Plant Description
Crotalaria globifera E.Mey. var. pubescens E.Mey. is an evergreen perennial shrub native to South Africa. It is a member of the Fabaceae family and is commonly referred to as the velvet-leaf rattlepod.
General Appearance
The velvet-leaf rattlepod typically grows up to 1.5 meters tall and can spread up to 1.5 meters wide. It has long, slender branches with velvety green leaves that are oval-shaped and pointed at the tip. The flowers of the plant are bright yellow and have a distinct rattling sound when the seed pods are shaken.
Uses
The velvet-leaf rattlepod is primarily used as an ornamental plant, often grown in gardens and landscapes for its attractive yellow flowers. However, the plant also has some medicinal uses, as its leaves and seeds have been used in traditional African medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, inflammation, and coughs.
Additionally, the plant has been used as a forage crop for livestock, due to its high protein content. It is also used in soil conservation, as it is known to have a deep root system that can help prevent soil erosion.
Light Requirements
Crotalaria globifera E.Mey. var. pubescens E.Mey. grows best in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures ranging between 20 to 25°C. It cannot tolerate frost and requires protection from cold temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Crotalaria globifera E.Mey. var. pubescens E.Mey. prefers well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. It grows best in fertile soils with high organic matter content. The plant is tolerant of slightly sandy or clayey soils as long as they are well-draining and moist.
Cultivation methods:
Crotalaria globifera E.Mey. var. pubescens E.Mey. is a native to South Africa and is commonly found in regions with relatively high rainfall. It prefers well-drained soil, high temperatures, and full sunlight exposure. They can be propagated through seeds and cuttings. It's important to note that the plant can be toxic when ingested, so it's advisable to use gloves when handling it.
Watering needs:
The plant requires moderate watering during its active growth period, which is usually during the warmer months of the year. However, it's essential to ensure that the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. During the dormant period, which is usually during the colder months, the plant needs very little watering, as the leaves will fall off.
Fertilization:
Crotalaria globifera E.Mey. var. pubescens E.Mey. is a leguminous plant and can fix nitrogen from the atmosphere through its root nodules. Therefore, it requires little external fertilization. However, you can apply a well-balanced fertilizer during the active growth stage to provide adequate nutrients for the plant's growth.
Pruning:
The plant does not require extensive pruning, but you can pinch back the tips of the plants to encourage bushier growth and a more attractive shape. Also, it's advisable to remove any unhealthy or dead branches or leaves as soon as possible to prevent the spread of any diseases or pests.
Propagation of Crotalaria globifera E.Mey. var. pubescens E.Mey.
Crotalaria globifera E.Mey. var. pubescens E.Mey. can be propagated through various methods:
Seed propagation
The plant produces plenty of seeds that can be collected after the fruits ripen. The seeds must be dried in the shade for a few days before sowing. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil moist till germination occurs. Place the pot in bright, indirect sunlight and maintain temperature between 20-25°C. Transplant the seedlings to their permanent location after they grow 2-3 sets of leaves.
Cuttings propagation
The plant can be propagated through softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings. Take a cutting of approximately 6 inches length with at least one healthy leaf node. Dip the lower end of the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and put the pot in indirect sunlight. After about a month, the cuttings should start developing roots. Transplant them to their permanent location once they have grown enough to handle.
Division propagation
Crotalaria globifera E.Mey. var. pubescens E.Mey. can be propagated through division if the plant has grown large enough. Carefully lift the plant from the soil and use a sharp knife or garden shears to divide the plant into individual sections. Each section must contain equal amounts of roots and shoots. Plant these divided sections in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist till they establish. Transplant them to their desired location once they have grown sufficiently.
Disease and Pest Management for Crotalaria globifera E.Mey. var. pubescens E.Mey.
Crotalaria globifera E.Mey. var. pubescens E.Mey., commonly known as rattlepod, is a member of the legume family. It is a fast-growing herbaceous plant that is native to South Africa and is commonly used as a cover crop and forage plant. Like any other plant species, Crotalaria globifera is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can significantly impact its growth and productivity. Effective management of these pests and diseases is therefore essential to ensure the plant thrives and produces optimally.
Common diseases affecting Crotalaria globifera E.Mey. var. pubescens E.Mey.
Root Rot Diseases: Root rots caused by soil-borne fungal pathogens are common in Crotalaria globifera, especially when grown in poorly drained soils or under high moisture conditions. Symptoms of root rot include stunted growth, yellowing and wilting of leaves, and blackened roots. To manage root rot diseases, avoid overwatering, improve soil drainage, and ensure good crop rotation practices. Application of fungicides may also be necessary, especially when the disease is severe.
Fusarium Wilt: Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. tracheiphilum is a fungal pathogen that causes wilt disease in Crotalaria globifera. The disease is characterized by sudden wilting and death of the plant, yellowing of leaves, and vascular discoloration. To manage Fusarium wilt, avoid planting the crop in fields with a history of the disease, use clean planting materials, practice crop rotation, and apply fungicide treatments.
Leaf Spot: Cercospora crotalariae is a fungal pathogen that causes leaf spot disease in Crotalaria globifera. Symptoms of the disease include the appearance of small, circular yellow or brown spots on the leaves, which later become larger and merge to form irregularly shaped lesions. To manage leaf spot, avoid overhead irrigation, maintain good crop hygiene, and apply fungicides when necessary.
Common pests affecting Crotalaria globifera E.Mey. var. pubescens E.Mey.
Nematodes: Crotalaria globifera is highly susceptible to root-knot nematodes, which cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and reduced yield. To manage nematode infestations, practice crop rotation, maintain good soil hygiene, and use resistant cultivars. Application of nematicides may also be necessary, especially in severe infestations.
Aphids: Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause significant damage to Crotalaria globifera. Infested plants will exhibit stunted growth, deformed leaves, and discolored foliage. To manage aphids, use insecticides, practice crop rotation, and introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Cutworms: Cutworms are nocturnal caterpillars that feed on Crotalaria globifera's stem, causing significant damage to the plant. To manage cutworms, use insecticides, install physical barriers such as collars around the plant's stem, and practice good crop hygiene.
In summary, Crotalaria globifera is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can affect its productivity. Effective pest and disease management strategies include proper crop rotation, maintenance of good crop hygiene, use of resistant cultivars, and application of appropriate fungicides and insecticides when necessary.
