Overview of Lotononis decumbens (Thunb.) B.-E.van Wyk subsp. decumbens
Lotononis decumbens (Thunb.) B.-E.van Wyk subsp. decumbens, also known as the creeping lotus, is a small herbaceous plant that belongs to the legume family, Fabaceae. This plant is native to South Africa and can be found in coastal regions, as well as in the Eastern Cape, Western Cape, and Northern Cape provinces.
General Appearance of Lotononis decumbens (Thunb.) B.-E.van Wyk subsp. decumbens
The creeping lotus plant has a prostrate or decumbent growth habit, with stems that are generally less than 30 cm in height. The leaves of this plant are green and trifoliate, with the leaflets being oval-shaped, 5-25 mm long, and a bright green color. The flowers of the creeping lotus are small and yellow, often having a distinctive dark center, and bloom from July to October. The fruit of this plant is a small, hairy, oblong pod that contains one or two seeds.
Common Names of Lotononis decumbens (Thunb.) B.-E.van Wyk subsp. decumbens
The creeping lotus plant is known by various common names, such as the Cape pea, Cape trefoil, Cape trailing rattlepod, trailing lotus, and the common lotus.
Uses of Lotononis decumbens (Thunb.) B.-E.van Wyk subsp. decumbens
Throughout history, the creeping lotus plant has been used for various medicinal purposes. Different parts of the plant, such as the roots, leaves, and stems, have been used to treat a range of ailments including homeopathic remedies for coughs and fever, and anti-diabetic properties. Additionally, this plant has a potential use as a cover crop because of its sprawling, drought-tolerant growth habit. The creeping lotus is also an attractive groundcover plant that can be used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscaping.
Light Requirements
Lotononis decumbens (Thunb.) B.-E.van Wyk subsp. decumbens is adapted to grow in full sunlight. It requires direct sunlight exposure for at least six hours per day to properly germinate and grow. If it is grown in shade or partial shade, its growth rate may be considerably slower, foliage may be less dense, and flowering events may be limited.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Lotononis decumbens (Thunb.) B.-E.van Wyk subsp. decumbens grows optimally in temperatures between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. It can grow in slightly higher or lower temperatures but may show slower growth, leaf discoloration, and leaf fall under these conditions. Frost is not tolerable for this plant as they can only survive temperatures above zero degree Celsius.
Soil Requirements
Lotononis decumbens (Thunb.) B.-E.van Wyk subsp. decumbens has a preference for well-draining soils that contain a good balance of nutrients, especially phosphorus and potassium. It thrives in loamy soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, but can grow in slightly more acidic soils. However, it does not tolerate extreme soil acidity or soil that is too alkaline. Heavy and compacted soils must be avoided as they can reduce root penetration and cause root rot.
Cultivation
Lotononis decumbens is best grown in full sun to partial shade in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be planted at a depth equal to that of the container, and the soil around it must be firmly pressed to eliminate any air pockets. This plant is drought-tolerant and should be watered sparingly to maintain good growth without water-logging the soil.
Watering Needs
This plant should receive frequent but shallow watering to maintain soil moisture. It is vital to avoid overwatering as it can result in rotting or harm the plant and reduce growth or flowering. The soil should be allowed to dry between watering intervals. It is crucial to keep the soil moist but not wet, especially during the growing season (spring and summer).
Fertilization
Lotononis decumbens requires little fertilization as excessive nitrogen will produce much leaf growth and reduce flowers. Fertilize the plant once per year during the late winter or early spring using a low-nitrogen fertilizer. Avoid the use of high-nitrogen fertilizers, which promote leaf and stem development at the expense of flowering. If the plant appears healthy, withholding fertilization is a better option.
Pruning
This plant requires occasional pruning. Pruning should be done in early spring to prevent excessive growth (up to one-third of the current growth can be removed). Remove any dead, broken, or diseased stems using sharp and sterilized pruning shears. Prune the plant after it has finished blooming. Deadheading spent blooms to encourage more flowering may also be done by cutting back to the nearest growth bud.
Propagation of Lotononis Decumbens
Lotononis decumbens (Thunb.) B.-E.van Wyk subsp. decumbens, commonly known as the prostrate bell bean, is a low-growing legume that is native to southern Africa. It is an attractive groundcover that features clusters of small, yellow, pea-shaped flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring.
Propagation Methods
Lotononis decumbens can be propagated by seed or cuttings. Here are some guidelines for each method:
Propagation by Seed
Seeds can be sown directly into the soil in autumn or spring. Before sowing, scarify the seeds by rubbing them with sandpaper or soaking them in hot water to improve germination rates. Plant the seeds about 1 cm deep, and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until germination occurs, which should take about 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings are established, they can be thinned to a spacing of about 30 cm apart.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Use sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears to take 6-8 cm-long cuttings from the tips of healthy stems. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix, and water it lightly. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or dome to maintain high humidity, and place it in a warm, bright location that is out of direct sunlight. Roots should begin to form in 2-3 weeks, at which point the cutting can be transplanted to a larger container or directly into the soil.
Whichever method you choose, Lotononis decumbens is a hardy plant that requires minimal maintenance, making it an excellent choice for a low-maintenance garden or landscape.
Disease and Pest Management of Lotononis decumbens
Lotononis decumbens (Thunb.) B.-E.van Wyk subsp. decumbens is a plant commonly found in South Africa and is often used in reclamation and erosion control. However, like any other plant species, it can be prone to certain diseases and pests. Here are some common ones to watch out for and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Leaf spot diseases: The most common leaf spot diseases that affect Lotononis decumbens are Cercospora spot and Curvularia spot. Symptoms include small, brown or black spots on the leaves that can coalesce and cause defoliation.
Management: Fungicide sprays are effective in managing these diseases. However, the key is to prevent the disease from spreading by removing diseased plant parts and improving air circulation around the plant.
2. Root rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi and can lead to wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant.
Management: Prevention is the best way to manage root rot. Make sure the plant has well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. If the plant is infected, remove affected parts and use a fungicide.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: These small insects suck the sap out of plant tissues, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves.
Management: Physically removing aphids with a strong jet of water and introducing natural predators like ladybugs can help manage an infestation.
2. Caterpillars: Some species of caterpillars feed on the foliage of Lotononis decumbens, causing defoliation and limiting plant growth.
Management: Handpicking larvae and using Bt-based insecticides (Bacillus thuringiensis) are effective ways to keep caterpillar populations in check.
By keeping an eye out for these common diseases and pests and practicing proper management techniques, Lotononis decumbens can thrive and be a valuable asset in any landscape or reclamation project.
