The Origin and Common Names of Dolichos benadirianus Chiov.
Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. is a plant species that belongs to the family Fabaceae. The plant is native to East Africa, particularly in Somalia, where it mainly grows in dry areas. It is commonly known by various names, including Somali Bean, Benadir Cowpea, and Udumbaro.
The Appearance of Dolichos benadirianus Chiov.
Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. is a shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall. It has branches that are slender and slightly woody. The leaves of the plant are trifoliate and arranged alternately on the stem. The leaflets are oblong, pointed at the tip, and 4-8 cm long. The plant produces fragrant flowers that are usually purple in color and arranged in racemes. The fruit of Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. is a long pod that is 8-15 cm in length and contains between four and ten seeds.
Uses of Dolichos benadirianus Chiov.
Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. has a variety of uses, both medicinal and culinary. In traditional medicine, the plant is used to treat fever, headache, and stomach ache. The leaves are boiled and used as an infusion to treat diarrhea. The roots of the plant are used to treat respiratory infections and coughs. Additionally, the plant has been used to treat snake bites.
In Somalia, Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. is an important part of the diet, and the seeds are consumed in various ways. The seeds are cooked and eaten as a vegetable, boiled with spices, or used in soup and stews. The leaves of the plant are also used as a vegetable and can be added to soups and stews.
Due to its hardiness and tolerance to drought, Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. is also used as a forage plant for livestock. The plant is rich in protein and can contribute greatly to the nutritional value of livestock feed.
Growth Conditions of Dolichos benadirianus Chiov.
Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. is a tropical plant that originated in East Africa. It prefers warm and humid conditions. Here are the ideal growth conditions for this plant:
Light Requirements
Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. prefers bright but filtered light. If you are growing it indoors, place it near a south-facing window to ensure it gets sufficient sunlight. If grown outdoors, provide a partial shade to protect it from direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. is between 20-30°C (68-86°F). It cannot tolerate extreme temperatures below 10°C (50°F) or above 35°C (95°F).
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining sandy soils with a pH range of 6.5 -7.5. It can also grow in loamy soils if they contain enough organic matter. It requires regular watering but cannot tolerate waterlogged soils.
Fertilizer Requirements
Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. requires regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer once every two weeks to ensure healthy growth.
Propagation
The plant can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. If using seeds, soak them in warm water for 12 hours before planting. Place the seeds in well-draining potting soil with ample organic matter. Keep the soil moist but not soggy until the seeds germinate. If using cuttings, take stem cuttings with at least two nodes and plant them in similar potting soil.
By providing the ideal growth conditions, Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. can grow up to 3 meters tall and 2 meters wide, producing beautiful purple flowers and flat pods that have many culinary uses.
Cultivation methods
When it comes to cultivating Dolichos benadirianus Chiov., it is important to keep in mind that this plant prefers a warm climate with temperatures ranging from 18-35°C. It requires a well-drained soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5. The seeds should be sown in spring, and the soil should be kept moist until germination, which usually takes around 7 to 14 days.Watering needs
Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. requires adequate watering to ensure its growth and productivity. It is essential to keep the soil moist, especially during the germination stage. Once the plant has grown, it is recommended to water it once a week, or when the top two inches of soil become dry. Over-watering should be avoided, as it can cause root rot and other damages.Fertilization
To ensure the optimal growth of Dolichos benadirianus Chiov., proper fertilization is essential. It is advisable to use an all-purpose fertilizer, adding 1 to 2 pounds per 100 square feet during the growing season. Alternatively, an organic-based fertilizer can be used, providing nutrients gradually over time. Fertilization should be done once a month, especially when the plant is young.Pruning
Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. does not require much pruning, but it can benefit from some maintenance. It is recommended to trim the plant's dead or damaged branches to improve its shape and overall health. Pruning also stimulates new growth and flowering. It is advisable to prune the plant after flowering, ensuring it has time to recover before the next season.Propagation of Dolichos benadirianus Chiov.
Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. is commonly known as white-leaved Jack bean. The plant is propagated easily through its seeds and stem cuttings. It is considered valuable for its ornamental value and its contribution to soil fertility improvement.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds should be collected from matured pods, which are usually ready for collection four months after flowering. The collected seeds must be dried in the shade to prevent cracking, and stored in a cool, dry place for later use. To propagate, scarify the seeds by rubbing them against a rough surface or nicking them with a sharp blade to facilitate moisture absorption. After scarification, soak the seeds in water for 24 hours to hasten the germination process.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Propagation of Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. can also be done through stem cuttings. This method of propagation is best suited for the vegetative propagation of the plant. Healthy stem cuttings of about 15-20cm long, with 2-3 nodes, should be selected, and treated with rooting hormone powder. Prepare the rooting medium by using a mixture of loam soil and sand, and water thoroughly. After preparing the medium, insert the cuttings about 5cm deep and keep them moist by covering the container with a polythene bag to maintain high humidity levels. Ensure that the container is kept in a partly shaded area.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. Plant
Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. plant is a tough and hardy plant that is resistant to many pests and diseases. However, like all plants, there are a few afflictions that can cause damage to the plant, and it is important to manage these effextively.
Common Diseases
There are several common diseases that can afflict Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. plant including fungal and bacterial diseasest. One of the primary diseases that can affect the plant is powdery mildew, which produces a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to remove and destroy the affected plant parts.
Another common disease that can affect the plant is root rot. Root rot occurs due to overwatering and is characterized by yellowing foliage and a soft, mushy stem. To prevent root rot, water the plant only when the top inch of soil is dry, and ensure there is proper drainage.
Common Pests
Some common pests that can attack Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. plant include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Aphids can be removed by spraying the leaves with an insecticidal soap or a strong spray of water. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can be used to control spider mites. Whiteflies can be managed by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or by using sticky traps to catch them.
Caterpillars and slugs can also be a problem for Dolichos benadirianus Chiov. plant, causing damage to the leaves and fruit. A solution of bacillus thuringiensis can be used to control caterpillars, while beer traps and copper tape can be used to manage slugs.
It is important to monitor the plants regularly and take preventative action to manage diseases and pests before they become a major problem.
