Origin and Common Names
Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is commonly known as the Western Purple Bean, and it is believed to have originated from West Africa.Appearance
The plant grows as a shrub with a height of up to 2 meters. The leaves are trifoliate, and the flowers are purple in color, growing in clusters of up to 6 flowers per stalk. The fruit is an elongated, cylindrical pod that can be up to 20 cm long, and it contains many purple seeds that are used for propagation.Uses
Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek has several uses, including food and medicinal purposes. In some parts of Africa, the leaves and young pods are cooked as vegetables and served as a delicacy. Moreover, the seeds of the plant are high in protein and can be used as a source of food for animals. In addition, the plant is known for its medicinal properties. The roots have been used to treat coughs and infections, while the leaves are used to relieve headaches and treat skin conditions. Overall, Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek is a versatile plant that has both culinary and medicinal uses. Its striking purple flowers and elongated fruits make it a fascinating addition to any garden or landscape.Light Requirements
The Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek is a plant species that requires adequate sunlight. It requires direct exposure to sunlight with a moderate amount of shade. A location with full sun exposure is the ideal condition for the plant. It is recommended to plant it in an area where it can receive a minimum of six hours of sunlight every day.
Temperature Requirements
The Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek plant species can thrive in a temperature range of 18°C (64°F) to 32°C (90°F). The ideal temperature for its growth and development is around 24°C (75°F). Therefore, the plant can grow optimally in areas with a warm climate, which is typically in tropical regions. The plant may tolerate lower temperatures, but its growth rate will be slower.
Soil Requirements
The Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek plant requires well-draining soil. It prefers soil with a neutral pH level ranging from 6 to 7.5. The ideal consistency of the soil should be loamy, which is a mixture of sand, silt, and clay. The plant species prefers soil that is rich in nutrients. It is also recommended to add organic matter to improve soil fertility, moisture retention, and aeration. Overwatering or waterlogging should be avoided, as it may cause root rot.
Cultivation methods
The Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek plant requires a warm and sunny environment with well-draining soil. It can be grown in pots or in the ground. Sow the seeds at a depth of 2-3 cm in the soil, and maintain a distance of 15-20 cm between the seeds. Transplant the seedlings when they are 4-5 inches tall.
Watering needs
The Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should not be too dry or too wet. Water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the temperature and humidity levels. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
The Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek plant requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer, preferably one that is high in nitrogen. Apply the fertilizer once a month during the growing season, and reduce the frequency during the winter or dormant season.
Pruning
The Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek plant does not require much pruning. However, dead or damaged leaves and stems should be removed as soon as possible to prevent the spread of diseases. You can also trim the plant to shape it or to control its size. Pruning should be done during the dormant season or after flowering.
Propagation of Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek
Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek, commonly known as Orchid bean or Kidney bean, is a leguminous plant that is native to West and Central Africa. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its showy flowers that bloom in different colors, including pink, white, yellow, and purple. Propagation of Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek can be achieved through different methods, including:
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek is through seeds. The plant produces pods containing several seeds that can be collected when the pod starts to dry up and turn brown. The seeds should be cleaned and soaked in water overnight to soften their tough outer coat. The softened seeds are then sown in pots filled with well-draining soil and kept in a warm and bright location. The seeds should germinate within 7-14 days, and the seedlings can be transplanted to larger containers or directly into the garden when they are about 2-3 inches tall.
Cutting Propagation
Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek can also be propagated through stem cuttings. To do this, select healthy stems that are about 4-6 inches long and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a pot filled with moist, well-draining soil. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or place it in a propagator to create a humid environment. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright, warm location, but out of direct sunlight. The cutting should root within 2-6 weeks, and you can gradually remove the plastic bag once the roots have formed.
Division Propagation
Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek can be propagated through division, mainly when the plant has overgrown its container or the garden bed. Dig out the plant and separate the roots into several sections, ensuring that each section has some roots and shoots. Replant the sections in their new pots or garden beds, water thoroughly, and place them in a bright location. Keep the soil moist until the plant has re-established itself.
Overall, Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek is an easy plant to propagate, and you can choose the method that suits you best, depending on the resources available.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek
The Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek, commonly known as the Western hyacinth bean, is a hardy plant that can grow without much maintenance. However, it is essential to keep an eye on the plant as it is vulnerable to various pests and diseases that can cause severe damage. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
The most common diseases that affect the Western hyacinth beans are fungal and bacterial diseases. These diseases can cause discoloration, stunted growth, leaf spots, and can even kill the plant.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes lesions on the plant's leaves and stems. To manage the disease, prune the infected parts of the plant and dispose of them immediately. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the plant's roots, causing them to turn brown and mushy. To manage root rot, ensure that the plant is not overwatered, and the soil has good drainage. Fungicides can be used as a treatment, but prevention is the best approach.
Pests
There are several pests that can affect the Western hyacinth beans, including aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can cause significant damage to the plant, including stunted growth and reduced yield.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing leaves to curl and wilt. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them. Additionally, planting companion plants like marigolds and basil can help repel them.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that thrive in dry and hot conditions. They feed on the plant's sap and cause leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. It is also recommended to spray the plant with water regularly as spider mites do not like high humidity.
Thrips: Thrips are slender insects that feed on the plant's foliage, causing discoloration and shedding of leaves. To manage thrips, use yellow sticky traps to catch them, and insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them. It is also recommended to remove and dispose of any infected plant debris immediately.
By keeping an eye on the Dolichos chrysanthus A.Chev. var. occidentalis (Harms) R.Wilczek plant and taking preventive measures, the plant can thrive and produce a good yield.
