Overview
Derris scheffleri Harms is a flowering plant that belongs to the legume family, Fabaceae. This plant is native to Africa, specifically found in Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo.
Common Names
Derris scheffleri Harms is commonly known as African Derris, African Defense Vine, and Scheffler's Derris.
General Appearance
The plant is a woody climber that has a vigorous growth habit. It can grow up to 15 meters in height and has a stem size of up to 8 cm in diameter. The leaves are pinnate and can reach up to 14 cm in length, while the flowers are pink and appear in clusters. The fruit produced is a pod-like structure that contains seeds.
Uses
Derris scheffleri Harms has a few medicinal uses, especially in traditional African medicine. The plant possesses insecticidal and antifungal properties and is used to treat some parasitic infections. Additionally, the bark is used to treat diarrhea and respiratory infections. Another application is rope making, where the plant's stems can be woven into ropes due to its strength and flexibility.
Light Requirements
Derris scheffleri Harms typically thrives in a partially shaded environment. It requires filtered or diffused sunlight, but not direct exposure to the sun. Too much sunlight can cause browning and leaf damage. It is essential to ensure that the plant receives adequate light conditions for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Derris scheffleri Harms is between 18? to 26? in the daytime and 13? to 18? at night. This plant cannot tolerate extreme temperatures that are too hot or too cold. In cooler conditions, the plant growth may slow down, and it may even become dormant. Therefore, maintaining optimal temperature conditions is crucial for the plant's growth and survival.
Soil Requirements
Derris scheffleri Harms grows well in well-draining soils with a slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water-holding capacity. The ideal soil mix can be achieved by combining regular potting soil with perlite or sand. It is essential to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.
Cultivation Methods for Derris scheffleri Harms
Derris scheffleri Harms can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, and root cuttings. The best time to propagate the plant is during the spring season, and it is recommended to use well-draining soil for this purpose. The plant thrives well in partial shade and requires a good amount of space to grow. Hence, it is essential to space out seedlings or propagated plants at least 6-8 feet apart.
Watering Needs for Derris scheffleri Harms
Watering is crucial in the growth process of Derris scheffleri Harms. The plant requires consistent watering to promote healthy growth but does not do well when the soil is waterlogged. Ideally, the soil should be kept moist, but not too wet, and the frequency of watering should be adjusted based on the weather conditions and the drying rate of the soil.
Fertilization for Derris scheffleri Harms
Applying fertilizer periodically can help improve the growth and overall health of the Derris scheffleri Harms plant. It requires a balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. The amount of fertilizer to be used depends on the size of the plant, and it should be applied during the active growth period, usually around springtime.
Pruning for Derris scheffleri Harms
Pruning is essential to ensure that the Derris scheffleri Harms plant remains in good shape and reduces the spread of diseases. To avoid damage to the plant, it is recommended to use clean, sharp pruners. The best time to prune is during the late winter or early spring before the new growth starts. The process involves the removal of any dead, diseased, or damaged branches, and thinning out densely packed areas of foliage to promote better air circulation.
Overall, with the right cultivation, watering, fertilization and pruning practices, Derris scheffleri Harms can be an excellent addition to any garden or landscape.Propagation of Derris scheffleri Harms
Derris scheffleri Harms, commonly known as "Makokola Wattle," is a plant species native to Africa. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and can grow up to 20 meters high. The plant is mainly propagated by seeds and stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Derris scheffleri Harms should be harvested when they are mature, dark, and hard. Immature seeds may fail to germinate. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist but not waterlogged. The ideal temperature for germination is around 20-25 degrees Celsius. The seedlings may take up to three weeks to emerge.
When the seedlings have developed two true leaves, they should be transplanted into individual pots. They should be kept in a well-lit area but not in direct sunlight. The young plants should be watered regularly but not overwatered.
Stem Cutting Propagation
The plant can also be propagated by stem cuttings taken from a parent plant. The best time to take cuttings is during the growing season when the plant is actively producing new growth.
The stem cuttings should be about 10cm long and should be taken from the upper part of the plant. Cuttings should have at least one node, which is where the leaves attach to the stem.
The cutting's base should be dipped in rooting hormone, and the cutting should be planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy, and the cutting should be kept in a well-lit area but not in direct sunlight.
After about three to four weeks, the cutting should have developed roots and can be transplanted into a larger container or planted outside in the soil.
Conclusion
Propagation of Derris scheffleri Harms can be achieved by both seed and stem cutting methods. With the correct conditions, seeds can take up to three weeks to germinate, while stem cuttings can take up to four weeks to develop roots. Both methods require regular watering and a well-lit area but not in direct sunlight.
Disease and Pest Management for Derris scheffleri Harms
As with any other plant, Derris scheffleri Harms is not immune to diseases and pests. It is crucial to keep the plant healthy and free from any infestations. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and some suggestions for managing them:
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that affects Derris scheffleri Harms. This disease causes spots to form on the leaves, leading to discoloration and eventual leaf drop. To manage leaf spot, it is important to remove and destroy infected leaves as soon as they are spotted. You can also spray the plant with a fungicide to help prevent the spread of the disease.
Root Rot: Root rot is a plant disease caused by fungi that thrive in wet soil conditions. It manifests itself by the yellowing and wilting of leaves, stunted growth, and leaf drop. To manage root rot, make sure that your Derris scheffleri Harms plant has good drainage and is not sitting in stagnant water. You can also treat the plant with a fungicide to help prevent the growth and spread of the fungus.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are common pests that can cause damage to Derris scheffleri Harms plants. These tiny pests feed on the plant's sap, causing leaves to turn yellow and become distorted. To manage spider mites, use a strong jet of water to dislodge them from the leaves or spray the plant with an insecticidal soap or spray.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that can cause leaves to curl, yellow, and eventually drop from the plant. They also attract ants to the plant. To manage aphids, use a strong jet of water to dislodge them from the leaves or spray the plant with insecticidal soap or spray.
Preventing any diseases and pests is the best way to manage them. It is important to maintain the plant's health by ensuring it has proper nutrient levels, adequate sunlight, and regular watering. Consistently inspecting the plant for any signs of disease or pests can also help in early detection and management of infestations.
