Origin and Common Names
Lotononis fruticoides B.-E.van Wyk is a flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is commonly known as the Cherry Bean or Rooischokolaa. The plant is native to South Africa and is mostly found in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and Northern Cape provinces.
General Appearance
The Cherry Bean is a small, evergreen shrub that grows up to 1 meter height and spread. The roots are woody and can delve deep into the soil to draw water and nutrients. The leaves are small, about 1 cm long, and have three leaflets that are narrow and pointed. The leaves are arranged in such a way that they form a rosette at the tip of each branch. The branches are thin, wiry, and have a reddish-brown color.
During the flowering season, which takes place from July to September, the plant produces numerous bright red flowers in clusters. The flowers are small, about 1 cm in diameter, and are shaped like a pea flower. They have a sweet scent that attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. After the flowering season, the plant produces small fruits that are about 1 cm long. The fruits are green at first, turning brown when mature.
Uses
The Cherry Bean has various uses. The plant has medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat stomach problems like ulcers, constipation, and diarrhea. The roots and leaves of the plant are boiled and the resulting solution is taken orally as a treatment for the said conditions.
The plant is also used as a forage crop for livestock. The leaves and stems of the plant are used as animal feed as they are rich in protein. The plant is also used as a nitrogen fixer as it can enrich the soil with nitrogen, making it suitable for growing other crops.
In conclusion, Lotononis fruticoides B.-E.van Wyk, commonly known as the Cherry Bean or Rooischokolaa, is a small, evergreen shrub that is native to South Africa. It has medicinal properties, is used as animal feed, and acts as a nitrogen fixer. The plant produces bright red flowers that attract pollinators and small fruits that turn brown when mature.
Light Requirements
Lotononis fruticoides, commonly known as the cape bush clover, requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and flowering. The plant can tolerate partial shade, but its growth and flowering will be adversely affected.
Temperature Requirements
The cape bush clover grows best in warm and dry climates. It is tolerant of high temperatures but can become dormant during periods of extreme heat. The plant is susceptible to frost damage and cannot withstand temperatures below -5°C.
Soil Requirements
Lotononis fruticoides prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils. The plant can tolerate slightly acidic to alkaline soils with a pH range of 5.8 to 8.5. However, it does not thrive in heavy clay soils and is intolerant of waterlogging.
Cultivation of Lotononis fruticoides B.-E.van Wyk
Lotononis fruticoides B.-E.van Wyk thrives in well-drained soil that is light, sandy, or gravelly, with perfect sun exposure. The plant can withstand periods of drought, but still prefers regular watering. It grows naturally in dry, sandy soil and is drought-resistant. It is, however, sensitive to severe frost and might not tolerate frosty conditions.
Watering Needs for Lotononis fruticoides B.-E.van Wyk
It is best to ensure that the planting area drains well and is not waterlogged, particularly in the winter months. Water the plant once a week in the summer months, ideally in the early morning or late afternoon, to prevent evaporation. During the winter months, watering may significantly reduce, because the dormant plant necessitates less moisture. Keep in mind that overwatering might lead to root rot.
Fertilization of Lotononis fruticoides B.-E.van Wyk
The Lotononis fruticoides B.-E.van Wyk plant benefits from fertilization with slow-release fertilizer in the early spring seasons. The fertilizer application should be in moderation and based on the packaging instructions. For best results, use a 2:3:4 ratio of Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium (NPK), or a fertilizer with a similar nutrient composition. It should be noted that too much fertilizer might increase vegetation growth in relation to flower production.
Pruning of Lotononis fruticoides B.-E.van Wyk
Pruning should be carried out once the blooming season has ended, typically during the late winter or early spring seasons (Gardening Know How). Cut back while leaving only a few inches of the previous year's woody growth. Without appropriate pruning, the plant might become untidy and unstable when overgrowth and extended branches increase the possibility of broken branches and collapsing stems.
Propagation methods of Lotononis fruticoides B.-E.van Wyk
Lotononis fruticoides B.-E.van Wyk, commonly known as shrubby lespedeza or shrubby bush clover, is a deciduous plant belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is endemic to African savannas and is widely used for erosion control, soil improvement, and livestock grazing. The plant can reproduce both sexually and asexually.
Sexual propagation
Sexual propagation of Lotononis fruticoides B.-E.van Wyk requires seeds, which are produced in pods after maturity. The pods should be collected when they are dry and brown, and the seeds should be separated from the pods. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting to break dormancy. The seeds can be planted directly in the field or in trays filled with a well-drained planting medium. The best time to sow the seeds is in spring when the soil temperature is above 15°C. The seeds should be covered with soil lightly and kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination should take place within 2-4 weeks.
Asexual propagation
Asexual propagation of Lotononis fruticoides B.-E.van Wyk can be achieved through stem cuttings and layering. Stem cuttings are taken from the young branches, preferably in late summer or early autumn. The cuttings should be 10-15 cm in length, stripped of leaves from the lower half, dipped in rooting hormone, and planted in a well-drained planting medium. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a warm and humid environment until roots develop. Layering involves bending the branches of the parent plant to the ground and covering them with soil. Roots should develop from the covered nodes within a few months, and the new plants can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted into a new location.
Disease and Pest Management for Lotononis fruticoides B.-E.van Wyk
Lotononis fruticoides B.-E.van Wyk is a resilient plant that can get affected by diseases and pests. It is crucial to take the necessary precautions and measures to prevent the spread of these diseases and pests. Below are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect Lotononis fruticoides B.-E.van Wyk and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Root rot: This is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot, leading to reduced nutrient uptake and plant death. It is caused by overwatering and poorly drained soil. To manage root rot, ensure the plant is grown in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Leaf spot: This is another fungal disease that affects the leaves, causing brown spots that eventually lead to leaf drop. To manage leaf spot, remove and dispose of affected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
Virus: Lotononis fruticoides B.-E.van Wyk can be susceptible to various viruses that cause stunted growth and distorted leaves. There is no cure for viruses, so the best way to manage them is to prevent the introduction of infected plants into the garden and practice good hygiene.
Pests
Aphids: These tiny insects suck the plant sap, leading to stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or use insecticidal soaps.
Spider mites: These are common pests that feed on the plant's leaves, leading to yellowing and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, keep the air around the plant humid, and use insecticidal soaps or neem oil.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies that eat the plant's leaves, leading to holes and defoliation. To manage caterpillars, handpick them off the plant or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray.
By practicing good hygiene, such as sterilizing tools between pruning and removing debris around the plant, you can prevent the spread of diseases and pests among your plants. Remember to always read and follow the instructions on any pesticides used to avoid harming the plant or other beneficial insects.
