Origin and Common Names
Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. is a native plant of South Africa, commonly known there as "Katjang-idjoe" or "Klapperboontjie". It can be found in other African countries such as Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Zambia as well.
General Appearance
Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. is a woody vine that grows up to 5 meters in length. Its stems are thin and flexible, allowing them to twine around surrounding vegetation for support. The leaves are trifoliate, with each leaflet measuring up to 5 cm long and 3 cm wide. The plant produces a spike-like inflorescence with small white or light purple flowers, and the fruits are cylindrical, slightly curved legumes measuring up to 6 cm in length.
Uses
Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. has numerous uses in traditional medicine, particularly in the treatment of digestive and respiratory conditions. The roots and leaves are used in decoctions or infusions to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and other gastrointestinal ailments. They are also used as an expectorant to relieve coughs and chest congestion.
In addition, the plant has a range of other uses. The seeds can be consumed raw or roasted, and are a good source of protein and essential amino acids. The leaves and stems can be used as animal fodder, and the plant is used for erosion control due to its vigorous growth habit and ability to bind soil.
Overall, Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. is a versatile and valuable plant, not only for its medicinal and nutritional properties but also for its ecological benefits.
Light Requirements
Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. requires full sun exposure for healthy growth. The plant needs bright and direct sunlight to be able to produce flowers and fruits. Growing the plant in shaded areas will lead to slower growth and reduced yield.
Temperature Requirements
The optimum temperature for the growth of Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. is between 18°C and 28°C. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C, but exposure to frost should be avoided. High temperatures above 35°C can cause heat stress and damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, clay, and loamy soils. Soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.5 for optimal growth. The plant is moderately tolerant to salt and can grow in slightly saline soils.
Cultivation Methods
The Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. plant can thrive in warm and humid environments. It prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in partial sun or full sun. The plant grows rapidly and requires a support structure such as a trellis for optimal growth. The plant can easily be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Watering Needs
The Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. plant requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist. The plant does not tolerate drought and can quickly wilt if not watered regularly. However, over-watering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization helps to keep the Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. plant healthy and vibrant. The plant responds well to organic fertilizers such as compost and worm castings, which can be added to the soil during planting or as a top dressing later. Fertilizers high in nitrogen should be avoided as they can encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Regular pruning can help to keep the Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. plant in shape and encourage optimal growth. The plant can be pruned to remove dead or damaged branches, to encourage branching, and to shape the plant to fit the desired form. Pruning can be done anytime, but it is best to avoid during very hot or dry periods.
Propagation of Dolichos Axillaris E.Mey.
Propagation is an important aspect of cultivating Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. This plant can be propagated through various means such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation through Seeds
The most common method of propagating Dolichos axillaris is through seeds. The seeds only need to be soaked in warm water for 24-48 hours before planting. Once the seeds have been soaked, they should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they germinate. The seedlings can be then transplanted once they are big enough.
Propagation through Cuttings
Dolichos Axillaris can also be propagated through stem cuttings, which should be taken from mature plants. The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone and then placed in a planting soil mixture. These cuttings can be kept in a warm, humid location until they develop roots and can be transplanted to their new location.
Propagation through Division
Division is another method of propagating Dolichos axillaris. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller parts and planting each one individually. In order to do this, the plant should be carefully dug up and divided into the desired sections. Each section should have a good root system and some leaves. These sections can be then transplanted into their desired locations and watered on a regular basis.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos axillaris E.Mey.
Dolichos axillaris E.Mey. is a hardy perennial plant that is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, there are a few common pests and diseases that can affect the plant, and adequate management practices can mitigate their impact.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck on the sap of plants, causing the leaves to curl and distort. To control aphids, prune the affected leaves or use insecticides like neem oil, soap sprays, or pyrethrum-based sprays.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the leaves of plants. They can be controlled by handpicking or using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray.
Diseases
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and die. This disease can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering. If the disease has already set in, remove the affected parts and treat the remaining plant with a fungicide.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of plants, causing them to become covered with a white powdery substance. This disease can be prevented by ensuring adequate air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. If the disease has already set in, treat the plant with a fungicide.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and twigs of the plant, causing them to develop dark, sunken spots. This disease can be prevented by ensuring adequate air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. If the disease has already set in, remove the affected parts and treat the remaining plant with a fungicide.
Regular inspection and maintenance of the plant can help in early detection and control of pests and diseases. Using organic methods like crop rotation, companion planting, and introducing beneficial insects can also help in preventing pest and disease outbreaks.
