Overview
Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. is a small tropical plant that belongs to the family Poaceae, commonly known as grasses. This species of grass is commonly found in West and Central Africa, such as in the Congo, Nigeria, and Cameroon. The plant has been used for various purposes, including traditional medicine and as a source of food for both humans and animals.
General Appearance
Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. is a compact annual or perennial grass, which can grow up to 50 cm in height. The leaves of the plant are linear and are around 5-15 cm long and 2-6 mm wide. The leaf margin is smooth, and the leaf blade is flat and smooth. The stem of Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. is slender and erect, and it can have a purplish tint. The flowers are arranged in a spike-like inflorescence of 2-4 cm long.
Common Names
Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. is known by various common names, depending on the region where it is found. In Nigeria, it is known as "Epo-akara" or "Epo-odo," meaning "bean oil" or "cauliflower oil" respectively, which refers to the oil extract from the seeds. In Cameroon, it is called "Kengué," "Eca": and "Nta tcha," while in Congo, it is known as "Bilekensie" or "Paka yulu."
Uses
Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. is widely used in traditional medicine in West Africa for the treatment of various conditions, including inflammation, pain, and fever. The plant contains bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and alkaloids, which have been found to possess medicinal properties. Additionally, its seeds are used for food purposes, such as for oil extraction or as a substitute for soybean in food products.
Moreover, Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. is also used as a fodder for grazing animals, particularly cattle, and as a soil stabilizer to prevent soil erosion.
Light Requirements
Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. requires bright but indirect sunlight to grow properly. It is recommended to place the plant near a bright window, where it can receive the required amount of sunlight without being exposed to direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in a warm and humid environment. The ideal temperature range for Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. is between 20°C and 25°C. Sudden temperature fluctuations or exposure to extreme temperatures may affect the growth and development of the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives in soil that has a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. It is recommended to mix the soil with peat moss, perlite, or vermiculite to enhance water retention, aeration, and drainage.
Cultivation of Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild.
Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. prefers a warm climate with high humidity. It grows well in well-drained soil with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. The plant can be propagated through seed, stem cuttings, and division of clumps.
Watering Needs of Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild.
Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. requires regular watering during the growing season, and it is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It is important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. During the dormant season, watering should be reduced.
Fertilization of Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild.
Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. requires regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. The fertilizer should be applied every two months during the growing season. The amount of fertilizer applied should be adjusted according to the growth of the plant. It is important to avoid over-fertilization as this can lead to the burning of the roots.
Pruning of Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild.
Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth. Pruning should be done in the fall or early spring before the start of the growing season. Dead, damaged, or diseased stems should be removed, and any crossing branches should be pruned to maintain an open structure.
Propagation of Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild.
Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. can be propagated by the following methods:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. can be sown in a seedbed or potting tray filled with well-draining soil. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 2-3 times their width. Lightly water the soil after sowing. The seeds will germinate within 2-4 weeks, depending on the temperature and humidity levels. Once the seedlings have developed 2-3 true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Cuttings propagation
Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. can be propagated by taking stem cuttings during the growing season. Use a clean and sharp pair of scissors to cut a 4-6 inch long stem with at least 2-3 nodes. Strip off the bottom leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Insert the cutting into a pot filled with well-draining soil and keep it in a warm and humid environment. The cutting will develop roots within 4-6 weeks. Once the roots have formed, transplant the cutting into a larger pot.
Division propagation
Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. can be propagated by dividing the clumps during the growing season. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections, making sure each section has at least one shoot and a portion of the root system. Plant each division in a pot filled with well-draining soil and water it thoroughly. Keep the pot in a shaded location for a few days until the plant has acclimatized to its new environment.
Disease Management
Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. Here are some common diseases that may affect this plant:
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes leaf spots, stem cankers, and fruit rot. To manage it, remove infected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Apply fungicides as recommended by a local extension agent.
- Leaf spot: This is also a fungal disease that causes small brown spots on the leaves. To manage it, remove infected leaves and prune any overcrowded branches to improve air circulation. Apply fungicides as recommended by a local extension agent.
- Root rot: This is a soil-borne fungal disease that affects the roots, causing wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. To manage it, avoid overwatering and improve soil drainage. Apply fungicides as recommended by a local extension agent.
Pest Management
Listrostachys dewevrei De Wild. is also susceptible to several pests that can cause damage to the plant. The following are some common pests and ways to manage them:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and distort. To manage them, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mites: These are tiny, spider-like insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage them, spray the plant with a miticide recommended by a local extension agent.
- Caterpillars: These are larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the leaves, causing holes and defoliation. To manage them, handpick them from the plant or spray the plant with a biological insecticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis.
