Origin
Lotononis aristata Schinz is a native African plant that can be found in countries such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Botswana.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as the "Angel's Tears" or "Bitter Pea".
Uses
Lotononis aristata Schinz has various medicinal properties, it has been used to treat dysentery, fever and to relieve pain. Its powder extract is also used to reduce bleeding during childbirth. The plant is also popular among gardeners due to its bright yellow flowers and sprawling nature.
Appearance
Lotononis aristata Schinz is a perennial plant that belongs to the pea family, Fabaceae. It has delicate green leaves and small yellow flowers that bloom from June to November. The plant grows up to two feet tall and spreads up to four feet wide. The plant has a creeping and sprawling nature which allows it to form dense mats suitable for ground cover.
Growth Conditions for Lotononis aristata Schinz
Lotononis aristata Schinz requires specific growth conditions for optimal growth and development.
Light Requirements
The plant prefers full sunlight for at least six hours per day. Lack of adequate light may cause stunted growth and fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Lotononis aristata Schinz is between 16°C to 28°C. Temperatures below 15°C or above 30°C will slow down growth and development significantly. The plant can survive in temperatures as low as 10°C, but growth will be slow.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers sandy or loamy soils rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should range from 6.0 to 7.5. Poorly drained soils can cause root rot, which may lead to stunted growth and death. The soil should be well-drained, and watering should be done conservatively to avoid waterlogging.
Furthermore, the plant is relatively drought-tolerant and can survive in moderate drought conditions, but it thrives best with regular watering to maintain soil moisture.
Cultivation Methods
Lotononis aristata Schinz is a hardy plant and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. It can grow well in full sun or partial shade and requires well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. The plant can be propagated by seeds or cuttings, and it grows best in warm and humid conditions.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular and consistent watering during the growing season to maintain its foliage and blooming. However, it should not be overwatered as it can lead to root rot and other diseases. The soil must be allowed to dry out slightly before the next watering, and care must be taken not to get the foliage wet when watering.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization to maintain its growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 can be applied every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid applying fertilizer when the plant is not actively growing, and always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using fertilizers.
Pruning
Lotononis aristata Schinz requires minimal pruning as it is a low-maintenance plant. However, deadheading spent flowers regularly can encourage the plant to produce more blooms. The plant can be pruned lightly after flowering to maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming too leggy. Remove any dead or damaged branches and stems to keep the plant healthy.
Propagation of Lotononis aristata Schinz
Lotononis aristata Schinz, also known as the chicken bush, is a perennial shrub that is native to southern Africa. It is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of conditions, including hot and dry climates. Propagation of this plant can be done through different methods.
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Lotononis aristata Schinz is by using seeds. The seeds can be collected from mature plants and then stored until the planting season. Seeds should be sown in seedling trays or in nursery beds during the early spring. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1cm and spaced about 10cm apart. To ensure good germination, the soil should be kept moist and at a temperature of around 20°C. Germination can take anywhere from one to three weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
The propagation of Lotononis aristata Schinz can be done through stem cuttings. Taking hardwood cuttings should be done during the dormant season, which is during the winter. Cuttings should be taken from about 8-10cm long with a diameter of about 0.5-1cm. The cuttings should be planted in a well-prepared soil mix made up of sand, compost, and loam. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The cuttings should be kept in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight. The cuttings should root in 4-6 weeks.
Division Propagation
If the Lotononis aristata Schinz plant has grown noticeably larger, it can be propagated through division. This method helps to make the plant bushier and can be done during the growing season. The plant should be carefully uprooted and then divided into smaller plants. It is important to ensure that each division has enough roots and new shoots to ensure it can independently grow. Once divided, the smaller plants should be replanted immediately in a well-prepared soil mix. They should be kept moist until they have adjusted to their new environment.
Disease Management
Lotononis aristata Schinz is vulnerable to various diseases, including root rot, leaf spots, and powdery mildew. The plants can be affected by these diseases due to poor soil drainage, humid conditions, or contaminated farming tools. To prevent root rot, it is essential to improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering, while controlling humidity can also help prevent powdery mildew and leaf spots. Sanitizing farming equipment regularly can further help prevent the spread of diseases. In case of infection, removing the affected parts and applying suitable fungicides can help manage these diseases effectively.
Pest Management
The most common pests affecting Lotononis aristata Schinz plants are aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can cause damage to the leaves and may negatively impact the plant's growth and vigor. Early detection and intervention are essential to manage pest infestations effectively. Encouraging natural predators like birds and predatory insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can be an effective solution. Using insecticidal soaps or oils and insecticides that are specific to the pests can also help manage pest infestations. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when using these products and to ensure that they are applied at the appropriate time and rate.
