Origin
Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman is a species of plant belonging to the family Fabaceae. The plant is indigenous to Africa and is found in countries such as Angola, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. The plant is commonly found in forests, forest edges, and grassland areas.
Common Names
Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman is commonly known as the African Soybean in English. In Swahili, the plant is called “Mfumbwa,” while in French, it is referred to as “Soja des savanes.”
Uses
The African Soybean has many uses, particularly in traditional medicine. The plant is used to treat a variety of ailments such as bacterial infections, fevers, and respiratory conditions such as asthma. The roots are used to treat hernias, while the leaves and bark are used to treat high blood pressure and diabetes. The plant is also used as a vegetable in some African countries, and the seeds are harvested and used to make oil for cooking, lighting, and other purposes.
General Appearance
Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman is a hardy, climbing plant with a long life span. The plant can grow up to 3 meters in height, and it has long, slender stems that can spread over a distance of up to 5 meters. The leaves of the plant are dark green and pinnately compound, consisting of three leaflets. The flowers of the plant are lavender and are borne on axillary spikes. The seeds are leguminous, flat, and slightly curved, measuring approximately 5mm in length.
Light Requirements
Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman prefers moderate light conditions. It grows best in areas with partial shade. Direct sunlight exposure for prolonged periods can lead to plant damage, especially during the hottest part of the day. Therefore, it is recommended to provide at least four hours of direct sunlight daily and the rest in the shade.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in a warm climate, with an average temperature range of 20 - 30°C (68 - 86°F) throughout the year. Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) or above 35°C (95°F) can adversely affect the plant's growth rate and lead to stunting or death. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the temperature remains within the optimal range for the plant.
Soil Requirements
Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman is an adaptable plant that can grow in a wide range of soil conditions, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a pH range of 6.0 - 7.0. The plant can tolerate slightly acidic or alkaline soil conditions but not extreme soil pH levels. Additionally, it is recommended to incorporate organic matter such as compost or humus to improve soil fertility, water retention, and drainage.
Cultivation of Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman
Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman is a leguminous plant cultivated for its edible roots and leaves. The plant is well suited to tropical and subtropical climates and is relatively easy to cultivate if the right conditions are met.
The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should also be well-drained and fertile. Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman should be planted in an area that receives full to partial sunlight, and the seeds should be sown at a depth of about 2 cm.
Watering Needs of Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman
Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman requires regular watering, especially during the first few weeks after planting. Watering should be done in the morning or evening to avoid water stress during the hottest part of the day. The plant should be watered deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Once established, the plant can tolerate mild drought conditions, but it is important to maintain consistent moisture to prevent wilting and leaf drop.
Fertilization of Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman
Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman responds well to organic fertilizers and compost. Fertilizer should be applied every two to three months during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Avoid excess application of nitrogen, which can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of root and flower development. Avoid using chemical fertilizers as they can lead to salts buildup in the soil.
Pruning of Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman
Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman requires minimal pruning. Dead or damaged leaves and stems should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease. The plant can be trained to grow on trellises or stakes if desired. It is also important to pinch back the tips of young plants to encourage bushier growth and better root development.
Propagation methods for Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman
Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman, commonly known as the wild soybean, is a perennial leguminous vine that is native to Africa.
The plant can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of sexual propagation for Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii. The seeds should be collected when they are fully ripe and blackened. The seeds should be placed in a well-drained soil mixture that is kept moist. The ideal temperature for seed germination is between 20-25°C. Germination can take up to two weeks.
Asexual propagation
Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii can also be propagated asexually through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the rainy season. Cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth and should have at least two nodes. The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in a mixture of sand and compost. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a warm, shaded area. Rooting can take up to six weeks.
Another asexual propagation method for Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii is through layering. To layer the plant, a shoot is bent down to the ground and covered with soil. The shoot should be allowed to root before it is separated from the parent plant.
Both sexual and asexual propagation methods can be successful for Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii, and it is recommended to use a combination of both methods to ensure a good yield.
Disease and Pest Management for Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman
Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman, also known as the African soybean, is a leguminous plant native to tropical African regions. Like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can impact its growth and yield. Therefore, it is essential to manage these diseases and pests to maintain the plant's health and productivity.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that affect Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman are:
- Root Rot: This is a fungal disease caused by Rhizoctonia solani, which destroys the roots and causes wilting and stunting of the plant. To manage root rot, it is vital to ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering the plant.
- Fusarium Wilt: This is a fungal disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum that blocks the vascular system and causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves. It is vital to remove and destroy the infected plants, as there is no cure for the disease.
- Bacterial Blight: This is a bacterial disease caused by Pseudomonas syringae, which causes the leaves to turn brown and fall off. Proper sanitation, removal of infected tissue and application of copper-based fungicides can effectively manage bacterial blight disease
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease caused by Colletotrichum species, which causes circular, sunken spots on the leaves and stems. It is vital to remove and destroy infected plant parts and utilize fungicidal sprays for the management of the disease.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman are:
- Leafhoppers: These are tiny, fast-moving insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves and transmit viral diseases. The best way to manage leafhoppers is to monitor their populations closely and utilize insecticide sprays at regular intervals.
- Cutworms: These are larvae of various moth species that cut through the plant's stem at ground level, causing the plant to wilt and die. To manage cutworms, it is crucial to inspect the base of the plant frequently and apply insecticide to the soil at the base of the plant.
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves and transmit viral diseases. Insecticidal soap sprays are effective in managing aphids.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny spider-like pests that suck sap from the plant's leaves and create a web-like covering. To manage spider mites, it is vital to ensure proper humidity levels and apply miticidal sprays.
In conclusion, effective disease and pest management through the use of proper sanitation practices, regular monitoring of populations, and timely utilization of chemical treatments can ensure the healthy growth and productivity of Glycine javanica L. var. claessensii (De Wild.) Hauman.
