Origin
Lotononis involucrata (P.J.Bergius) Benth. subsp. involucrata, commonly known as the round-leaf lotononis, is a species of legume that belongs to the Fabaceae family. Native to South Africa, this plant is found in many parts of the country, including the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Limpopo Province.
Common Names
Aside from round-leaf lotononis, this plant also goes by a variety of other names, including rooiwortel, red root, and phakamisela. In the English language, it is sometimes referred to as the clover bush or clover tree, due to its clover-like leaves.
Uses
Traditionally, Lotononis involucrata has been used for its medicinal properties, including the treatment of various ailments such as fever, stomach pain, and diarrhea. It is also said to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Additionally, this plant has potential use in agriculture, where it has been demonstrated to improve soil fertility.
General Appearance
The Lotononis involucrata is a highly variable plant that can grow anywhere from 0.3 to 3 meters in height. It has a shrubby appearance, with a dense crown of foliage and branches that spread outwards horizontally. The leaves are trifoliate, with leaflets that are almost circular in shape and light green in color. The plant produces small, bright yellow flowers that are clustered together in racemes. The pods are slender and cylindrical, with seeds that are dark brown or black in color.
Light Requirements
Lotononis involucrata grows best in areas with full sun exposure. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. It is recommended to provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm conditions and is suited for tropical and subtropical climates. The recommended temperature range for growth is between 18°C and 30°C (64°F and 86°F). It is important to note that this plant cannot tolerate frost and may die if exposed to temperatures below 0°C (32°F).
Soil Requirements
Lotononis involucrata grows well in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. This plant requires moderate levels of nutrients and can benefit from the addition of organic matter to the soil. It is also recommended to avoid waterlogged soils as this can cause root rot and affect overall plant health.
Cultivation Methods
Lotononis involucrata (P.J.Bergius) Benth. subsp. involucrata is a semi-deciduous shrub that is native to southern Africa. It grows best in well-draining soils that are slightly acidic, but can also thrive in neutral or slightly alkaline soils. It requires full sun exposure to grow correctly, and temperatures of between 20-30°C in summer and 5-15°C in winter.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering to grow, and it is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can damage the plant. Water the plant once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during winter when growth rates are low.
Fertilization
Fertilization is a key requirement for the growth and development of the plant. Apply a controlled release fertilizer at the beginning of each growing season to ensure continuous feeding as the plant grows. Alternatively, apply a water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. However, over-fertilizing can cause damage to the plant resulting in stunted growth.
Pruning
Pruning encourages bushier growth and helps maintain the plant's shape. Prune the plant during the late winter or early spring before the growing season resumes. Remove any damaged, diseased, or dead branches with sterile pruning equipment. Also, cut back some of the old wood to promote new growth. However, avoid cutting back more than one-third of the plant's total growth as it can stress the plant.
Propagation methods of Lotononis involucrata
Lotononis involucrata (P.J.Bergius) Benth. subsp. involucrata, commonly known as the "bobbejaanstert" in Afrikaans, is a perennial subshrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. This plant is endemic to South Africa and is widely distributed in the Western and Eastern Cape provinces. Propagation of Lotononis involucrata can be done through several methods, including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed propagation
Propagation of Lotononis involucrata through seeds is a viable option, but the availability of seeds from the wild may be limited. Seeds can be sown in a well-drained medium during spring or autumn. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist but not wet. Germination usually occurs within 2-4 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots when they are large enough to handle.
Stem cuttings
Propagation of Lotononis involucrata through stem cuttings is the most common method used by nurseries. Cuttings of approximately 5-10cm in length can be taken during the growing season, preferably in spring or summer. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained rooting medium, such as a mixture of sand and peat. The cuttings should be kept moist and placed in a shaded area until they have developed roots, which usually takes 4-8 weeks.
Division
Propagation of Lotononis involucrata through division is also possible, but it is best done during the early spring when new growth appears. The plant should be carefully dug up and the root ball separated into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy shoot, and the roots should be kept moist during the planting process. The new plants can be planted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Disease Management for Lotononis involucrata
The plant Lotononis involucrata is susceptible to several diseases such as Root Rot, Leaf Spot, and Powdery Mildew. Here are some of the ways that you can manage these diseases:
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by a fungus and can lead to wilting and death of the plant. To prevent Root Rot, ensure that your soil has proper drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. If you notice symptoms of Root Rot, remove the affected plant and dispose of it properly to prevent spreading the disease.
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by a fungus and appears as dark spots on the leaves. It can cause the leaves to yellow and drop prematurely. To manage Leaf Spot, it is important to keep the foliage dry by watering at the base of the plant. If necessary, use a fungicide to control the spread of the disease.
- Powdery Mildew: This disease is characterized by a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can cause stunted growth and reduce the plant's overall health. To manage Powdery Mildew, ensure that the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If necessary, use a fungicide to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Lotononis involucrata
In addition to diseases, Lotononis involucrata is also susceptible to pest infestations. Here are some common pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the plant's sap and can cause distorted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage an Aphid infestation, remove them from the plant by hand or use an insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and webbing on the plant's leaves. To manage Spider Mites, use a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant or use a miticide according to package instructions.
- Caterpillars: These larvae can eat through the plant's leaves and cause significant damage. To manage a Caterpillar infestation, remove them from the plant by hand or use an insecticide specifically targeting Caterpillars.
