Overview of Desmodium tortuosum (Sw.) DC. var. ospriostreblum (Steud. ex Chiov.) Sunding
Desmodium tortuosum (Sw.) DC. var. ospriostreblum (Steud. ex Chiov.) Sunding, commonly called the "twisted tick clover" is a leguminous plant species belonging to the Fabaceae family.
Origin
The twisted tick clover is native to Africa, especially in the regions of East and South Africa. The plant has naturalized in other parts of the world due to its medicinal properties as well as its ornamental value.
Common names
Aside from twisted tick clover, the plant has several other common names including:
- Tick trefoil
- Twisted-pod tick clover
- Twisted ting clover
- Greenflower tick bush
Appearance
The twisted tick clover plant has a characteristic twisted pod (hence the name) which sets it apart from other species in the genus Desmodium. The plant grows up to 60cm tall with leaves made up of three oval-shaped leaflets. The leaves are variable in size, but the larger leaflets are round and up to 17mm long. The twisted tick clover flowers are greenish-yellow and occur in loose clusters at the ends of the stalks.
Uses
The twisted tick clover has several uses which include:
- Medicinal properties - The plant is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments ranging from snakebites, coughs, and asthma.
- Soil enrichment - Like other leguminous plants, the twisted tick clover is known to enrich soil by fixing nitrogen.
- Ornamental value - Due to its unique twisted pods and attractive flowers, it is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
The twisted tick clover, though considered a weed, has several uses which have made it a valuable plant species worldwide. Its ability to thrive in dry and arid conditions makes it an ideal plant to grow in areas where other crops fail.
Light Requirements
Desmodium tortuosum var. ospriostreblum prefers a moderate amount of light for optimal growth. It typically thrives in partial shade or dappled sunlight. Full, direct sunlight for extended periods can lead to leaf scorching and decreased growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant variety requires warm temperatures for growth. The ideal temperature range is between 20°C to 30°C. However, temperatures as low as 10°C can be tolerated, but growth may slow down. Frost and freezing temperatures are detrimental to the plant, and it may not survive in these conditions.
Soil Requirements
Desmodium tortuosum var. ospriostreblum thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate short periods of dryness. Soil that retains water for an extended period can lead to root rot and decrease in plant growth.
Cultivation Methods
Desmodium tortuosum (Sw.) DC. var. ospriostreblum (Steud. ex Chiov.) Sunding is a legume plant that is grown in tropical and subtropical regions. It requires well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. The plant can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
The plant requires a warm and humid climate to grow well. It can withstand temperatures ranging from 35°C to 40°C but cannot tolerate frost. It grows well in full sun or partial shade. It can be grown as an ornamental plant or used for medicinal purposes.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. However, it cannot tolerate waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. It is necessary to water the plant only when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry. It is advisable to avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.
During winter, the watering frequency can be reduced to prevent excessive moisture buildup in the roots. The plant can tolerate a short period of drought but cannot withstand prolonged dryness.
Fertilization
Desmodium tortuosum (Sw.) DC. var. ospriostreblum (Steud. ex Chiov.) Sunding requires a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 4:2:3. It is essential to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to nitrogen toxicity.
Fertilization should be done during the growing season, preferably every three months. Organic fertilizers such as compost and manure can also be used to provide essential nutrients for the plant.
Pruning
The plant requires regular pruning to promote bushy growth and prevent leggy growth. It is advisable to prune the plant during the growing season, preferably in early spring or after flowering. Pruning should involve removing dead, diseased, or damaged leaves and stems.
The plant can also be pruned to control its size and shape. It is essential to use sharp and clean pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation Methods for Desmodium tortuosum (Sw.) DC. var. ospriostreblum (Steud. ex Chiov.) Sunding
Desmodium tortuosum (Sw.) DC. var. ospriostreblum (Steud. ex Chiov.) Sunding can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods. The suitable propagation method depends on the type of planting material available and the intended use of the plant.
Sexual Propagation
Desmodium tortuosum (Sw.) DC. var. ospriostreblum (Steud. ex Chiov.) Sunding can be propagated by seed. Seeds can be collected by harvesting mature pods, which turn brownish-yellow when ripe. The pods should be left to dry, after which the seeds can be separated manually. Seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place until planting time. Prior to planting, the seeds should be scarified to enhance germination, either through soaking in hot water for several hours or using a sharp blade to create a small nick on the seed coat.
Asexual Propagation
Desmodium tortuosum (Sw.) DC. var. ospriostreblum (Steud. ex Chiov.) Sunding can also be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from healthy mature plants during the growing season, preferably when the plant has produced flowers. A cutting should be at least 15cm long and have a few leaves attached to it. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone powder before being placed in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mixture. The pot should be placed in a warm, shaded area with high humidity until new growth appears, after which the new plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease Management
Desmodium tortuosum (Sw.) DC. var. ospriostreblum (Steud. ex Chiov.) Sunding is prone to several diseases that may impact its growth and productivity. One of the most common diseases affecting the plant is fungal leaf spot, caused by several fungal pathogens that infect the leaves, causing chlorosis, necrosis, and eventually defoliation.
To manage fungal leaf spot, it is recommended to remove infected leaves, improve air circulation and sunlight exposure, and apply fungicides when necessary.
Another disease that affects the plant is root rot, caused by soil-borne fungal pathogens that thrive in poorly drained soils. Root rot can lead to wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth.
To manage root rot, it is essential to plant the Desmodium tortuosum (Sw.) DC. var. ospriostreblum (Steud. ex Chiov.) Sunding in well-drained soils and avoid overwatering. Fungicides may also be applied.
Pest Management
Desmodium tortuosum (Sw.) DC. var. ospriostreblum (Steud. ex Chiov.) Sunding is also susceptible to several pests that can cause significant damage if left uncontrolled. One of the most common pests affecting the plant is the root-knot nematodes, microscopic worms that infest the roots, causing galls, stunted growth, and yellowing.
To manage root-knot nematodes, it is recommended to practice crop rotation, control weeds, and apply nematicides when necessary.
Another pest that may affect the plant is the bean leaf beetle, a chewing insect that feeds on the leaves, causing defoliation. Bean leaf beetles can be controlled by spraying insecticides or using physical barriers like row covers.
It is important to monitor the plant regularly for disease and pest symptoms and take prompt action to manage them. By adopting good agricultural practices, Desmodium tortuosum (Sw.) DC. var. ospriostreblum (Steud. ex Chiov.) Sunding can thrive and produce high-quality yield.
