Overview
Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc. is a type of plant that belongs to the legume family, Fabaceae. It is a perennial plant that is typically found growing in Asia and Africa. This plant is known for its beautiful flowers and enormous pods, which can reach lengths of up to 30 cm.
Common Names
This plant goes by several common names, including the "Chinese long bean," "yardlong bean," "asparagus bean," and "snake bean." These names describe its appearance and its long, slender pods that resemble a snake or an asparagus.
Appearance
The plant Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc. is a climbing vine that can grow up to 3 meters in height. Its stem is thin and wiry, covered with small leaves that are arranged alternately along the stem. The flowers of this plant are small, white or pale pink, and grow in clusters from the leaf axils. The pods are long, thin, and green, and have a curved shape. When fully grown, they can reach up to a foot in length.
Uses
Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc. is used in several culinary dishes in various countries. It is commonly used in Asian cuisine, especially in Chinese and Thai dishes. Its pods are sliced into smaller pieces and used in stir-fries, soups, and stews. Aside from its culinary uses, the plant is also used in traditional medicine for its ability to treat various conditions such as urinary diseases, dysentery, and diabetes. Its leaves, fruit, and seeds are used to make herbal remedies.
Overall, the plant Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc. is a versatile plant that has both culinary and medicinal uses. Its long, slender pods are an interesting feature of this plant, making it an eye-catching addition to any garden.Light Requirements
Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc. is native to tropical Africa, and it thrives in brightly lit environments. It requires a lot of sunlight to facilitate healthy growth. Direct sunlight is ideal, especially in areas closer to the equator. The plant should receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimum growth.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc. is between 20°C and 30°C (68°F and 86°F). The plant is intolerant to freezing temperatures and will not survive in areas where the temperature falls below 5°C (41°F). If the temperature exceeds 35°C (95°F), the plant will experience stress, which can lead to stunted growth or even death.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc. should be well-draining but also organically rich. The plant prefers soils with a sandy or loamy texture that are slightly acidic with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0. Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc. doesn't do well in waterlogged soils, so it's essential to ensure that the soil is draining efficiently. The plant is also relatively drought-tolerant, and it's best to avoid overwatering it, which can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc. is a heat-loving plant that requires plenty of sunlight to thrive. Therefore, it should be planted in a warm and sunny location in the garden. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate both acidic and alkaline soils. It can be grown from seeds or cuttings and requires regular watering until it gets established.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is crucial for the growth and development of Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc. Overwatering can lead to root rot and plant death, while under-watering can cause wilting and other problems. The plant requires moderate watering during the growing season, and it is best to water it deeply once a week rather than giving it frequent shallow watering. Water should be directed to the base of the plant, and wetting the foliage should be avoided.
Fertilization
Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc. should be fertilized during the growing season to promote growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended. The fertilizer should be applied once a month, and it is best to mix it with water and apply it to the soil around the plant base. Over-fertilization should be avoided as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc., but it can be done to keep the plant growth in check or to promote bushiness. The plant can be pinched back or cut back by half in early spring to encourage branching and fuller growth. Dead or damaged stems and leaves should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of diseases or pests. Regular pruning can also help to prolong the flowering period and improve the plant's overall appearance.
Propagation of Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc.
Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc. can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and division of mature plants.
Propagation from Seeds
The plant produces seeds that are relatively easy to germinate. The best time to sow the seeds is during the spring, and they should be sown at a depth of around 2-3 cm. The seeds should be planted in well-draining soil with good moisture retention capacity. Young seedlings can be transplanted to larger pots or directly to their permanent location once they grow 2-3 sets of true leaves.
Propagation from Cuttings
Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc. can be propagated from stem cuttings taken during the growing season. The cuttings should be around 10cm long and taken from the growing tips of the plant. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone before placing them in a well-draining potting mix. The potting mix should be kept moist, and the cuttings kept in a warm and humid environment until they establish roots. Once the roots are established, the cuttings can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation from Division
Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc. can also be propagated from dividing mature plants. The best time to divide the plants is during their dormant season. The roots of the plant should be carefully teased apart and replanted in their new location. Ensure that the plants are watered well after division to help them establish well in their new location.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc.
Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc., commonly known as Madagascar bean, is a vigorous climbing plant that grows up to 10-15 feet tall. Like most plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can affect its growth and health. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect Dolichos axilliflorus and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes circular spots on the leaves, which eventually turn yellow and fall off. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected plants and avoid overhead irrigation. Avoid watering the plants from above. Apply a fungicide if necessary.
2. Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a powdery white coating on the leaves, stems, flowers, and pods. It can lead to stunted growth and reduced yield. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy infected plants and improve air circulation around the plants. Apply a fungicide if necessary.
3. Root Rot: This fungal disease causes the roots to rot, and the plant may wilt, turn yellow, and die. To manage root rot, avoid over-watering the plants, plant them in well-draining soil, and avoid planting in areas with poor drainage. Apply a fungicide if necessary.
Pests
1. Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. To manage aphids, spray the plants with water to dislodge them, or apply insecticides if necessary.
2. Spider mites: These tiny mites feed on the plant's juices, causing the leaves to look yellow and mottled. To manage spider mites, spray the plants with water to dislodge them, or apply insecticides if necessary.
3. Whiteflies: These tiny insects feed on the underside of the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. To manage whiteflies, remove and destroy infected plants and apply insecticides if necessary.
In conclusion, preventing and managing diseases and pests in Dolichos axilliflorus Verdc. is crucial to ensure healthy and productive plants. Good cultural practices, such as proper watering and fertilization, can help prevent and control diseases and pests. When necessary, use chemical control methods, but always follow the instructions on the label to avoid harming the plants and the environment.
