Overview
Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill also known as Kwenge Rattlepod or Ndona in Swahili language is a low-growing perennial herbaceous legume plant that is indigenous to Africa. It is a member of the Fabaceae family and is considered a rare species.Appearance
Kwenge Rattlepod has a multi—branched stem that grows up to 40cm high and is covered with short greyish-brown hairs. Its leaves are trifoliate and alternate. The leaflets are elliptic and are about 6 cm long by 2.5 cm wide. The upper leaf surface is dark green, while the lower surface is light green and has short hairs. The flowers of Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill are bright yellow and grow at the axils. They are small, measuring only 0.6 to 1 cm in diameter. The pods are cylindrical and covered with short, soft hairs. At maturity, the pods produce several seeds that are about 2 to 3 mm wide and shiny black.Uses
Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill has numerous medicinal properties. It is used in traditional medicine for various ailments such as fever, snakebite, and as a tonic. The plant is also used as a soil conditioner, as it has the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil. The seeds of the plant are used to feed livestock. The plant has potential agricultural use in soil erosion control and the restoration of degraded land.Habitat
Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill is found in the tropics of East Africa. It is found in dry and open habitats such as rocky hillsides and grasslands. The plant prefers well-drained soils and is often found at altitudes of 1100 meters above sea level.Conservation
Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill is considered a rare species, and its population is declining due to habitat loss. As a result, it is listed as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The plant requires protection in its native range, and conservation efforts must be made to prevent its extinction.Growth Conditions for Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill
Light: This plant thrives in full sunlight. Therefore, it is best to place it in areas where it can receive direct sunlight for at least six hours a day. Plants that receive inadequate light tend to grow tall and spindly, resulting in weak stems and leaves.
Temperature: This variety of Crotalaria kwengeensis grows best in warm environments with average temperature ranges between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It can tolerate high temperatures of up to 35°C (95°F) for short periods but cannot survive frost.
Soil: Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. Slightly acidic soils with a pH of between 5.5 to 6.5 are the best for this plant. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged as this can lead to root rot. This plant can also grow well in poor soils with low fertility levels as long as they are well-drained.
Cultivation Methods
Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. It is native to Tanzania and prefers warm and humid conditions. Therefore, it is best to keep this plant in a warm, sheltered location. This plant can be grown from seeds or cuttings, and it is important to avoid planting in cold temperatures. It is a fast-growing plant, and it can be easily propagated.
Watering Needs
This plant requires moderate watering during dry seasons and less during wet seasons. Over-watering the plant can cause root rot, so it is essential to ensure that the soil is well-draining. The plant should be watered deeply once or twice a week in the absence of rain. Avoid watering the plant during very damp or rainy periods as this plant needs a well-drained soil.
Fertilization
Adding a balanced, granular fertilizer to the soil in spring is recommended for optimal growth. Follow the instructions on the package as to how much to apply. Over-fertilizing this plant can cause excessive growth and a weaker structure. Regular feeding with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season can help provide the necessary nutrients.
Pruning
Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill should be pruned annually to remove dead or diseased leaves and stems. Taking off the weaker stems can promote a bushy plant and ensure sunlight reaches all areas of the plant. Taking out the bottom branches of the plant can also improve air circulation. Pruning should be done after flowering in the autumn to avoid pruning off new buds.
Propagation of Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill
Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill, commonly known as the dwarf rattlepod, is a leguminous shrub that is native to East Africa. It is a perennial species that can be propagated by either seed or cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill from seeds is the most common and straightforward method. Seeds are readily available and can be sown in seedbeds or directly in the open field. The following are the steps to propagate crotalaria by seed:
- Collect ripe seeds from the parent plant: Seeds are best collected when the pods have dried and started to split open. Harvest seeds in the morning when they are dry and cool to avoid damage to the delicate seed.
- Prepare the seedbed: The seedbed should be well-prepared and fertile. It should be free from weeds and any other debris to provide the best environment for germination.
- Sow the seeds: Sow the seeds thinly on the surface of the seedbed and cover with a thin layer of soil. Seeds should be sown in rows or broadcast over the bed.
- Maintain the seedlings: Keep the seedbed moist by regular watering. Seedlings should appear in 10-14 days. After germination, thin seedlings to about 15 cm apart to allow adequate growth.
- Transplant the Seedlings: Transplant the seedlings into their final position either in pots or in the field. Transfer them carefully and water well after planting.
Cutting Propagation
Propagation of Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill by cuttings is a more advanced method of propagation. The cuttings can be taken from the parent plant and rooted under favorable conditions. The following are the steps to propagate crotalaria by cuttings:
- Take cuttings from the parent plant: Cuttings should be taken from the parent plant during the growing season. Choose healthy, disease-free stems that are at least 10 cm long.
- Prepare the rooting medium: The rooting medium should be a mixture of sand and well-draining soil. Sterilize the medium to prevent the spread of diseases.
- Dip the cuttings: Dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone solution to increase the chances of rooting.
- Plant the cuttings: Plant the cuttings in pots filled with the rooting medium. Water the pots well and cover with a plastic cover to create a humid environment. Place the pots in a shaded area away from direct sunlight.
- Maintain the Cuttings: Monitor the cuttings regularly to ensure that the rooting medium remains moist. Remove the cover once the cutting has developed roots, and the top growth begins to appear. Once the roots fill the pot, it is ready for transplanting.
Disease Management for Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill
Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill can be affected by various fungal diseases such as leaf spots, stem cankers, and root rots. These diseases can cause serious damage to the plant and affect its growth and development.
To manage these diseases, it is important to practice good cultural practices such as planting disease-free seeds or seedlings, providing adequate drainage, and avoiding overcrowding of plants. Fungicides can also be used to control fungal diseases. However, it is important to read and follow the label directions of the fungicide carefully, as improper use can harm the plant and the environment.
Pest Management for Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill
Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill can also be affected by various pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. These pests can cause serious damage to the plant by sucking sap from leaves, reducing plant vigor, and transmitting diseases.
To manage these pests, it is important to encourage natural enemies such as ladybugs and lacewings that feed on them. Insecticidal soaps and oils can also be used to control pests. However, it is important to read and follow the label directions of the insecticide carefully, as improper use can harm the plant and beneficial insects.
In addition, regular monitoring and early detection of pests and diseases can help to prevent serious damage to Crotalaria kwengeensis R.Wilczek var. parviflora Polhill, and reduce the need for chemical control measures.
