Origin of Desmodium viridiflorum
Desmodium viridiflorum (L.) DC. is a perennial herbaceous plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae or pea family. It is native to Africa, particularly in the countries of Nigeria, Ghana, and Côte d'Ivoire. It is commonly found in humid forests, savannah, and fallow fields.
Common Names of Desmodium viridiflorum
Desmodium viridiflorum is known by several common names depending on the country or region. In Nigeria, it is called “Ewe eye” or “Akerejupon,” while in Ghana, it is known as “Ohentenkyire”. In other parts of Africa, it is called “Nkasa” and “Alumaku”.
Uses of Desmodium viridiflorum
Desmodium viridiflorum has several traditional medicinal uses among indigenous tribes in Africa. The leaves and roots of the plant are used to treat various ailments such as fever, headache, diarrhea, dysentery, and respiratory disorders. It is also used as a natural remedy for worm infestations and as a contraceptive.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Desmodium viridiflorum is also used for erosion control in Africa. Its deep-rooted and fast-growing nature makes it suitable for preventing soil erosion in steep slopes and riverbanks. It is also used as fodder for livestock due to its high protein content.
General Appearance of Desmodium viridiflorum
Desmodium viridiflorum is a herbaceous plant that grows up to 1.5 meters in height. It has a multi-branched stem with green leaves that are arranged alternately. The leaves are trifoliate, with obovate leaflets that are serrated at the edges. The flowers are small and greenish-white, arranged in long panicles. The fruit is a long and narrow pod that contains several seeds.
Light Requirements
Desmodium viridiflorum requires partial to full sunlight for optimal growth and development. In the wild, this plant thrives in open areas, forest edges, and disturbed habitats where there is a moderate level of sunlight. When grown indoors, the plant should be placed near a window that receives adequate levels of sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is known to be hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperature conditions. It grows well in both hot and cold climates and can survive extreme weather conditions such as frost and drought. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. However, it can tolerate temperatures ranging from 5 to 40 degrees Celsius.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. However, it can tolerate mildly alkaline soil. The best soil type for its growth is sandy loam or clay loam soil. The soil should be kept moist but not water-logged, as excessive water can lead to root rot and stunted growth.
Cultivation of Desmodium viridiflorum (L.) DC.
Desmodium viridiflorum (L.) DC. is a perennial plant that thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. It can be grown in both the open field and under a shade cover. The plant requires a well-draining soil with a neutral pH of 6.5-7.5.
Watering Needs
Desmodium viridiflorum (L.) DC. requires regular watering during the growing season. The plant prefers moist soil, but it should not be waterlogged. Watering should be reduced during the dormant season to avoid root rot.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Apply fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and flowering. A slow-release fertilizer can also be used.
Pruning
Desmodium viridiflorum (L.) DC. benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the plant in early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Pinching back can also encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Desmodium viridiflorum (L.) DC.
Desmodium viridiflorum (L.) DC. can be propagated both sexually and asexually. Here are the methods of propagation:
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seed involves sowing cleaned and scarified seeds in a nursery bed in late spring or early summer. The seedbed should be prepared by loosening and leveling the soil. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 0.5-1 cm and covered with soil. Regular watering and weeding should be carried until the seedlings are mature enough to be transplanted in their permanent position.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Desmodium viridiflorum (L.) DC. can be done through the following methods:
Stem cutting
Stem cuttings of 15-20 cm long, with at least three nodes, can be taken from the parent plant during the rainy season. The lower leaves should be removed before planting in well-drained soil. The cuttings should be placed in a shaded and humid area until they develop roots. Within a month, the cuttings form roots and should be transplanted into polythene bags or pots for further growth.
Division
Desmodium viridiflorum (L.) DC. can be propagated through division by dividing the suckers or stem at the base of the plant. The sucker should be separated from the parent plant without injuring the root and transplanted into well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
Propagation of Desmodium viridiflorum (L.) DC. can be carried out using either seed or vegetative methods. Both methods require proper care for the young plants until they reach maturity, after which they may produce viable seeds or suckers for further propagation.
Disease and Pest Management for Desmodium Viridiflorum (L.) DC.
Desmodium viridiflorum (L.) DC. is a perennial plant commonly found in tropical regions of the world. It is known for its medicinal properties as it has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. However, this plant is also vulnerable to different diseases and pests, which can affect its growth and productivity. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that may affect Desmodium viridiflorum, and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Leaf Spot Disease: Leaf spot disease is caused by a fungus and it affects the leaves of the plant. The infected leaves have small, dark spots that may merge and cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage this disease, remove the infected leaves and destroy them. Also, avoid overhead watering which can spread the disease, and apply fungicide to the plant.
2. Root Rot: Root rot is caused by a fungus and it affects the roots of the plant. It causes the roots to become mushy and black, leading to the death of the plant. To manage this disease, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid over-watering. Also, remove and destroy affected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
1. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing the leaves to become yellow and eventually fall off. To manage these pests, spray the plant with an insecticide that is specifically formulated for spider mites.
2. Thrips: Thrips are small, slender insects that feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant. They cause the leaves to become deformed and may also transmit viruses to the plant. To manage thrips, use insecticides that are specifically formulated for thrips and prune any affected areas of the plant.
Overall, it is important to monitor Desmodium viridiflorum regularly for disease and pest infestations and to take appropriate action as soon as the symptoms are noticed. A combination of prevention and management practices, such as proper watering, insecticide use, and removal of affected parts of the plant, can help keep the plant healthy and productive.
