Overview
Macrotyloma chrysanthum (A.Chev.) Verdc. is a species of legume native to Africa. It goes by several common names including Yellow Bush Pea, Cameroon Bean, and Pea Bean. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is commonly found in the dry regions of West and Central Africa.
Appearance
Macrotyloma chrysanthum is a small, bushy plant that typically grows up to 50 cm in height. It has a deep root system that enables it to grow well in dry soil. The stems are thin, wiry, and often angular, with leaves that are made up of three lance-shaped leaflets. The flowers are pea-like and yellow in color, and they bloom from June to October. The fruit is a long, thin pod that contains up to four small seeds.
Uses
The seeds of Macrotyloma chrysanthum are an important source of food in Africa. They are high in protein and have similar nutritional qualities to other beans. The seeds can be cooked and eaten as a vegetable or used to make soups, stews, and sauces. The leaves and stem of the plant are also edible, but they are less commonly consumed.
Besides being used for food, Macrotyloma chrysanthum has other uses as well. In traditional medicine, it is used to treat several ailments, including stomachaches, diarrhea, and snakebites. The plant is also used as a shade crop to protect other crops like maize or millet from the sun.
Growth Conditions for Macrotyloma chrysanthum
Light: Macrotyloma chrysanthum requires full sunlight exposure to grow properly. The plant can tolerate partial shade, but it will not grow or flower as well as it would in full sun.
Temperature: The optimal temperature range for growing Macrotyloma chrysanthum is between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius. The plant is relatively tolerant to high temperatures and can survive in areas with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. However, it does not tolerate frost or temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, so it should be grown in warm climates.
Soil requirements: Macrotyloma chrysanthum requires well-draining, sandy loam soil. The plant prefers soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. It can tolerate soil with lower pH levels but does not do well in extremely acidic soil. The plant will not grow well if the soil is compacted or poorly drained.
Additionally, Macrotyloma chrysanthum can tolerate drought conditions but grows best with regular watering. The plant requires medium fertility soil and benefits from the addition of organic matter.
Cultivation Methods for Macrotyloma chrysanthum (A.Chev.) Verdc.
The first step in cultivating Macrotyloma chrysanthum (A.Chev.) Verdc. is to select a suitable site that receives abundant sunlight and provides good drainage. This plant prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. You can propagate Macrotyloma chrysanthum through seeds, which you should sow in well-prepared soil. You can also propagate it through cuttings.
Watering Needs for Macrotyloma chrysanthum (A.Chev.) Verdc.
Macrotyloma chrysanthum (A.Chev.) Verdc. requires moderate watering. You should water it thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. However, you should not overwater the plant as it is susceptible to root rot. The frequency of watering depends on the prevailing environmental conditions and the soil type and drainage. Ensure that the plant has good drainage to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilization of Macrotyloma chrysanthum (A.Chev.) Verdc.)
Macrotyloma chrysanthum (A.Chev.) Verdc. is a leguminous plant and can fix atmospheric nitrogen. However, you can apply nitrogen-based fertilizers to boost the growth and yield of the plant. Apply phosphorus and potassium-based fertilizers sparingly as the plant already has adequate levels from the soil. You can also add organic matter such as compost to enhance soil fertility.
Pruning Macrotyloma chrysanthum (A.Chev.) Verdc.
Pruning is essential to remove diseased branches, enhance air circulation and light penetration. You should prune Macrotyloma chrysanthum (A.Chev.) Verdc. in late winter or early spring just before the growing season. Use sterilized pruning tools to reduce the likelihood of spreading diseases. Cut back the branches to lateral buds or the plant's main stem, depending on the size of the branch. You can also pinch off the developing tips of the plant to stimulate branching and enhance bushiness.
Propagation of Macrotyloma chrysanthum
Macrotyloma chrysanthum (A.Chev.) Verdc., commonly known as the shrubby groundnut, is a leguminous plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to tropical Africa and is a popular food crop in some parts of West Africa.
Propagation Methods:
1. Seeds: The most common propagation method for Macrotyloma chrysanthum is through seeds. The seeds should be collected from mature plants and sown in well-draining soil. They should be sown in rows or in a broadcasting manner, and covered lightly with soil.
2. Cuttings: Propagation through cuttings is another method that can be used for Macrotyloma chrysanthum. Semi-hardwood cuttings from mature plants can be taken and planted in a soil mix that is well-draining. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a shaded area until they establish roots.
3. Division: Another method of propagating Macrotyloma chrysanthum is through division. This method involves dividing the root system into smaller sections and replanting them in well-draining soil. This method is best done during the rainy season when the plant is actively growing.
4. Grafting: In some cases, grafting can be used to propagate Macrotyloma chrysanthum. This method involves attaching a scion from a desired plant onto a rootstock of another closely related plant. Grafting requires specialized skills and is not commonly used to propagate Macrotyloma chrysanthum.
Overall, Macrotyloma chrysanthum can be propagated using several methods, including seeds, cuttings, division, and grafting. Growers should choose the most appropriate method based on their resources and the conditions under which they intend to cultivate the plant.
Disease Management
Macrotyloma chrysanthum is susceptible to various diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, and viruses. Here are some of the common diseases that might affect the plant:
Anthracnose
This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves, stems, and pods. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plants, avoid planting in areas with high humidity, and apply fungicides.
Root Rot
Root rot is caused by a fungus that thrives in poorly drained soils. It causes the roots to rot and the plant to wilt and die. To manage root rot, improve soil drainage by adding organic matter, avoid overwatering, and apply fungicides.
Mosaic Virus
Mosaic virus causes mottling and distortion of the leaves. It is spread by aphids and other insects. To manage mosaic virus, remove and destroy infected plants, control insect populations, and plant resistant varieties.
Pest Management
Aside from diseases, Macrotyloma chrysanthum is also vulnerable to attacks from pests. Here are some of the common pests that might affect the plant:
Aphids
Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing them to wilt and distort. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil, remove and destroy heavily infested plant parts, and introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs.
Cutworms
Cutworms are caterpillars that chew through the stems, causing the plant to wilt and die. To manage cutworms, handpick and destroy the caterpillars, apply insecticides, and use collars made of cardboard or foil to protect the plant stems.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry out. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to wash off the pests, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil, and introduce predatory mites.
