Overview
Dolichos daltonii Webb is a flowering plant belonging to the legume family, Fabaceae. It is a perennial vine that is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Dalton's vine, cream wild pea, and tail cup.
Appearance
Dolichos daltonii Webb features small, cream-colored flowers that have dark brown or purple markings. The flowers are clustered together in cylindrical shapes, resembling a slender tail. The vine can grow up to 8 feet in length and has tendrils that allow it to climb over other plants or structures. The leaves are composed of three leaflets and are a gray-green color.
Uses
The plant has a variety of uses including ornamental, medicinal, and culinary purposes. As an ornamental plant, it is often used in landscaping and gardening. The plant's roots have been used for medicinal purposes by the Native American tribes, and it is said to have diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. The seeds of the plant have also been used to make flour, or eaten cooked as food.
Growth Conditions of Dolichos daltonii Webb
Light: Dolichos daltonii Webb typically grows in full sun to partial shade. However, partial shade is preferable, especially during the afternoon, especially in hot climates. The plant needs at least 4-5 hours of direct sunlight to thrive and will not perform well if grown in complete shade.
Temperature: Dolichos daltonii Webb is native to the Canary Islands, where it grows in coastal areas with a mild, subtropical climate. The plant thrives in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C), but it can also tolerate higher temperatures. It is not frost tolerant, so it is best grown in zones 9-11 where temperature fluctuations are mild.
Soil Requirements: Dolichos daltonii Webb prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal for the plant to grow and thrive. The plant is not fussy about soil type but thrives in sandy, loamy, or clay soils. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil.
Fertilizer Requirements: Dolichos daltonii Webb benefits from regular fertilization during its growing season. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a month, or use a liquid fertilizer weekly. Composted manure or a mix of fish emulsion and seaweed can be used to feed the plant.
Watering: Dolichos daltonii Webb prefers consistent soil moisture. Water the plant regularly and ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. The plant is drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering in hot, dry climates.
Propagation: Dolichos daltonii Webb can be propagated from seed or cuttings. Sow the seeds in the spring, or take cuttings in the summer. The plant needs warm soil temperatures to germinate or root, so starting the seeds indoors is ideal before transplanting outdoors.
Cultivation Methods for Dolichos daltonii Webb
Dolichos daltonii Webb is a climbing plant that is indigenous to the Canary Islands and Madeira. For the best growth, it is advisable to plant it in your garden during the spring or summer season. This will enable the roots of the plant to develop gradually as the weather warms up.
The soil used for planting Dolichos daltonii Webb must be well-draining and rich in organic matter. Additionally, this plant grows best in a location with partial to full shade. It is noteworthy that the plant can grow up to 4 meters tall; hence, it is essential to provide support as it grows.
Watering Needs for Dolichos daltonii Webb
Dolichos daltonii Webb prefers consistent and moderate watering throughout the growing season. During the dry season, the plant may require more frequent watering to keep the soil moist to ensure optimum growth. It is noteworthy that too much water may lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to die. Hence, it is advisable to provide water sparingly and consistently.
Fertilization for Dolichos daltonii Webb
To keep Dolichos daltonii Webb healthy and robust, regular fertilization is essential. Generally, fertilizer high in nitrogen is recommended during the growth stage, and those high in potassium and phosphorus are best for the flowering and fruiting stages. It is advisable to apply the fertilizer in the spring and summer months to optimize the plant growth.
Pruning for Dolichos daltonii Webb
Pruning is essential to keep Dolichos daltonii Webb tidy and healthy. It is advisable to prune the plant in early spring before the growing season. When pruning, it is essential to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to improve air circulation around the plant and minimize the risk of infections. Additionally, if the plant has become too large or is growing out of control, pruning can be used to contain its size and promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Dolichos daltonii Webb
The plant Dolichos daltonii Webb, commonly known as Dalton's bean, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the Canary Islands, specifically in Tenerife and La Palma. This plant is an attractive ornamental perennial plant that is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes. Propagation of Dalton's bean can be done through seeds, cuttings, or division.
Propagation through Seeds
The most common method of propagating Dolichos daltonii Webb is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from mature pods that have turned brown and are dry. The seeds should be sown in spring or early summer in a well-drained soil mix. The ideal temperature for germination is between 18 to 22°C. The seeds will germinate in about two to three weeks, and the seedlings should be transplanted into individual pots once they have developed their second set of leaves.
Propagation through Cuttings
Dolichos daltonii Webb can also be propagated through stem cuttings. This method is usually done in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem that is about 10 to 15 cm long and has several nodes. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist. Place the cutting in a warm, bright location but out of direct sunlight. After a few weeks, the cutting should start to produce new growth, indicating that it has rooted.
Propagation through Division
Dolichos daltonii Webb can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in spring or early fall when the plant is not actively growing. Dig out the plant carefully, and using a sharp knife or spade, divide the root clump into several sections. Make sure that each division has a healthy root system and some stems and leaves. Replant the divisions into individual pots or directly into the ground, making sure to water them well.
Overall, Dolichos daltonii Webb is an easy plant to propagate. It can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or division, and with proper care and attention, new plants can be produced every year.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos daltonii Webb
Dolichos daltonii Webb, also known as the Dalton's bean, is a leguminous perennial plant that is native to the Canary Islands. While it is a hardy plant, it is still susceptible to certain pests and diseases that can damage or even kill the plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes dark, sunken lesions on the stems, leaves, and pods of the plant. It can lead to defoliation and reduced yield. To manage this disease, spray a fungicide containing copper or sulfur on the plant at the first sign of infection.
Rust: This fungal disease manifests itself as orange to reddish-brown lesions on the leaves and stems. It can cause the leaves to drop and weaken the plant. To manage this disease, prune and destroy the infected parts of the plant and spray it with a fungicide containing copper or sulfur.
Common Pests
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause leaf curling, yellowing, and stunting of the plant. To manage this pest, use an insecticidal soap or oil spray or introduce predators like ladybugs or lacewings to the plant.
Spider Mites: These tiny insects feed on the underside of the leaves, causing yellowing, stippling, and defoliation of the plant. To manage this pest, spray the plant with a hose to dislodge the mites or use an insecticidal soap or oil spray. Increasing the humidity around the plant can also help prevent infestations.
Cutworms: These caterpillars feed on the young plants, cutting them at the base and killing them. To manage this pest, use collar barriers around the base of the plant and handpick the caterpillars during the evening when they are active.
By being vigilant and taking the necessary precautions, the Dolichos daltonii Webb can be protected against diseases and pests.
