Introduction
Ipomoea tambelensis Baker, also known as Tambel bean, is a perennial climbing vine belonging to the family Convolvulaceae. It is native to tropical regions of Africa, particularly in Angola, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Common Names
The plant has a few colloquial names in the regions where it grows. The people in Angola refer to it as Tajuti, while the Bemba people of Zambia call it Umututamunwe. In Zimbabwe, it is known as Mutsavaviri or Chaga.
Description
Ipomoea tambelensis is a robust climber that grows up to 10 meters long. The leaves are heart-shaped, alternate, and measure up to 15 cm long and 20 cm wide. The plant's flowering period spans from December to February, during which it produces funnel-shaped flowers that are white or pink and about 5 cm in diameter. After pollination, the plant produces fruits in capsules that contain four seeds. The seeds are small, white, and oval-shaped, measuring roughly 1 cm long and 0.5 cm wide.
Uses
Ipomoea tambelensis has both medicinal and food value. The seeds contain a fatty oil that is edible and can be extracted through boiling. The oil contains high levels of essential fatty acids, which are essential to the human body. The plant also has therapeutic value that the local communities have exploited. The roots are used to treat various ailments such as sore throat, fever, and stomach ache, while the crushed leaves are used for skin irritations and to treat rashes. The roots are also used as a remedy for snakebites and spider bites.
Light Requirement
The Ipomoea Tambelensis Baker plant prefers full sunlight exposure for proper growth and development. It can tolerate partial shade but grows best under full or direct sunlight exposure. Insufficient sunlight exposure may affect plant growth, flowering, and seed formation.
Temperature Requirement
The plant can grow in typical tropical climates, and it can tolerate high temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C. Cold temperatures, especially below 10°C, are unsuitable for the plant’s growth and development. It can also tolerate drought conditions as long as it receives sufficient water.
Soil Requirement
The Ipomoea Tambelensis Baker can grow in different types of soils as long as it is well-drained, fertile, and rich in organic matter. The plant thrives best in loamy soils that hold moisture without becoming water-logged. A soil pH of 6 to 7 is optimal for best growth. However, it can tolerate slightly acidic soil conditions as low as pH 5. The addition of organic manure or compost to the soil can improve the plant's growth and yield.
Cultivation methods for Ipomoea tambelensis Baker
The Ipomoea tambelensis Baker, commonly known as the Tambelensis morning glory, is cultivated as an ornamental plant. The plant prefers full-sunlight and fertile, well-draining soils. The Tambelensis morning glory is drought-tolerant and does well in hot summers.
The plant can be propagated from the seeds. To plant, sow the seeds in a well-prepared soil bed at least 1 cm deep and spaced at 15-20 cm apart. Cover the seeds with soil and then water generously. The seeds will germinate in 5-7 days.
Watering needs of Ipomoea tambelensis Baker
The Tambelensis morning glory requires moderate watering. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil moist. Avoid over-watering since it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
An excellent way to determine whether the Tambelensis morning glory needs watering is by observing the leaves. If the leaves appear dull, then it's time to water the plant.
Fertilization needs of Ipomoea tambelensis Baker
The Tambelensis morning glory requires regular feeding to support its growth cycle. Typically, the plant will require nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus for healthy growth.
You can apply a slow-release granular fertilizer to the plant bed before sowing the seeds. Alternatively, you can use a liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
Pruning of Ipomoea tambelensis Baker
Pruning the Tambelensis morning glory will help maintain the plant's shape and promote bushy growth. The best time to prune the plant is in autumn or winter when the plant is dormant.
Remove all the dead or diseased stems, leaves, and flowers. Cutting the plant back to the lower nodes will promote new growth during the next growing season.
It's also essential to remove any suckers that may be growing from the base of the plant.
Propagation of Ipomoea Tambelensis Baker
Ipomoea tambelensis Baker, also known as Tambelulu, is a climbing plant that belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. It is native to Africa and South Asia and is commonly found in tropical regions. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation of Ipomoea tambelensis Baker by seed is the most common method. The plant produces seeds that can be collected and sowed during the planting season. The seeds are usually soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing to soften the seed coat and hasten germination. Plant the seeds in well-drained soil and keep them moist until germination.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings are also a viable method of propagating Ipomoea tambelensis Baker. Take cuttings of the plant during the active growth period from the tip or middle part of the stem. Cuttings should be around 10-15cm in length and stripped of leaves from the bottom third of the stem. Plant the cuttings in a well-drained, moist soil mix and ensure that the soil is kept moist. The cuttings should root in about 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by Layering
Propagation of Ipomoea tambelensis Baker can also be done through air layering. This method involves making a small cut on a stem and then applying rooting hormone. After that, a small ball of soil is placed around the cut and secured with plastic wrap. Roots should form in about 4-6 weeks, and the plant can be transplanted to its final location.
Conclusion
Overall, Ipomoea tambelensis Baker can be propagated through various methods, including seed, cuttings, and layering. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best method for propagation will depend on the grower's preferences and resources.
Disease and Pest Management of Ipomoea tambelensis Baker
Ipomoea tambelensis Baker, commonly known as Tambelang vine, is a tropical climbing plant that belongs to the Convolvulaceae family. The plant is highly valued for its attractive appearance and therapeutic properties. However, like other plants, the Tambelang vine is also susceptible to diseases and pests that can cause significant economic losses if not well managed. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Fungal Diseases: The Tambelang vine is highly susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust which can cause defoliation and stunted growth of the plant. To manage fungal diseases, it is recommended to remove and burn any infected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides such as copper-based compounds.
Bacterial Diseases: Bacterial diseases such as bacterial wilt and leaf blight can also affect the Tambelang vine. These diseases are commonly spread through infected seeds, soil, and plant debris. To manage bacterial diseases, it is recommended to practice crop rotation, ensure proper drainage, and apply copper-based bactericides.
Common Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that cause damage to the Tambelang vine by sucking sap from the plant's leaves. These pests usually thrive in dry and dusty conditions and can be controlled by regularly spraying the plant with water and applying insecticides such as pyrethroids.
Caterpillars: The caterpillars of various moth species such as the armyworm and cutworm can also cause damage to the Tambelang vine by feeding on the leaves and stem. These pests can be controlled by handpicking or applying Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticides.
Thrips: Thrips are small pests that feed on the Tambelang vine's leaves and flowers, causing considerable damage to the plant's growth. These pests can be controlled by applying insecticides such as neem oil or soap sprays.
In summary, effective disease and pest management are critical in ensuring the health and productivity of Ipomoea tambelensis Baker. It is essential to regularly monitor the plant for signs of diseases and pests and take appropriate measures to prevent their spread and control their populations when detected.
