowers can also encourage further blooms.
Propagation of Crotalaria exilipes Polhill
Crotalaria exilipes Polhill is commonly known as the dwarf rattlebox. It is a beautiful plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family and is mostly found in South Africa. This plant can be propagated in several ways.
Seeds
Propagation of Crotalaria exilipes Polhill can be easily done by seeds. The plant produces lots of seeds, and they are readily available. Seeds should be sown in spring or summer, and it is important to prepare the soil correctly. The soil should be well-draining and fertile. Seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist.
Cuttings
Crotalaria exilipes Polhill can also be propagated from cuttings. Cuttings are taken from mature plants and should be around 10cm long. The cuttings should be taken in spring or summer and dipped in a rooting hormone before planting. The cutting should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until it develops roots.
Division
Dividing the plant is another effective way to propagate Crotalaria exilipes Polhill. The plant should be divided in late winter or early spring. The root ball should be dug up, and the plant should be gently separated into smaller portions using a sharp knife. The new divisions should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until they establish themselves.
In conclusion, Crotalaria exilipes Polhill is a gorgeous plant that can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and division. With proper care, any of these methods can be successful.
Disease Management
Crotalaria exilipes Polhill is generally a hardy plant with no significant susceptibility to diseases, but it may face the following diseases:
- Root rot: Caused by various fungal species in poorly drained soils, which hinders water uptake by the roots. To manage root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained, and avoid overwatering. If infected, remove and destroy the infected plants and improve soil drainage.
- Leaf spot: Fungal pathogens cause small dark spots on the leaves that may spread and join together causing leaf death. Remove and destroy the infected foliage and avoid overhead watering that could splash fungus spores on the plant. Apply a fungicide according to the instructions on the label if the problem persists.
- Mosaic virus: Symptoms include mottling, twisting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. There is no cure for the virus, so remove and destroy infected plants to prevent the virus's spread.
Pest Management
Crotalaria exilipes Polhill is also relatively pest-resistant, but it may face the following pests:
- Spider mites: They feed by sucking juices from the leaves, causing them to become mottled and yellow. To control spider mites, remove and destroy infested foliage, reduce the dust around the plant, and avoid overfertilization. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil as per the instructions on the label.
- Whiteflies: They suck sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and curl. Whiteflies excrete a sticky substance, leading to the growth of black sooty mold. Prevent whiteflies by reducing dust and controlling weeds around the plant. Use sticky traps to monitor their activity, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Caterpillars: They feed on the foliage, leaving large holes or entire leaf removal. To control caterpillars, pick off and destroy caterpillars by hand, prune damaged leaves when possible, and apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a natural insecticide.
