Overview
Dolichos retusus E.Mey., also known as the kidney bean tree, is a small to medium-sized tree which is native to Southern Africa. It is a member of the Fabaceae family and is characterized by its large kidney-shaped leaves and striking clusters of red flowers that bloom from late winter to spring.
Appearance
The Dolichos retusus E.Mey. generally grows up to 10 meters in height, with a trunk circumference of up to 2 meters. Its bark is dark brown and deeply furrowed. The leaves of the tree are large and kidney-shaped, with a glossy green surface and slightly serrated edges. They can grow up to 15 cm in length. The tree produces an abundance of bright red flowers that grow in clusters between June and August. These are followed by brown pods, around 10 cm in length, which split open to reveal kidney-shaped seeds.
Uses
The Dolichos retusus E.Mey. has many uses. Its wood is hard and dense, making it ideal for use in carving, furniture-making, and as firewood. The leaves of the tree are used in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of ailments. The bark is also used in the production of traditional African beer. The seeds of the tree are edible and can be roasted, boiled or ground into flour. The tree is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its attractive flowers.
Common Names
The Dolichos retusus E.Mey. is known by various common names, including the kidney bean tree, umsenge (Zulu), umwenya (Xhosa), umnondo (Swazi), and umfongothwane (Tsonga).
Light Requirements
The plant Dolichos retusus E.Mey. prefers to grow in bright light conditions. It can tolerate full sun exposure, but partial shade is ideal. It is recommended to place the plant near a window that receives bright, indirect sunlight for at least six hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
The suitable temperature range for the growth of Dolichos retusus E.Mey. is between 15 to 28°C (59 to 82°F). It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but does not do well in frosty conditions. The plant should be kept away from air conditioning or heating vents, as it can affect the plant's growth and health.
Soil Requirements
Dolichos retusus E.Mey. requires well-draining soil with a neutral pH level. The soil should be fertile, rich in organic matter, and have good water retention capacity. The addition of perlite or sand can increase the soil's drainage capacity. The plant does not tolerate wet soil, so it is crucial to avoid overwatering it.
Cultivation
Dolichos retusus E.Mey., commonly known as the "Kidney Bean Creeper", is a hardy plant that is easy to grow and cultivate. It thrives in subtropical and tropical climates and prefers a sunny position with partial shade. It can be grown in pots or directly in the ground.
To cultivate the plant, start by selecting a location with well-draining soil. The plant requires fertile and well-draining soil as well as a balanced soil pH. Plant the seedlings at the beginning of the warm season.
Regular watering is required to keep the soil moist. We recommend mulching to conserve moisture and prevent the soil from drying out. Heavy rainfall can cause waterlogging, so ensure that your plant is placed in a well-drained site or container.
Watering Needs
The Dolichos retusus E.Mey. plant requires regular, consistent watering. The soil should be kept consistently moist for optimal growth, but avoid over-watering as this can lead to root rot. During the hot summer months, the plant will likely require more frequent watering, especially if grown in pots or containers. It's best to check the soil's moisture level before watering to ensure that it isn't too dry or too wet.
Fertilization
To promote healthy and robust growth, the Kidney Bean Creeper plant requires regular feeding. We recommend using a balanced, organic fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer evenly around the base of the plant and then water it in well.
It's important to note that over-fertilization can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced flower and fruit production. Always follow the recommended application rate on the fertilizer package and avoid using chemicals that contain harsh substances.
Pruning
Pruning the Dolichos retusus E.Mey. plant is essential to maintaining its shape and promoting healthy growth. Prune the plant after flowering to remove any dead or damaged branches or stems. Pruning also encourages new growth and increases the plant's overall vigor and appearance.
Remove any unwanted or excessively large branches to encourage the growth of new shoots. Trim back excessively long tendrils to ensure that the plant's growth remains manageable. It's essential to wear gloves and use clean, sharp pruning shears to reduce the risk of damage or infections.
Propagation of Dolichos retusus E.Mey.
Dolichos retusus E.Mey. is commonly known as the Kidney bean climber and is a fast-growing perennial plant that can grow up to 8 meters tall. Propagation of this plant is mostly done by seeds, cuttings, and layering techniques.
Propagation by Seeds
The most common method of propagating Dolichos retusus E.Mey. is through seeds. The seeds should be collected once the pods have dried and turned brown. The seeds can be stored in a cool, dry place until ready to use. To germinate the seeds, soak them overnight and then sow them in sandy soil and keep them moist. The seedlings will emerge within two weeks, and they can be transplanted once they have grown to a size of about 10 cm.
Propagation by Cuttings
Dolichos retusus E.Mey. can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Take cuttings from mature stems of the plant, each containing two or three nodes, and remove the leaves from the lower part of the cutting. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in sandy soil. Keep the soil moist, and roots should develop within three to four weeks. Once the roots have developed, the plants can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation by Layering
Another common method of propagating Dolichos retusus E.Mey. is through layering. This method involves bending a lower branch of the plant down to the ground and covering it with soil. The branch should be pinned to the soil to prevent it from springing back up. Over time, roots will develop on the buried part of the branch. Once the roots have developed, the branch can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Dolichos retusus E.Mey.
Dolichos retusus E.Mey., commonly known as umtholo in isiZulu, is a species of legume that is native to Southern Africa. Like any other plant, it is vulnerable to various pests and diseases. To manage these threats, it is essential to understand the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant, and how to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Dolichos retusus E.Mey. is root rot. It is a fungal disease that thrives in poorly drained soils. Symptoms of root rot include yellowing and wilting foliage and stunted growth. To manage root rot, ensure that the plant is growing in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Additionally, remove and destroy any infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
Another disease that may affect Dolichos retusus E.Mey. is powdery mildew. It is a fungal disease that is characterized by a white powdery substance on the plant's leaves. The disease occurs in areas with high humidity and poor air circulation. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy infected leaves, improve air circulation, and grow the plant in a well-lit area to promote quick drying.
Common Pests
Dolichos retusus E.Mey. may also be susceptible to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests suck the plant's sap, leading to stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To manage these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also remove the pests manually or spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off.
Capsid bugs and leaf miners are also common pests that may feed on Dolichos retusus E.Mey. Capsid bugs are tiny insects that puncture plant tissues to feed on sap leading to distorted growth. Leaf miners are tiny larvae that tunnel through the leaves leading to unsightly trails. To manage these pests, remove and destroy any infected leaves and use insecticides. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using insecticides.
Conclusion
Managing pests and diseases in plants is crucial in promoting their growth and development. By understanding the common diseases and pests that affect Dolichos retusus E.Mey., you can take proactive measures to prevent infection and spread and keep your plant healthy.
