Overview of Derris trifoliata Lour.
Derris trifoliata Lour. is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae, which is also known as the Leguminosae family. This plant has many common names, including Three-Leaved Derris, Matrincha, and Jimaima.
Origin of Derris trifoliata Lour.
Derris trifoliata Lour. is native to Southeast Asia, including countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and the Philippines. However, it has also been introduced to other regions, such as Africa and South America, where it has become naturalized in some areas.
Appearance of Derris trifoliata Lour.
Derris trifoliata Lour. is a medium-sized plant that can reach up to 10 meters in height. It has woody stems that are covered in a rough bark and can grow up to 20cm in diameter. The leaves of this plant are trifoliate and have a glossy green color, with a leathery texture. The flowers of Derris trifoliata Lour. are small and white or pink in color, growing in clusters on the plant's branches. The plant's fruits are cylindrical pods that are about 15cm in length and contain several small seeds.
Uses of Derris trifoliata Lour.
Derris trifoliata Lour. has several traditional uses, particularly in Southeast Asia. The root of this plant has been used for centuries as a natural insecticide, due to the presence of rotenone, an organic compound that is toxic to many insects. The root extract has also been shown to have medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments, such as skin diseases, fever, and malaria. Additionally, the plant's leaves and stems are used in traditional medicine to treat coughs and respiratory problems.
Aside from its medicinal uses, Derris trifoliata Lour. is also used for various industrial purposes. The plant's root extract is used as a natural pesticide in organic farming, and the bark and wood are used in construction and to make furniture. Overall, Derris trifoliata Lour. is a versatile plant that has many uses and benefits.
Light requirements
Derris trifoliata Lour. requires full sun exposure to grow optimally. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, especially during hot summers.
Temperature requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth and development of Derris trifoliata Lour. is between 20-30°C. It can survive in both high and low temperatures but performs best in a moderate climatic condition.
Soil requirements
The plant prefers well-drained sandy loams soils but can also grow on other types of soil like sandy clay loam, laterite, and red loam. The soil pH should be between 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth.
Cultivation methods for Derris trifoliata Lour.
Derris trifoliata Lour., commonly known as the “Derris”, is a plant found extensively in tropical regions of Asia. Following are the guidelines for cultivating Derris trifoliata Lour.
- Soil: Derris trifoliata Lour. prefers well-drained, moist soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5.
- Temperature: Derris trifoliata Lour. prefers temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C.
- Light: Derris trifoliata Lour. prefers full sun to partial shade.
Watering needs for Derris trifoliata Lour.
Proper watering is essential for the healthy growth of Derris trifoliata Lour. Following are the guidelines for watering:
- Water: Water frequently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Water quality: Derris trifoliata Lour. prefers clean, non-saline water.
- Watering frequency: The frequency of watering depends on the climate and soil conditions.
- Watering during the dry season: During the dry season, Derris trifoliata Lour. needs additional watering.
Fertilization of Derris trifoliata Lour.
Proper fertilization is necessary to have healthy growth of Derris trifoliata Lour. Following are the guidelines for fertilization:
- Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), and Potassium (K) for better growth.
- Fertilizer quantity: The quantity of fertilizer depends on the soil condition.
- Fertilizer frequency: Fertilize during the growing season (spring and summer) every 2-3 weeks for best results.
- Fertilizer application: Apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant, taking care not to let it touch the stem or leaves.
Pruning of Derris trifoliata Lour.
Regular pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of Derris trifoliata Lour. Following are the guidelines for pruning:
- Pruning time: Pruning can be done anytime during the year.
- Pruning tools: Always use a clean, sharp pair of pruning shears.
- Routine pruning: Prune dead, damaged, or diseased branches as they appear.
- Rejuvenation pruning: Rejuvenate the plant by cutting back a third of its height every 2-3 years.
Propagation of Derris trifoliata Lour.
Derris trifoliata Lour. can be propagated by both sexual and asexual methods.
Propagation by seeds
The seeds of Derris trifoliata Lour. can be used for propagation. The seeds need to be collected from ripe pods and dried in shade before sowing. The seeds should be soaked in water for about 48 hours before sowing. The seedlings will emerge within 7-14 days after sowing.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is also common for Derris trifoliata Lour. Select stems that are healthy and vigorous. Cuttings should be about 15-20 cm long. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting before planting. Dip the basal end of the stem cutting in rooting hormone and then plant in a well-draining medium. Keep the soil moist, but not wet. The cuttings should start rooting in about 3-4 weeks.
Propagation by layering
Derris trifoliata Lour. can also be propagated by layering. In this method, select a healthy and flexible branch and wound it by removing a ring of bark. Apply rooting hormone to the wounded area. Bury the wounded area in the soil, leaving the tip exposed. The branch will start producing roots at the wounded area, and after a few months, the buried part can be cut off and planted as a new plant.
Disease Management
Common diseases that may affect Derris trifoliata Lour. include leaf spots caused by fungal pathogens, such as Cercospora and Phyllosticta. These diseases can cause yellowing and premature leaf drop, leading to reduced plant health and productivity.
To manage fungal diseases, it is important to maintain good cultural practices, such as regular crop rotation and removing infected plant debris. Fungicides can also be applied as a preventative measure, but it is important to choose a product that specifically targets the identified pathogen.
Pest Management
A common pest that may affect Derris trifoliata Lour. is the aphid. These small, soft-bodied insects can quickly reproduce and infest a plant, causing stunted growth and feeding damage.
To manage aphids, it is important to encourage natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, through the use of companion planting. Insecticidal soaps can also be applied to the plant as a low-toxicity option for controlling aphids.
Another potential pest of Derris trifoliata Lour. is the leafhopper, which can cause yellowing and stunted growth by feeding on plant sap. To manage leafhoppers, it is important to remove weeds and grass from around the plant to eliminate potential habitats, and to use insecticides only as a last resort.
Finally, the plant may also be susceptible to damage from spider mites. These small arthropods can cause yellowing and stippling of leaves by piercing plant cells and feeding on sap. To manage spider mites, it is important to maintain good plant hygiene and to apply insecticidal soaps or oils as needed.
