Description of Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey.
Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey. is a native plant to southern and eastern Africa. It belongs to the legume family (Fabaceae), also known as the pea family. The plant is commonly known by its common names, which include the narrow-leaved wonder-bean, purple wonderbean, and pencil wonder bean. It grows as a woody, twining climber with stems that are up to 5 meters long.
Appearance of Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey.
The leaves of Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey. are narrow, long, and twisted, with a color range of purple to green. The flowers are light-purple to pinkish, and they form in clusters of two to three. The fruit of the plant is an elongated pod, which can be up to 20cm long, and it contains about 7 to 10 seeds.
Uses of Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey.
The plant has several uses as a medicinal and food plant. It has been traditionally used to treat skin ailments, such as boils, rashes, and eczema, by crushing the leaves and mixing them with oil. The leaves and roots of the plant are also used to make a tea that is believed to have laxative properties. The seeds of Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey. are edible, and they can be consumed cooked or roasted.
Additionally, Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey. has been used as a cover crop to prevent soil erosion and to improve soil fertility. It is also used as an ornamental plant due to its showy flowers and attractive foliage.
Light Requirements
Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey. is a sun-loving plant that thrives in bright sunlight. It is best to grow it in full sun, which means at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Lack of sunlight may reduce the flower and foliage production of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
This species of plant grows best in temperatures ranging from 18-27°C (65-80°F). It is not frost tolerant and will not survive in temperatures below 4°C (40°F). However, it can withstand a few light frosts if the soil is well-drained and the duration is short.
Soil Requirements
It is important to plant Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey. in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should range from slightly acidic to neutral, between 6.0-7.0. The addition of compost and fertilizer will further enhance the growth of the plant. Avoid planting in areas with heavy clay soil or soil that tends to become waterlogged.
Cultivation methods for Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey.
Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey. is a perennial plant that requires full sunlight to grow, and it can tolerate various soil types. It is easy to cultivate and suitable for outdoor gardens and indoor planting. Plant the seeds in fertile and well-drained soil during the spring season when the temperature is around 20°C. The seeds should be planted 2-3 cm deep and at intervals of 15-20 cm. Ensure that after planting, the soil is watered gently to make it moist.
Watering needs for Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey.
The plant requires moderate watering, and over-watering should be avoided. Water the plant when the soil's top surface feels dry, and let the water drain properly to prevent waterlogging. During the dry season, the plant requires adequate watering to thrive. In contrast, too much water during the rainy season can cause root diseases and decay.
Fertilization methods for Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey.
For optimal growth, it is essential to fertilize the plant regularly. Use a well-balanced fertilizer, such as NPK 20:20:20, once every two weeks during the growing season. Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey. also responds well to the addition of compost and manure to the soil. Ensure to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using fertilizer, to avoid over-fertilizing and causing harm to the plant.
Pruning methods for Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey.
Pruning is necessary for Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey. to promote healthy growth and maintain its shape. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring when it is still dormant. Remove dead, weak and diseased branches to promote new growth. Pruning also helps to control the plant’s size and shape, and it is essential to avoid pruning the plant extensively, as it may affect the flowering and fruit production.
Propagation of Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey.
Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey., commonly known as the riverbank bean or wild bean, is a climbing plant in the legume family. It is native to southern Africa and is a popular garden plant due to its attractive flowers and ability to attract pollinators and beneficial insects.
There are various methods of propagating Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey., including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed propagation
The seeds of Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey. can be collected from mature pods that have dried on the plant. To improve germination rates, the seeds can be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing.
The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil that has been amended with compost or other organic matter. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 2-3 cm and spaced 15-20 cm apart.
Germination should occur within two weeks of sowing, and seedlings should be watered regularly and kept in a warm, sunny location.
Vegetative propagation
Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey. can also be propagated through vegetative means such as stem or root cuttings.
To propagate through stem cuttings, choose a healthy stem that is 10-15 cm long and has several nodes. Cut the stem just below a node using a sharp, clean knife. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting, leaving only a few at the top.
Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and insert it into a container of well-draining potting soil. Water the cutting lightly and cover it with a plastic bag to help retain moisture. Keep the cutting in a warm, bright location, and roots should develop within a few weeks.
To propagate through root cuttings, dig up a mature plant and select a healthy root that is at least 5 cm long. Cut the root into 2-3 cm sections, and plant each section horizontally in a container of well-draining potting soil. Water the cuttings lightly, and keep them in a warm, bright location. Roots should develop within a few weeks.
Whichever method of propagation you choose, be sure to keep the new plants well-watered and in a warm, sunny location until they are established.
Disease Management
Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey. can be affected by several diseases, including root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. Root rot is caused by soil-borne fungi and can be identified by the wilting of leaves and stunted growth. To manage this disease, it is essential to avoid overwatering the plant, improve soil drainage, and avoid planting in poorly drained soils. Leaf spot is characterized by the presence of brownish spots on leaves and can be prevented by providing adequate air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Powdery mildew can be identified by the powdery substance on the leaves and can be managed by spraying the plant with a mixture of neem oil and water.
Pest Management
Dolichos angustissimus E.Mey. can be attacked by several pests, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Aphids can be identified by the presence of tiny insects on the plant's leaves, and their management can involve the use of insecticidal soap and neem oil sprays. Spider mites are characterized by the presence of webs on the plants, and their management can involve the use of insecticidal soap and neem oil sprays, as well as providing adequate humidity by misting the plant or using a humidifier. Whiteflies are tiny insects that can be identified by the presence of white, powdery substance on the leaves, and their management can involve the use of insecticidal soap and neem oil sprays, as well as providing adequate air circulation.
