Origin
Lotononis digitata Harv. is a native plant species of South Africa.
Common Names
It is commonly known as the Finger Leaf Pea, also referred to as the Kraal Pea.
Uses
The plant is often used as a medicinal herb in traditional African medicine. The roots and leaves of the plant possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it useful in the treatment of various pains, from toothache to rheumatism. The plant is also believed to help with blood purification and fever. In addition to its medicinal uses, Lotononis digitata is also used for erosion control and as a fodder for livestock due to its high protein content.
General Appearance
Lotononis digitata is a sprawling annual or perennial plant that grows up to 1 m tall. The plant is characterized by its distinctively shaped leaves, which are finger-like, trifoliate, and arranged alternately on the stem. The leaves are a medium, greyish-green colour with a velvety texture. The plant produces small yellow or orange flowers in spring and summer, which are followed by elongated seed pods. The roots of the plant are long, thin, and have a woody texture.
Growth Conditions of Lotononis digitata Harv.
Light: Lotononis digitata Harv. prefers full sunlight to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may result in stunted growth and fewer flowers.
Temperature: Lotononis digitata Harv. grows best in warm to hot temperatures, ranging from 20°C to 35°C. It is not frost tolerant, and temperatures below 10°C could seriously damage the plant.
Soil: Lotononis digitata Harv. prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH ranging between 5.5 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to loamy soils.
Water: Lotononis digitata Harv. is moderately drought-tolerant but performs best with regular watering during the growing season. It is crucial to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other related issues.
Fertilizer: Lotononis digitata Harv. can benefit from an annual application of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during early spring. It is essential to follow the application instructions as over-fertilization could harm the plant.
Cultivation methods for Lotononis digitata Harv.
The Lotononis digitata Harv. is a hardy, perennial plant that thrives under full sunlight or partially shaded areas. It grows well in well-draining soils with moderate fertility that are free of waterlogging.
The plant can be propagated by seeds or vegetatively by stem cuttings. Propagation by seeds is best done during the spring season after scarification. On the other hand, stem cuttings can be rooted in a moist, well-drained rooting medium under shade, and transplanted to a permanent location after 3-4 months.
Watering needs of Lotononis digitata Harv.
Lotononis digitata Harv. requires moderate watering that supports optimal growth without causing water stress or waterlogging. Overwatering may cause root rot and fungal infections, while under-watering can lead to stunted growth and reduced yield. During the rainy season, the plant can survive with rainfall, but in dry weather, watering should be done regularly.
The best way to water is by using irrigation systems such as drip or sprinkler irrigation to reduce water wastage and to ensure that water reaches the root zone without wetting the leaves or flowers.
Fertilization for Lotononis digitata Harv.
The plant requires moderate fertilization to support optimal growth and yield. The best soil fertility range for Lotononis digitata Harv. is a pH of 6.0-7.0. If the soil is acidic, liming should be done to raise the pH level to the desired range. Addition of compost manure, phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen-rich fertilizers (e.g., NPK 15:15:15) is recommended to improve soil fertility and support optimal plant growth.
Fertilization should be done after 6-8 weeks of planting or during the growing season annually. This enables the plant to utilize nutrients efficiently and supports optimal plant growth.
Pruning of Lotononis digitata Harv.
Pruning helps in shaping the plant, and it also serves as a form of pest control. Pruning should be done at the beginning of the growing season or after flowering is complete. Dead or diseased stems should be removed to prevent the spread of diseases to other parts of the plant. Stems and branches should be cut back to promote lateral branching, which encourages the growth of more flowers.
Pruning also helps in the removal of weeds, stimulates growth, and increases air circulation, which reduces the risk of diseases and pests. Always use sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the healthy parts of the plant.
Propagation of Lotononis digitata Harv.
Lotononis digitata Harv., also known as finger leaved clover, is a fast-growing, leguminous shrub commonly found in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. Propagation of Lotononis digitata Harv. can be done through various methods.
Seed propagation
Propagation through seed is the easiest and most economical method. It is important to select healthy and mature seeds before planting. Seeds can be scarified to enhance their germination rate. The scarification process involves scratching or nicking the hard seed coat to allow water and air to penetrate.
Once the seeds have been scarified, they should be soaked in water overnight to rehydrate. After that, they are ready to be sowed in the prepared bed at a depth of about 1 cm. Water the bed regularly but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to seed rot. Germination typically occurs within 10-15 days, and the resulting seedlings can be transplanted once they develop their first true leaves.
Cuttings propagation
Propagation of Lotononis digitata Harv. through cuttings is also possible. The best time for taking cuttings is during the rainy season when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from the current year's growth, and the length should be about 10-15 cm.
Before planting, remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Place the cutting in a pot or directly into the soil in a shaded area with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and avoid direct sunlight. Within 2-3 weeks, the cutting should develop roots.
Division propagation
Propagation through division involves separating the plant into smaller sections. This method can be used for mature plants that have outgrown their growing space. The best time to divide the plant is during the dormant season.
Dig out the entire plant, and separate it into smaller sections using a sharp, sterilized tool. Plant each smaller section into a well-prepared bed with well-draining soil and water thoroughly after planting. Mulching the new plants with organic matter will help conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Disease Management for Lotononis digitata Harv.
Lotononis digitata Harv. is generally a healthy plant with no widespread reports of diseases. However, as with all plants, it can be affected by diseases such as root and stem rots, wilts, and leaf spots.
To manage these diseases, it's essential to provide optimal cultural management practices such as planting in well-drained soil, avoiding over-fertilizing and overwatering, and maintaining good hygiene by promptly removing fallen leaves and infected plant parts. In case of severe infections, fungicides can be used as a last resort.
Pest Management for Lotononis digitata Harv.
Several pests can attack Lotononis digitata Harv., including thrips, aphids, and mealybugs.
To manage these pests, it's essential to maintain good plant hygiene by removing plant debris and prevent overcrowding which provides favorable conditions for pests. Insecticides like neem oil spray can be used to control aphids and mealybugs, while yellow sticky traps can help capture thrips.
It's important to monitor the plant regularly to identify and manage pest problems promptly. Adequate pest management practices will help ensure the plant's health and vigor while reducing the need for chemical controls.
