Origin
Lotononis bolusii Dummer, commonly known as the Bolus' lotononis, is native to southern Africa, particularly in Angola and Namibia.
Common Names
Besides Bolus' lotononis, this plant also goes by other common names such as Bolus lotononis, Bushveld pea, Barbellate lotononis, and Boesveldertjie.
Uses
Lotononis bolusii Dummer has no known medicinal or commercial uses. However, it is an ornamental plant often grown in gardens because of its bright yellow pea-shaped flowers that bloom from August to October.
General Appearance
Lotononis bolusii Dummer is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 1 meter tall. It has oval-shaped leaves with serrated edges and a hairy texture. The flowers grow in clusters at the end of the branches and have bright yellow petals with a red or orange center. The fruit is a thin, elongated pod filled with small seeds. Overall, Bolus' lotononis has a highly attractive and uniform appearance that adds beauty to any garden space.
Light Requirements
Lotononis bolusii Dummer requires full sun for optimal growth. It cannot tolerate shade or partial shade as it needs a lot of sunlight to thrive. Therefore, it is best to plant it in an open area where it can receive direct sunlight. Insufficient light can lead to stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Lotononis bolusii Dummer is a warm-season plant and needs a warm environment to grow. The optimal temperature range for this plant is between 20°C to 35°C. Temperatures above 40°C may cause damage to the plant, leading to wilting or death. Therefore, it is important to protect the plant from intense heat and provide shade during very hot weather.
Soil Requirements
Lotononis bolusii Dummer thrives in well-drained, sandy, or loamy soil. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH of between 6.0 to 6.5. The plant doesn't tolerate waterlogged soil as this can lead to root rot. It is recommended to add some organic matter such as compost or manure to the soil to help improve its structure and fertility. The plant also requires some fertilization to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Cultivation Methods
Lotononis bolusii Dummer can be grown using both seeds and cuttings. For seed germination, it is essential to provide moist, well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The plant thrives in warm, sunny locations and is vulnerable to frost. It can also be propagated through cuttings, preferably in spring or summer.
Watering Needs
The plant should be watered regularly, depending on the temperature and humidity levels. However, overwatering can cause root rot, so it is essential to allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions. It is also advisable to water directly on the soil, avoiding getting water on the leaves to prevent fungal infections.
Fertilization
Lotononis bolusii Dummer requires moderate fertilization, and it is important to strike a balance between under and overfertilization. Fertilizers rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are ideal. They can be applied once a month during the growing season, usually in spring and summer.
Pruning
Pruning is not required for Lotononis bolusii Dummer, but it can help to encourage branching, increasing the number of flower heads. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring. The process involves cutting off the older, woody growth and shaping the plant. Deadheading can also help to maintain the plant's appearance by removing spent blooms and preventing seed formation.
Propagation of Lotononis bolusii Dummer
Lotononis bolusii Dummer can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation, hardwood cuttings, and division.
Seed propagation
The seeds of Lotononis bolusii Dummer are sown in a well-draining potting mix. The potting mix should be kept moist, but not soggy. The seeds will typically germinate within 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a suitable size, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Hardwood cuttings
Hardwood cuttings of Lotononis bolusii Dummer are taken during the dormant season when the plant is not actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth, and should be about 6-8 inches in length. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, and dip the base in rooting hormone. Insert the cutting into a well-draining potting mix, and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Rooting should occur within 6-8 weeks.
Division
Lotononis bolusii Dummer can be propagated through division in early spring or fall. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the roots into smaller sections. Replant each section into a well-draining potting mix or directly into the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Lotononis bolusii Dummer
Lotononis bolusii Dummer is a species of legume that grows in South Africa and Eswatini. While this plant is generally hardy, it is still susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can affect its growth and productivity. Proper disease and pest management are key to ensuring the health of your Lotononis bolusii Dummer plants.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Lotononis bolusii Dummer is root rot. This disease is caused by a variety of fungi that thrive in moist soil and can lead to the death of the plant if left untreated. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plants. If root rot is detected, immediately remove the affected plant and discard it so as not to infect other plants.
Another disease that affects Lotononis bolusii Dummer is powdery mildew. This disease is characterized by a white, powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure that the plants receive adequate air circulation and that they are not overcrowded. If powdery mildew is detected, prune affected plant parts, and apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that affect Lotononis bolusii Dummer is the legume pod borer. This pest feeds on the plant's pods, causing them to wither and drop prematurely. To prevent infestations, regularly inspect the plants for signs of pod borers and remove any affected pods. You can also use insecticides to control the pest population.
Another pest that can affect Lotononis bolusii Dummer is the aphid. These small insects feed on the plant's sap and can cause stunted growth and the spread of viruses. To prevent aphid infestation, regularly inspect the plants and remove any affected parts. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pest population.
In conclusion, proper disease and pest management are essential for the healthy growth and productivity of Lotononis bolusii Dummer plants. By following the tips outlined above, you can effectively prevent and manage the most common diseases and pests that affect this species of legume.
