Overview
Lotononis calycina (E.Mey.) Benth. var. acuta Dummer is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae. It is native to southern Africa and is commonly found in grassy habitats such as savannas and open woodlands.Common Names
This plant is known by several common names including the African jointvetch, acutely-lobed lotononis, and slender lotononis.Appearance
Lotononis calycina (E.Mey.) Benth. var. acuta Dummer is a small perennial herb that grows up to 30 cm tall. It has slender stems that are light green in color and slightly hairy. The leaves are trifoliate and have elliptic leaflets that are about 1-2 cm long and 0.5-1 cm wide. The flowers are small and yellow, and they are clustered in the leaf axils. The fruit is a small pod that contains several seeds.Uses
The African jointvetch has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes by some indigenous communities in southern Africa. The roots of the plant are believed to possess analgesic properties and have been used to treat headaches and toothaches. The plant is also known to have high nutritional value and is useful as a forage for livestock. Additionally, the plant has potential for soil conservation due to its ability to thrive in degraded areas and improve soil quality.Light Requirements
Lotononis calycina var. acuta requires full sun to partial shade in order to grow properly. It is important to ensure that the plant receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day, but it can also tolerate some shade. If grown indoors, placing the plant in a well-lit room near a window is recommended.
Temperature Requirements
For optimal growth, Lotononis calycina var. acuta prefers a temperature range of 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). However, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 5°C (41°F) and as high as 35°C (95°F) for short periods of time. It is important to protect the plant from frost and excessive heat as this can cause damage.
Soil Requirements
Lotononis calycina var. acuta grows best in well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It is important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged as this can cause root rot. Adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure can improve soil fertility and drainage. This plant can also grow in sandy soils but may require additional fertilization.
Cultivation
Lotononis calycina (E.Mey.) Benth. var. acuta Dummer, also known as the Cape broom, is a beautiful plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height and 2 meters in width. It is native to southern Africa and is relatively easy to grow.
The plant requires full sun exposure to grow healthy while requiring well-draining soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Before planting, loosen the soil and mix in organic compost to provide the necessary nutrients. Sow the seeds in spring in the prepared soil and cover with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge.
Watering Needs
Once the Cape broom is established, it requires moderate watering. Water the plant once a week during dry weather to keep the soil evenly moist. Overwatering will cause root rot and other problems. Observe the plant regularly to know when it needs watering.
Fertilization
Fertilize the Cape broom three times a year with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in spring, summer, and autumn to encourage healthy growth and beautiful flowers. Avoid applying fertilizer in winter as it may damage the plant.
Pruning
Prune the Cape broom regularly to maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming too leggy. Pruning also encourages flowering and healthy growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any diseased or dead branches, weak branches, and those that cross each other. Cut the branches just above the bud or side shoot.
Propagation of Lotononis calycina var. acuta
Lotononis calycina var. acuta is a perennial plant that is commonly propagated through seeds and cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The best time to sow the seeds of Lotononis calycina var. acuta is during the autumn season. The seeds require a pre-treatment, which can be achieved through nicking the seed coat or soaking them in hot water. After the pre-treatment, the seeds should be sown in a nursery bed filled with well-draining soil. To ensure that the seeds germinate successfully, keep the soil moist and warm. The seedlings should be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the field when they are about 15cm tall.
Cutting Propagation
The cuttings for Lotononis calycina var. acuta should be taken from the semi-hardwood of the plant during the summer season. The cuttings should be about 8 to 10cm long and should have at least two leaves attached to them. Dip the base of the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be watered and kept in a warm, humid place until they develop roots. The rooted cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the field.
Disease Management
Lotononis calycina var. acuta may be affected by a variety of plant diseases. One common disease is root rot, which can be caused by fungal infections like Phytophthora and Rhizoctonia. Symptoms of root rot include yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To prevent root rot, it is important to avoid overwatering and improve soil drainage. If root rot occurs, affected plants may need to be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Another disease that may affect Lotononis calycina var. acuta is powdery mildew, a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems. This disease can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation around plants and avoiding overhead watering. If powdery mildew occurs, affected plant parts should be removed and destroyed.
Leaf spot is another fungal disease that may affect the plant. It appears as small dark spots on the leaves, which may eventually result in leaf loss. To prevent leaf spot, it is important to avoid overhead watering and promote good air circulation. Fungicides may be used to treat severe cases of leaf spot.
Pest Management
Lotononis calycina var. acuta may also be affected by a variety of pests, including aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. Aphids are small green insects that suck sap from the plant and can cause yellowing and distortion of leaves. To prevent aphids, natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings may be introduced to the area. Insecticidal soap may also be used to control aphids.
Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the undersides of leaves, causing yellowing and stippling. To prevent spider mites, it is important to keep the plant well-watered and increase humidity around the plant. In severe cases, insecticidal soap or miticides may be used to control spider mites.
Caterpillars may also be a problem for Lotononis calycina var. acuta. Caterpillars can be controlled by handpicking, but insecticides may also be used in severe cases. It is important to choose insecticides that are specifically labeled for use on the plant to avoid damaging the plant or harming beneficial insects.
