Description
Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum, also known as Eriosema, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. The plant is native to African countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The plant typically grows up to 40 cm tall and is characterized by its slender and erect stems that bear compound leaves.
The leaves of Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum are pinnately compound, with up to 12 pairs of leaflets that are oblong and hairy. The flowers are arranged in spikes that are up to 10 cm in length, with a range of colors from blue to pink and purple. The fruit is a linear pod that bears seeds that are used for propagation.
Common names
Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum has several common names including Forest Eriosema, Den-domara (in Kenya), and Msendakuzi (in Tanzania).
Uses
Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum has several medicinal uses. In traditional medicine, the roots are used to treat stomach pains, diarrhea, and dysentery. The leaves are used to treat fevers and headaches. Additionally, the plant has potential as a source of natural products for drug development, particularly for the treatment of cancer and other diseases.
Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum is also used in reforestation efforts. The plant has the ability to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere into the soil, which improves soil fertility and promotes plant growth.
General appearance
Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum is a slender and erect plant that typically grows up to 40 cm tall. The stems are covered in fine hairs, and the leaves are pinnately compound with up to 12 pairs of oblong leaflets. The flowers are arranged in spikes that are up to 10 cm in length and can range in color from blue to pink and purple. The fruit is a linear pod that bears seeds for propagation.
Light Requirements
Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum typically grows in full sun conditions. This means that it requires at least six hours of unfiltered sunlight each day to thrive. In areas with hotter climates, partial shade may be necessary to prevent the plant from drying out.
Temperature Requirements
As a tropical plant, Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum prefers warm temperatures between 60 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it can tolerate occasional temperature drops to as low as 50 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to avoid prolonged exposure to frost or extremely high temperatures, which can damage the plant or even kill it.
Soil Requirements
Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It is adaptable to a variety of soil types, including loamy or sandy soils with a slightly acidic pH between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged or compacted soils, which can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum is a low maintenance plant that can thrive in a wide range of growing conditions. It can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings and can grow well in both pots and gardens.
The optimum growing temperature for Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum ranges from 18°C to 25°C. It can tolerate partial shade but grows best in full sun. To ensure that the plant has adequate drainage, it is important to grow Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum in well-draining soil or add compost or perlite to heavy soils.
Watering Needs
It is important to ensure that Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum's soil is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the topsoil is dry to the touch. In the summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering than in the winter months. However, it is important to avoid overwatering the plant to prevent root rot. In cases of overwatering, allow the soil to dry out completely before resuming regular watering practices.
Fertilization
Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum can benefit from occasional fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every two to three weeks. For natural fertilizers, compost tea or fish emulsion can be used as a substitute for chemical fertilizers. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant as it can lead to root burn or tip burn.
Pruning
Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum does not require regular pruning. However, if you notice any dead or diseased foliage, they should be trimmed immediately. Also, if the plant becomes too tall and leggy, it can be pruned back to promote bushier growth. Pruning should be done in the early spring, before new growth appears, as Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum flowers on new growth.
Propagation of Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum
Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum, commonly known as hairy-stemmed eriosema, can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed propagation
Propagation of Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum through seed is recommended. The seeds must be collected from mature, healthy plants, and then stored in a cool, dry place until the sowing time. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and keep them in a warm, bright location. Germination may take around 2-4 weeks, and the seedlings should be allowed to mature for several months before transplanting to a permanent location.
Cuttings propagation
Propagation through cuttings is possible but may not be as successful as seed propagation. Take cuttings from the mature plant's woody stem during the growing season and root them in a well-draining soil mix. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone before planting to promote root growth. Keep the soil moist, warm, and bright until roots form, then transplant them to a permanent location.
Division propagation
Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum is not ideal for propagation through the division method because it has a deep taproot. However, it may be possible to divide and propagate young plants that have not yet developed a significant taproot. Use a sharp knife to separate the plant, ensuring that each division has some roots and foliage. Transplant the divisions into well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist until the plant establishes.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is essential to protect the young plants from cold, frost, and direct sunlight until they have established sufficient roots and foliage.
Disease Management
Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum is generally a hardy plant, but it is susceptible to various diseases. Some common diseases that may affect the plant include:
- Leaf spot: Leaf spots can be caused by different fungal and bacterial pathogens. Infected leaves may have brown or black spots with yellow halos, leading to defoliation. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves and apply fungicides.
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by waterlogging and soil-borne fungal pathogens. Infected plants may have yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and wilting. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering and improve drainage. Apply fungicides to control fungal pathogens.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a powdery white or gray growth on the leaves and stems. Infected plants may become stunted and have distorted leaves. To control powdery mildew, remove infected plant parts and improve air circulation. Apply fungicides to prevent further infection.
Pest Management
Eriosema spicatum Hook.f. subsp. spicatum is also prone to attack by various pests. Some common pests that may affect the plant include:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause severe damage by sucking sap from leaves. Infested leaves may turn yellow, and webs may be visible on the undersides of leaves. To manage spider mites, spray plants with water to increase humidity and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Aphids: Aphids can suck sap from leaves and transmit viruses. Infested plants may exhibit stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. To control aphids, remove and destroy infected parts and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Thrips: Thrips are tiny, winged insects that feed on leaves and flowers, causing silvery streaks and damage to the flowers. To control thrips, remove and destroy infected parts and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
