Dolichos Brevicaulis Baker

Overview of Dolichos brevicaulis Baker

Dolichos brevicaulis Baker, also known as the short-stemmed dolichos, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda and is commonly found in the grasslands and savannah regions of East Africa. The plant is valued for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various conditions.

Common Names

The plant is known by several common names, including but not limited to:

• Short-stemmed dolichos
• Blue-flowered dolichos
• Ndengu
• Njahi
• Ngeta
• Kunde

Appearance

The plant grows up to a height of 1-2 meters, with a short, woody stem. It has trifoliate compound leaves and produces attractive blue or purple flowers. The fruit is a narrow pod that is up to 15 cm long, containing up to 12 seeds. The plant has a deep root system that enables it to withstand harsh dry conditions.

Uses

Dolichos brevicaulis Baker has several uses, including:

• Food: The plant is a source of nutritious and protein-rich legumes, commonly consumed in East Africa. The beans are used in stews, soups, and salads.
• Medicine: The plant is used in traditional medicine to treat various conditions, including malaria, diabetes, hypertension, and infertility.
• Fodder: The plant is used as fodder for livestock, providing a nutritious source of food for grazing animals.
• Soil improvement: The deep roots of the plant help to improve soil fertility, making it more fertile for other crops.
• Ornamental: The attractive blue or purple flowers of the plant make it a popular addition to gardens, parks, and other landscaping projects.

In conclusion, Dolichos brevicaulis Baker is a valuable plant that has numerous uses, ranging from food and medicine to soil improvement and ornamental purposes. Its ability to withstand harsh conditions and deep root system make it an important plant for improving soil fertility and managing dry conditions in East Africa.

Growth Conditions of Dolichos brevicaulis Baker

Light Requirements: Dolichos brevicaulis Baker thrives in direct sunlight for a minimum of 6 hours per day. It can tolerate partial shade but may result in reduced flowering and fruit production.

Temperature Requirements: This plant prefers warm temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Temperatures below 10°C can be detrimental and may cause stunted growth or death. It is also intolerant of frost and extreme heat.

Soil Requirements: Dolichos brevicaulis Baker prefers well-drained, neutral to slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 to 7.5. It grows well in sandy or loamy soil with good organic matter content. Soil that is waterlogged or poorly-drained should be avoided as it can lead to root rot and other diseases.

Water Requirements: This plant requires consistent moisture to thrive but does not tolerate waterlogging. It is advised to water Dolichos brevicaulis Baker regularly, especially during dry spells, but ensure the soil drains well.

Fertilizer Requirements: Dolichos brevicaulis Baker requires regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer or high in potassium and phosphorus. It is recommended to apply the fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season for optimal growth and yield.

Cultivation Methods for Dolichos brevicaulis Baker

Start by selecting a warm and sunny location that provides good drainage for planting. The best time to plant this vine is after the last frost of spring, usually around the end of April or the beginning of May.

The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH level of 6 to 6.8. You may want to enrich it with well-rotted compost or manure, as this plant grows well in fertile soil. Be sure to clear all weeds before planting.

You can plant this vine either on a trellis, fence, or other support structure that keeps it upright. Alternatively, you can plant it around a tree to provide it with support as it grows.

Watering Needs for Dolichos brevicaulis Baker

This vine requires regular watering to help it grow in the first season. Ensure that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant only once a week, as overwatering will cause damage to the plant.

During the second and third year, you may gradually reduce the frequency of watering, as the roots will have developed deeply. However, make sure that the soil does not dry out completely.

Fertilization for Dolichos brevicaulis Baker

This plant needs high levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to aid in its growth. Fertilize the plant using a balanced fertilizer every three to four weeks during the growing season. Start fertilization in May and stop in August before the plant goes into dormancy.

Apply a layer of organic mulching around the base of the plant to enhance its fertility and retain water. The mulch should be two to three inches deep.

Pruning for Dolichos brevicaulis Baker

You may want to prune this plant to ensure it grows upright and stays healthy. Prune the vine in late winter or early spring before the new growth begins. Cut the old and deadwood stems back to the main trunk by using a sharp saw or shears.

Remove any weak or damaged stems to maintain the form and prevent vines from tangling. Trim any side shoots that are growing out of the main stem to enhance the plant's appearance. Eventually, this plant will form a sturdy trunk that should not need pruning.

Propagation of Dolichos brevicaulis Baker

Dolichos brevicaulis Baker, commonly known as the Kenya bean or mazumbai bean, is a perennial leguminous vine that is native to Kenya. Propagation of the plant can be achieved through the use of seeds or cuttings.

Propagation by seed

The propagation of Dolichos brevicaulis Baker seeds is carried out through the following steps:

• Harvest mature pods that have turned brown on the plant.
• Shell and clean the seeds.
• Soak the seeds in water overnight to increase germination rates.
• Sow the seeds in pots or directly into the ground in a warm and moist environment.
• Seeds should be planted at a depth of about 3 cm and spaced about 60 cm apart.
• Germination of the seeds takes about 7 to 14 days.

Propagation by cutting

The propagation of Dolichos brevicaulis Baker using cuttings is carried out as follows:

• Take cuttings from healthy plants about 15 to 20 cm long.
• Remove all the leaves from the lower part of the stem, leaving two or three at the top.
• Dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone to encourage root development.
• Plant the cuttings in a mixture of sand and peat moss or a well-draining potting mix.
• Place the cuttings in a warm place with filtered light and keep the soil moist.
• Rooting of the cutting takes about 4 to 8 weeks.

Propagation of Dolichos brevicaulis Baker can be used to increase the number of plants, or to maintain a genetic line. Whichever propagation method is used, the resulting plants should be monitored carefully to ensure that they grow well.

Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos Brevicaulis Baker

Dolichos brevicaulis Baker, commonly known as a purple hyacinth bean, is an ornamental plant with edible pods. While it is relatively easy to grow and care for, it is susceptible to a few diseases and pests that can damage the plant and reduce its yield.

Common Diseases

One of the most common diseases that affects Dolichos brevicaulis is powdery mildew. This fungal disease causes a white, powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. Powdery mildew can weaken the plant and reduce its productivity. To manage this disease, it is essential to keep the foliage dry, particularly during humid weather, and to apply a fungicide as soon as the symptoms appear.

Another disease that can damage Dolichos brevicaulis is Anthracnose. This fungal infection causes leaf spots, stem blights, and cankers that can deform or kill the plant. Wet weather conditions favor the development of Anthracnose, so good drainage and proper plant spacing can help prevent its spread. Fungicides and proper pruning and disposal of infected plant material can also manage the disease.

Common Pests

Aphids are the most common pests that can attack Dolichos brevicaulis. They suck sap from the leaves and stems, causing them to wilt and deform. Aphids also produce a sticky substance called honeydew that attracts ants and encourages the growth of sooty mold. To control aphids, release natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings, or apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil.

The bean beetle is also a common pest of Dolichos brevicaulis. The adult beetles feed on foliage while the larvae feed on seeds, causing the pods to become deformed and discolored. The best way to control bean beetles is to handpick and dispose of them or use a pesticide that contains pyrethrin.

Overall, maintaining proper garden hygiene and sanitation practices, planting disease-resistant cultivars, and providing the plant with proper nutrition and moisture can go a long way in preventing and managing diseases and pests in Dolichos brevicaulis Baker.