Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. var. macranthus Brenan
Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. var. macranthus Brenan, also known as the Large-flowered dolichos, is a flowering plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is a variety of the species Dolichos axillaris.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Large-flowered dolichos, Wild climbing bean, and Wildeboontjie in South Africa.
Uses
Large-flowered dolichos has medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various conditions such as skin infections, blisters, and chest pains. The leaves and shoots are used as a vegetable in some parts of South Africa and the seeds are eaten after boiling and roasting.
General Appearance
Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. var. macranthus Brenan is a woody perennial climber that can grow up to 2-3 meters in length. The stems are slender, ridged, and pubescent and the leaves are trifoliate with a central leaflet that is larger than the other two. The flowers are large, showy, and predominantly pink or purplish-pink in color. The fruits are elongated, pendulous and contain several seeds.
Growth Conditions of Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. var. macranthus Brenan
Light Requirements: Dolichos axillaris requires full sunlight for optimal growth and flowering. The plant can grow in partial shade conditions but will not flower as well.
Temperature Requirements: Dolichos axillaris grows well in warm temperatures. It requires a minimum temperature of 10°C and a maximum temperature of 35°C. The plant does not tolerate frost and cannot survive in temperatures below 5°C.
Soil Requirements: Dolichos axillaris prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, the soil should not be waterlogged or too alkaline.
Watering Requirements: Dolichos axillaris requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered when the top layer of soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, and underwatering can cause the plant to wilt and drop its leaves.
Fertilizer Requirements: Dolichos axillaris benefits from regular applications of organic fertilizers that are rich in nitrogen and phosphorus. The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season. However, over-fertilization can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced flowering.
Cultivation Methods for Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. var. macranthus Brenan
The plant is widely grown in tropical regions, and it prefers a warm and humid climate. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 20°C and 30°C. The plant needs well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, the soil should be prepared by adding compost or manure.
The plant requires partial shade to full sunlight for optimal growth. It can grow well in both acidic and alkaline soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5.
Watering Needs for Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. var. macranthus Brenan
The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. However, over-watering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot. The frequency of watering depends on the climate and soil conditions. During hot and dry periods, the plant may require more frequent watering. The soil should be tested regularly to ensure that the plant is not under or over-watered.
Fertilization for Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. var. macranthus Brenan
The plant requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth, especially during the flowering and fruiting stages. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 5-10-10 is recommended. Fertilizer should be applied every two months during the growing season. Avoid applying fertilizer during the dormant season.
Pruning for Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. var. macranthus Brenan
To promote bushier growth, the plant should be pruned annually during the dormant period. Pruning involves cutting back the old stems to allow new growth. Dead or diseased stems should be removed as soon as they are noticed to prevent the spread of diseases. Regular pruning can also help to maintain the shape and size of the plant.
Propagation of Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. var. macranthus Brenan
Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. var. macranthus Brenan, commonly known as the dolichos bean, can be propagated through both seed and vegetative methods.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds can be obtained from mature pods of the plant. Mature pods can be identified by their brownish color and dry, papery texture. After collecting the pods, the seeds should be removed and stored in a cool, dry place until planting time. Planting should take place when temperatures are warm, and there is no risk of frost.
The seeds should be planted in well-draining soil, and the soil should be kept moist but not excessively wet. Germination usually takes about 7-10 days. Once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves, they can be transplanted to their permanent location in the garden or container.
Propagation by Vegetative Methods
Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. var. macranthus Brenan can also be propagated by vegetative methods such as stem cuttings and layering.
Stem cuttings should be taken from healthy plants in the spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 4-5 inches in length and should include at least two nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the cutting should be placed in a warm, sunny location. Rooting should occur in about 3-4 weeks.
Layering can also be used to propagate the dolichos bean. In this method, a low-lying stem is selected and a small portion of bark is removed, exposing the inner wood. The exposed area should be covered with soil, and the stem should be held in place with a stake. Roots should develop at the site of the exposed wood, and the stem can then be cut and replanted.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos axillaris E.Mey var. macranthus Brenan
Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. var. macranthus Brenan, commonly known as the leopard creeper, is a fast-growing, deciduous climber that is native to South Africa. Although resistant to many diseases and pests, it may suffer from a few common issues that could cause harm to its growth and development. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that affect Dolichos axillaris E.Mey var. macranthus Brenan, along with some management strategies to combat them:
Diseases
1. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that can affect many plants, including Dolichos axillaris. It first appears as white, powdery spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. As the disease progresses, the plant's leaves may curl and turn yellow, and the plant may begin to lose vigor. To manage this disease, remove any infected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Avoid overhead watering, as this can promote the growth of the fungus. Apply a fungicide to the plant to control powdery mildew.
2. Leaf spot: Leaf spot is another common fungal disease that can affect Dolichos axillaris. It appears as dark spots on the leaves of the plant. As the disease progresses, the spots may merge, causing the leaves to turn yellow and drop. To manage this disease, remove any infected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Water the plant at the base to avoid wetting the leaves. Apply a fungicide to the plant to control leaf spot.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of plants. They can cause distorted growth, yellowing leaves, and the development of a sticky substance called honeydew on the leaves. To manage aphids, remove them from the plant by spraying it with a strong stream of water. Alternatively, you can apply an insecticidal soap to the plant to control aphids.
2. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the sap of plants, causing yellowing, decreased vigor, and premature leaf drop. They produce webbing, which can cover the leaves of the plant. To manage spider mites, remove any heavily infested plant parts and dispose of them properly. Spray the plant with water regularly to keep the leaves clean and free of dust. Apply an acaricide to the plant to control spider mites.
By following these disease and pest management strategies, you can help ensure the health and vitality of your Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. var. macranthus Brenan plant. By keeping the plant free from disease and pests, you can enjoy the beauty of its lush foliage and striking flowers for years to come.
