Overview of Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc.
Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc. is a member of the Fabaceae family, commonly known as the legume, pea, or bean family, and is native to Tanzania and Kenya in East Africa. This plant is also known as Silver-leaved Bean in English and Maharage ya Kifua in Swahili. It is highly valued for its edible seeds and leaves and is cultivated in many parts of the world for its various uses.
General Appearance
The plant Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc. is a vigorous, twining climber that can reach a height of up to 3 meters. It has dense foliage with leaves that are composed of three ovate leaflets that have a silvery appearance. The flowers of this plant are pink or purple in color and are clustered in axillary racemes, often occurring in large numbers. The fruit is a pod that can measure up to 12 cm in length and contains several seeds that are 1-2 cm long. The plant's stems, leaves, and flowers are covered with soft, silver-gray hairs, which give it a distinct silvery appearance.
Uses
The seeds of Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc. are edible and are consumed in many parts of the world. They are often used in soups and stews and can also be roasted, ground, and used as a coffee substitute. The leaves of this plant are also edible and are eaten as a vegetable in some parts of Africa. They are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, iron, and other minerals. In addition to its uses as a food plant, Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc. is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including diarrhea, stomach problems, and high blood pressure.
The vigorous growth of the plant makes it an excellent choice for soil erosion control and as a screens and hedges. Its striking appearance also makes it ideal for ornamental purposes.
Growth Conditions for Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc.
Light: This plant thrives under full sun exposure, which is necessary for its optimal growth and development. Placing it in a spot that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight every day is recommended.
Temperature: The ideal temperature range for Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc. is between 15°C to 30°C. The plant is sensitive to extreme temperatures and sudden temperature changes. It can tolerate mild frost but not freezing temperatures.
Soil: Growing Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc. requires well-draining soils with a pH level between 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water retention capabilities to ensure proper moisture levels for the plant.
Water: This plant requires frequent watering to maintain its growth and development. However, it is essential not to overwater, as this can result in root rot and other issues. It is recommended to water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilizer: Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc. requires regular fertilization to ensure healthy growth and development. Fertilizers with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 14-14-14 can be used, and it is recommended to fertilize the plant monthly during the growing season.
Propagation: This plant can be propagated through seed sowing or stem cuttings. Seed sowing can be done during the spring or summer months. Stem cuttings can be taken during the growing season and should be planted in a well-draining potting mix until they establish roots.
Pruning: Regular pruning can help maintain the plant's shape and size. It is recommended to prune after the growing season to ensure the plant's energy is focused on growth and development.
Pests and Diseases: Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc. is susceptible to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. Regular observation and prompt treatment are essential to prevent these issues from becoming severe.
Cultivation Methods
The Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc. plant grows well in areas with tropical climates. It needs partial shade to thrive, especially during midday hours. The plant thrives in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It requires sandy loam and good aeration for healthy growth. Although it can withstand temperate and arid conditions, it will not produce as well as it would in tropical areas.
The plant has tendrils that allow it to climb, so trellising is essential for optimal growth. Since it is an annual plant, it needs to be replanted every year. Although it thrives in partial shade, sufficient sunlight exposure is necessary for optimum growth.
Watering Needs
The Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc. plant requires regular watering for healthy growth. The plant needs moisture consistently in the soil without being waterlogged. Water the plant regularly but in controlled quantities. Regular watering helps to prevent the soil from drying out. Drying of the soil can lead to stunted growth and plants that wilt easily.
Fertilization
The Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc. plant requires regular fertilization to complement its nutritional needs. Fertilize the plant regularly with organic fertilizers that are rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Nitrogen helps the plant develop healthy leaves, while phosphorus facilitates healthy root growth. Potassium helps the plant to withstand harsh weather conditions such as drought and strong winds.
Since the plant is sensitive to excessive fertilizer, ensure that you apply just enough based on the recommended dosage. When applying fertilizer, mix it with the soil and water the plant directly at the root zone.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to control the growth of the Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc. plant. Pruning removes diseased, damaged, and overgrown branches and helps to direct the plant's growth. It also increases airflow and sunlight penetration to the lower parts of the plant.
Prune the plant either during the vegetative growth phase or shortly after flowering. Cut back any branches that are too long, dead, or yellow and remove them from the plant. Use a clean, sharp pruning tool to avoid damaging the plant's tissues.
Propagation of Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc.
Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc., commonly known as silver-leaved dolichos, is a perennial plant native to East Africa. The plant is primarily propagated through seeds and stem cuttings.
Seed propagation
Seeds of Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc. can be collected from mature fruits during the dry season. The seeds need to be scarified to break their hard outer coat. This can be achieved by soaking the seeds in hot water (80-90°C) for 5-10 seconds. After scarification, the seeds can be sown in pots or directly in the ground during the rainy season. The seeds usually germinate within 7-14 days.
Stem cutting propagation
Stem cutting propagation is another common method for propagating Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc. Stem cuttings can be taken from mature plants during the rainy season. The cuttings should be 10-15 cm long and should have 2-3 nodes. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained rooting medium. The rooting medium should be kept moist and the cuttings should be kept in a shaded location until they root. After rooting, the young plants can be transplanted to their final location.
Disease Management for Dolichos Kilimandscharicus Taub. var. Argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc.
Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc. is affected by various diseases that can hinder plant growth and reduce yields. Here are some of the common diseases that affect the plant and their management strategies:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, pods, and stems of the Dolichos kilimandscharicus plant, causing dark brown or black spots. The disease is spread through water, soil, wind, and infected plant debris. One of the management strategies is to ensure that the plants have adequate spacing to promote airflow. Additionally, the use of fungicides such as copper hydroxide, carbendazim, and mancozeb can also be effective in controlling the disease.
Mosaic Virus
Mosaic virus is a viral disease that causes yellow mottling and curling of the leaves, which in turn affects the plant's ability to photosynthesize. The virus is spread by insects and contaminated tools. The use of virus-free seedlings and the regular removal of diseased plants can help prevent the spread of the virus. Additionally, insecticides can be used to control the insect vectors that spread the disease.
Pest Management for Dolichos Kilimandscharicus Taub. var. Argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc.
Dolichos kilimandscharicus Taub. var. argyrophyllus (Harms) Verdc. is also susceptible to pest infestations, which can cause extensive damage to the plants. Here are some common pests that affect the plant and their management strategies:
Aphids
Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and wilting of the plant. The use of insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oils can help control the pests. Additionally, introducing natural predators such as ladybugs can also be helpful.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that suck the sap from the plant, causing speckled leaves and eventual yellowing and death of the plant. The pests prefer hot and dry conditions, so maintaining a balanced moisture level can help prevent infestation. The use of miticides such as abamectin and bifenthrin can also be effective in controlling the pests.
Cutworms
Cutworms are the larvae of several moth species that feed on the plant stems at or below the soil surface, causing the plant to collapse. One management strategy is to handpick the cutworms from the plants. Additionally, using protective collars around the plant can help prevent the pests from accessing the stem. The use of Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) is also effective in controlling the pests.
