Overview of Derris elliptica auct.
Derris elliptica auct. is a plant species belonging to the family Fabaceae. It is commonly known as tuba or cube root, and originates from Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. The plant grows in tropical climates and thrives in swampy areas and wetlands.
Appearance of Derris elliptica auct.
Derris elliptica auct. is a woody climbing shrub that can grow up to 20 meters in height. It has compound leaves that are pinnate with 7–15 leaflets. The leaflets are oblong or elliptical, 5–15 cm long and 2–6 cm wide. The flowers are small, pale purple or white, and grow in dense spikes that are 10–20 cm long. The fruit is a flat, elongated pod that is 5–10 cm long and 2–3 cm wide, containing one to several seeds.
Uses of Derris elliptica auct.
Derris elliptica auct. has various uses in traditional medicine and agriculture. The root of the plant is known for its insecticidal properties, and is commonly used as a natural pesticide. It contains rotenone, a powerful insecticide that targets pests such as mites, ticks, and lice. Due to its toxic effects, it is also used to control fish populations in aquaculture.
The plant also has medicinal properties. The root contains flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects. It is used to treat various ailments such as fever, edema, and rheumatism. The plant's stem and leaves are used to treat skin diseases, such as eczema and psoriasis. In addition, the plant has cultural significance among certain indigenous communities, who use it in traditional rituals and ceremonies.
Light requirements
Derris elliptica auct. grows well under full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and flowering.
Temperature requirements
The ideal temperature range for Derris elliptica auct. growth is between 20°C to 30°C. The plant cannot tolerate frost and extreme temperatures. It requires a well-drained soil that helps to maintain a consistent moisture level. The plant can thrive in hot and humid conditions with adequate watering.
Soil requirements
Derris elliptica auct. prefers a well-drained soil that is slightly acidic with a pH of 5.5 to 6.0. The soil should be fertile and rich in organic matter. The plant can grow well in sandy or loamy soil that has good drainage. Avoid waterlogged soils that can cause root rot.
Cultivation
Derris elliptica, also known as tuba or cube root, is a tropical plant that thrives in warm and humid conditions. It is best grown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers partial shade to full sun, which means it can be grown in a variety of settings, including containers and gardens.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is crucial for the health of Derris elliptica. The plant prefers consistently moist soil but can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. To ensure proper watering, it is recommended to water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the climate and soil conditions. Additionally, it is best to water the plant in the morning to allow the foliage to dry off during the day.
Fertilization
Derris elliptica can benefit from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and blooming. The plant responds well to a well-balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is best to apply the fertilizer in the spring and summer, which are the periods of active growth.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and size of Derris elliptica. The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall, but the height can be controlled through regular pruning. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. It is best to remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any crossing branches that can interfere with the plant's growth. Additionally, pruning can help to promote bushier growth and increase blooming.
Propagation of Derris elliptica
Derris elliptica, also known as tuba root or lonchocarpus, can be propagated in several ways including seed propagation, stem cutting, and root cutting.
Seed Propagation
Seeds from ripe pods can be collected and sown in a planting medium consisting of a mixture of sand and soil or compost. The planting medium should be kept moist but not waterlogged to prevent the seeds from rotting. Seedlings will emerge in about 3-4 weeks and can be transplanted into individual pots once they are big enough to handle.
Stem Cutting
Stem cutting is another method of propagating Derris elliptica. Select a healthy stem from which to cut the stem cutting. Cut the stem at a slant, just below a leaf node, and remove any lower leaves. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone and insert it into the planting medium. The cuttings should be watered regularly, but not excessively watered. The root system will begin to develop, and the new plant will begin to grow in about 4-6 weeks.
Root Cutting
To propagate through root cutting, cut the roots of an existing plant into sections of equal length. Each section should have at least one bud. Plant the sections in a good quality potting mix and water them regularly. Each cut section will grow into a new plant over time, producing a clone of the original plant. It takes around three months for the plant to establish its roots adequately, and they should be carefully monitored during this period.
Disease Management for Derris elliptica auct.
Preventing diseases is the most effective way of managing them. Here are some disease management practices for Derris elliptica:
- Plant in well-drained soil.
- Avoid watering too much or too little.
- Remove any diseased plant parts as soon as you notice them.
Some common diseases that might affect Derris elliptica are:
- Leafspots
- Canker
- Rust
To manage these diseases, here are some practices:
- Spray with a fungicide like copper-based fungicides.
- Apply a protective fungicide before the rainy season.
- Remove and dispose of any infected plant materials.
Pest Management for Derris elliptica auct.
Here are some pest management practices that can be followed for Derris elliptica:
- Applying insecticidal soaps or pesticides can help manage pests.
- Regularly inspection the plant for pests and taking early action can avoid a more significant infestation.
- Keeping the planting area tidy and free from debris will discourage pest infestation.
Some common pests that might affect Derris elliptica are:
- Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.)
- Leaf-eating caterpillars
- Aphids
To manage these pests, here are some practices:
- Apply a pesticide to the soil to targets nematodes.
- Pluck and destroy any caterpillars you spot on the plant.
- Use insecticidal soap or a pesticide to ward off aphids.
