Origin
Eriosema glomeratum (Guill. & Perr.) Hook.f. var. laurentii (De Wild.) Baker f. is native to West and Central Africa including Angola, Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, and Nigeria.
Common Names
The plant has several common names in various African countries. In Cameroon, it is known as "Arachide-fût," while in Gabon, it is called "Moutougou" or "Motogou." The plant is also referred to as "Pounded Groundnut" or "Wild groundnut" in some regions.
Uses
Eriosema glomeratum (Guill. & Perr.) Hook.f. var. laurentii (De Wild.) Baker f. has several traditional medicinal uses in Africa. In Cameroon, a decoction of the root is used to treat snakebites, relieve pain, and fight against weakness and fatigue. In Gabon, it is used as an aphrodisiac and as a remedy for stomach illnesses. The seeds of the plant are edible and are a source of nutrition for some communities.
General Appearance
Eriosema glomeratum (Guill. & Perr.) Hook.f. var. laurentii (De Wild.) Baker f. is a perennial herb that grows up to 2 meters high. The leaves are pinnately compound with 4-7 leaflets that are oblong to elliptic in shape. The flowers are reddish-purple in color and are clustered in dense heads. The fruit is a cylindrical pod that contains several seeds. The plant prefers to grow in rainforests and savannas and can adapt to various soil types.
Light requirements
Eriosema glomeratum var. laurentii requires full sunlight exposure to thrive. It can tolerate partial sunlight, but the growth rate may be slower as compared to when it is grown under full sun exposure.
Temperature requirements
The plant grows well under average to warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for maximum growth is between 20°C to 30°C. Temperatures below 15°C are not suitable for the plant and may cause stunted growth or even death.
Soil requirements
Eriosema glomeratum var. laurentii is quite versatile when it comes to soil type, but it prefers well-drained soils with high nutrient content. The ideal soil pH range is between 5.5 to 6.5. Waterlogged or poorly drained soils should be avoided as they can cause root rot and other soil-borne diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Eriosema glomeratum var. laurentii can be grown both indoors and outdoors. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can be grown from seeds or propagated through cuttings. When starting from seeds, it is best to soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting them in the soil. The plant prefers a warm and humid environment with plenty of sunlight.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. It is important not to overwater the plant as this may lead to root rot. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. During the dry season, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Eriosema glomeratum var. laurentii can benefit from regular fertilization to encourage healthy growth and flowering. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for best results.
Pruning
Pruning Eriosema glomeratum var. laurentii can help to promote bushier growth and increase flower production. Deadheading spent flowers can also encourage the plant to produce more blooms. Prune the plant after flowering to control its size and shape. Use sharp, clean pruning shears and cut back stems to just above a bud or node.
Propagation of Eriosema glomeratum var. laurentii
Eriosema glomeratum var. laurentii can be propagated through seeds and stem cuttings. Both methods require careful attention to the plant's environment to ensure successful propagation.
Propagation from Seeds
To propagate Eriosema glomeratum var. laurentii from seeds, it is essential to use fresh, viable seeds. The best time to collect seeds is when the pods turn brown and start to split open. Once collected, the seeds should be cleaned, removing any debris and broken seeds.
Sowing should be done in a well-draining, fertile soil mix. The seeds can either be sown directly in the ground or in containers. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, and water well. Keep the soil evenly moist but not wet. Germination can take up to four weeks.
Thin the seedlings once they have two sets of true leaves, leaving only the strongest ones. Continue to water and fertilize regularly. The seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location once they are large enough to handle.
Propagation from Stem Cuttings
Propagation from stem cuttings is an effective way to quickly propagate Eriosema glomeratum var. laurentii. Select a healthy stem with no signs of disease or damage and cut a five-inch stem from the plant.
Remove the leaves from the bottom two inches of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining, fertile soil mix and water well. Cover the cutting with a plastic bag or cloche to keep the humidity high. Place the cutting in a shaded area and keep the soil moist.
Rooting should take place in three to four weeks. Once roots have formed, the cutting can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease Management
Eriosema glomeratum var. laurentii is prone to various diseases that affect its growth and productivity. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves and stems. It can affect the growth and productivity of the plant. To manage anthracnose, it is essential to use fungicides that contain active ingredients such as copper, mancozeb, and chlorothalonil. It is also necessary to remove and destroy any infected plant parts to prevent the spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that causes white, powdery growths on the leaves and stems. It can affect the plant's health and reduce productivity. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to use fungicides that contain active ingredients such as myclobutanil and potassium bicarbonate. It is also necessary to maintain good air circulation around the plant to prevent the disease from spreading.
Pest Management
Eriosema glomeratum var. laurentii is also prone to attack by various pests that can cause severe damage to the plant. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are tiny insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and wilting. To manage aphids, it is essential to use insecticides that contain active ingredients such as imidacloprid and acetamiprid. It is also necessary to remove any infected plant parts to prevent the spread of the pest.
Thrips
Thrips are small insects that feed on the leaves and flowering parts of the plant. They can cause deformation of leaves and flowers, and reduce the plant's productivity. To manage thrips, it is essential to use insecticides that contain active ingredients such as spinosad and abamectin. It is also necessary to maintain good hygiene in and around the plant to prevent the insect from spreading.
