Origin
Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc. is a member of the Leguminosae family, commonly known as the bean family. The species can be found in the tropical regions of Africa, ranging from Sierra Leone to Nigeria.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "Otili" in Yoruba, a language spoken in Nigeria where the plant is native. It is also known as "White Cowpea" in English, due to its white seeds.
Uses
The Otili plant is grown both as a food and ornamental plant. The plant is highly valued for its edible seeds, which are consumed in various ways. In Nigeria, the seeds are usually cooked with vegetables and meat, and the resulting delicacy is served with rice or other staples. The plant is also used medicinally for the treatment of various ailments, including stomachaches and diarrhea.
The plant is also grown ornamentally for its attractive and unique flowers. The white flowers are tinged with purple and green, and they have a lovely scent. The plant is generally cultivated in gardens, and it is used to decorate fences and other outdoor spaces.
General Appearance
Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc. is a herbaceous plant that can grow up to 2 meters in height. The plant has long, slender stems and compound leaves comprised of three oval leaflets. The leaves are dark green and have a glossy appearance.
The flowers of the Otili plant are small and white, with purple blotches and green stripes. They are borne in clusters at the tips of the branches. The plant's fruits are elongated and cylindrical, and they contain numerous small white seeds.
Growth Conditions for Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc.
Light: Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc. requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. At least six hours of direct sunlight per day is ideal. If grown indoors, the plant should be placed near a sunny window where it can receive plenty of natural light.
Temperature: This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it grows best in warm temperatures between 20-30°C. During the winter, the plant can tolerate cooler temperatures if they do not drop below 10°C.
Soil: Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc. thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate different soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soil. The soil should have a pH between 6.0-7.5. The addition of compost or aged manure can help improve soil quality.
Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is important not to let the plant dry out completely between watering. During the winter, reduce watering frequency.
Fertilizer: To promote healthy growth, fertilizer should be applied every four to six weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Alternatively, an organic fertilizer or compost can be used.
Propagation: Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc. can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, and layering. When propagating through seeds, sow them in well-draining soil and keep them moist. Germination can take up to two weeks. For stem cuttings, take a cutting of about four inches and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in well-draining soil. Layering involves bending a stem to the ground and burying a part of it, allowing it to form roots.
Pests and Diseases: Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc. is generally a hardy plant with few pest or disease problems. However, it can occasionally suffer from aphids, spider mites, or leafhoppers. Preventive measures like keeping the plant clean and healthy can help minimize the risk of disease and pest infestations.
Cultivation
Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc. is a hardy plant that grows well in many different environments. It can be grown in pots or in the ground, and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation. When planting, ensure that the soil is well-drained and rich in nutrients.
Watering Needs
Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc. requires regular watering, especially during hot or dry weather. However, it is important not to over-water the plant, as this can lead to root rot. Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the fall and winter.
Fertilization
To keep Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc. healthy and productive, regular fertilization is required. Use a high-quality, balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully, and do not over-fertilize as this can harm the plant.
Pruning
Pruning Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc. is important to maintain its shape and to encourage healthy growth. Prune in the late winter or early spring while the plant is dormant. Cut back any dead or damaged branches, and trim back any overgrown branches or foliage to maintain a neat and tidy appearance. If desired, the plant can also be trained to grow on a trellis or support structure.
Propagation methods for Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc.
Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc. or Oriental Hyacinth Bean is a plant species that belongs to the family Fabaceae. Propagation of this plant species can be done through various methods:
1. Seed propagation
The most common method of propagating Dolichos bianoensis subsp. orientalis Verdc. is through seeds. Seeds can be obtained from mature pods when they turn brown and dry. After harvesting the pods, allow them to dry further and remove the seeds. Soak the seeds in water overnight to increase the germination rate.
2. Stem cutting
Dolichos bianoensis subsp. orientalis Verdc. can also be propagated through stem cutting. Take a 6-inch stem cutting from a healthy plant and dip it in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix, water thoroughly, and keep it in a warm and humid spot. Rooting usually occurs within four weeks.
3. Division
Division can also be a viable option for propagating Dolichos bianoensis subsp. orientalis Verdc. Separate the offshoots from the mother plant, and plant them in their new accommodation like pot or ground, and water immediately.
Propagation of Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc. is quite simple, and it is easy to grow this plant both indoors and outdoors. Regardless of the propagation methods used, ensure that the plants are watered regularly, fertilized, and exposed to optimal sunlight, and maintain moist soil for good results.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc.
Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc. is a legume plant that is susceptible to various pests and diseases. Managing these pests and diseases is essential to ensure good crop production. Proper cultural practices, such as regular watering, fertilization, and pruning, can help prevent diseases and pests, but chemical control may also be necessary in some cases.
Common Diseases
The major diseases that affect Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc. are:
- Fungal Leaf Spot: This disease causes small, circular spots on the leaves, which gradually expand and turn brown. Regularly removing and destroying infected leaves can help prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides can also be applied as a preventive measure.
- Fungus Wilt: This disease causes the plant to wilt and die. It is caused by soil-borne fungi, which can remain viable in the soil for several years. To control this disease, it is necessary to rotate crops and remove infected plants as soon as they are spotted. Fungicides can also be used to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease usually appears on the leaves, causing a white, powdery coating. It can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plants and applying fungicides as necessary.
Common Pests
The main pests that affect Dolichos bianoensis R.Wilczek subsp. orientalis Verdc. are:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves. They can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Cutworms: These nocturnal pests cut the seedlings at the base of the stem. To control them, it is necessary to handpick them or use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) pesticide.
- Leafhoppers: These pests also suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and curling. They can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
It is important to monitor the plants regularly for signs of disease or pest infestation and take appropriate action as soon as possible to prevent or minimize damage. In addition, maintaining good plant hygiene, avoiding over-watering, and providing adequate nutrition to the plants can help prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests.
