Entada scelerata A.Chev.
Entada scelerata A.Chev. also known as "Matchbox Bean" or "Sea Heart" is a large climbing plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. This species is found abundantly in the tropical regions of the Americas, Africa, and Asia.
Appearance
The plant has a massive woody stem that can grow up to 3 feet in diameter. The climbing branches can extend up to 130 feet or more in length. The leaves are large, oval-shaped, and can grow up to 13 inches long and 10 inches wide. They are green and glossy on the upper surface and pale green underneath. This plant produces large woody fruit pods that are brown, velvety, and can measure up to 2 feet in length, 8 inches in width and 15 pounds in weight. The pods contain up to 20 seeds that are flat, round, and resemble a coin.
Common Uses
Entada scelerata A.Chev. is used for a variety of purposes. The plant's sap is used for treating fever, diarrhea, and other ailments in traditional medicine practices. The pods are often used as containers for tobacco, salt, and even as musical instruments. The seeds are also used in traditional medicine and are believed to have psychoactive and aphrodisiac properties. Additionally, the seed's shape and size make them perfect for use as lucky charms, jewelry, and even as currency in some cultures.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Entada scelerata A.Chev. is a fascinating plant with multiple uses. Its striking appearance, affinity for climbing, and unique features make it an interesting and valuable addition to any tropical landscape. Despite its multiple uses, this plant is not commonly cultivated due to its massive size and aggressive nature. However, it remains an important plant in traditional medicine and cultural practices in many parts of the world.
Light Requirements
Entada scelerata A.Chev. thrives in bright, direct sunlight, making it an ideal plant for tropical regions with high light intensity. However, it can also grow in partial sunlight and even in shaded conditions, although growth may be slower and leaves may be smaller.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires a warm and humid environment to grow well. The optimal temperature range for Entada scelerata A.Chev. is between 25°C to 35°C. It can tolerate slightly lower temperatures, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 15°C can damage the leaves and slow down growth considerably.
Soil Requirements
Entada scelerata A.Chev. grows best in well-draining and sandy soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil textures, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. However, the ideal pH range for this plant is between 5.5 and 7.5.
Additionally, Entada scelerata A.Chev. can grow in both freshwater and saltwater habitats, making it a versatile plant that can grow in different environments.
Cultivation of Entada scelerata A.Chev.
Entada scelerata A.Chev., also known as the "matchbox bean," is a plant species that belongs to the legume family. It is native to tropical areas of Africa, Asia, and Australia. Cultivating Entada scelerata is quite easy as it is adaptable to different soil types and can grow in various climatic conditions.
One way to grow the plant is through seed propagation. Seeds can be obtained from mature pods which have already dried up. Seeds must be soaked in lukewarm water for 24 hours before sowing. After soaking, place the seeds in individual containers filled with moistened soil. The containers should be placed in a warm shaded area until the seeds germinate. At this point, seedlings can be transferred to larger containers or directly sowed to the ground.
Watering Needs
Entada scelerata prefers moist soil, but it can also tolerate drought conditions. During the growing season, the plant should be watered regularly, ensuring the soil is not overly wet. The best method of watering is through drip irrigation. During the dry season, it is recommended to water the plant once per week.
Fertilization
Entada scelerata does not require a lot of fertilizer. However, adding organic matter to the soil is recommended. Using organic matter such as compost will enhance the soil's quality while providing the necessary nutrients required by the plant.
Pruning
One of the significant advantages of Entada scelerata is that it does not require extensive pruning. However, some minimal pruning can be done in the early stages of growth. This will help the plant to establish a sturdy and well-structured canopy. Additionally, pruning can be done during the later stages of growth to remove any dead or damaged branches.
Overall, Entada scelerata is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal upkeep. With proper care and attention, the plant will thrive and grow while providing its numerous unique benefits.
Propagation of Entada scelerata A.Chev.
Entada scelerata A.Chev., commonly known as sea heart or monkey ladder, is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It grows in the tropical regions of the Americas and Africa, thriving in areas with sandy or loamy soils and receiving plenty of sunlight.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Entada scelerata is through seeds. The seeds are large and heavy, measuring about 5-15 cm in length and 2-8 cm in width. They should be planted directly into the soil, as they have a poor germination rate when stored and transported.
Before planting the seeds, they should be soaked for 24 hours in warm water to soften the hard seed coat and stimulate germination. After that, they can be planted at a depth of 3-4 cm and covered with soil. The optimal temperature for germination ranges between 25-35°C.
Seeds should be planted in well-draining soil and watered regularly to maintain moisture levels. It can take up to six months for the juvenile plants to emerge from the soil.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Entada scelerata can be achieved through stem cuttings. This method is less common than seed propagation as the plant is not easily propagated by cuttings.
Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants during the growth phase and planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root formation. And they should be kept in a moist and warm environment until they develop roots.
It is important to keep the cuttings out of direct sunlight and minimize exposure to wind and pests until they are established. It can take several months for the cuttings to develop a strong root system and reach maturity.
Conclusion
Propagation of Entada scelerata can be done through either seed or vegetative methods. Seed propagation is the most common and reliable method with a higher success rate. Therefore, if you are planning to propagate Entada scelerata, it is recommended that you use the seed propagation method as the first choice.
Disease and Pest Management for Entada scelerata A.Chev.
Entada scelerata A.Chev., commonly known as sword bean, is a medicinal plant with several health benefits. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can affect its growth, yield, and quality. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and suggestions on how to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that affects several parts of the plant, including the leaves, stems, and pods. It appears as small red or brown spots on the leaves, which later turn yellow and fall off. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves, and apply fungicide as directed.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and pods. It appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves and can cause stunted growth and reduced yield. To manage this disease, maintain proper air circulation, avoid overhead watering, remove infected plant parts, and apply fungicide as directed.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots and can cause wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant. It is caused by overwatering or poor drainage, and it can be managed by improving the drainage, avoiding overwatering, and applying fungicide as directed.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that pierce the leaves and suck the sap, causing yellowing, curling, and distortion of leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies and can cause significant damage to the plant by chewing the leaves, stems, and pods. To manage these pests, handpick them off the plant and destroy them, spray the plant with bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), or introduce natural predators like birds.
Mites: Mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and shedding of the leaves. To manage mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators like predatory mites.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can ensure the healthy growth and yield of Entada scelerata A.Chev. plant.
