Overview
Macrotyloma hockii (De Wild.) Verdc. is a plant species in the Fabaceae family and is native to tropical Africa. The plant is known for its various medicinal properties and is used as a food source in some African communities.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as cura, horse gram, and bako in various African countries.
Appearance
Macrotyloma hockii is an herbaceous plant that can grow up to 2 meters tall. Its leaves are small with three to four pairs of leaflets, and its flowers are often yellow or green. The fruit is a long pod that contains several seeds.
Uses
Macrotyloma hockii has been used in African traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments such as diabetes, malaria, and kidney problems. The plant's seed is also used as a food source in some African communities to prepare dishes such as porridge, soups or salads. In addition, studies have shown that the plant's extract has hypoglycemic and antioxidant properties, which may help lower blood sugar levels and prevent oxidative damage to cells.
Light requirements
Macrotyloma hockii (De Wild.) Verdc. requires full sunlight for optimal growth and development. It is not shade-tolerant and needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature requirements
The plant has a warm-weather preference and needs a hot and humid climate to thrive. The ideal temperature range for Macrotyloma hockii (De Wild.) Verdc. is 25-35°C. The minimum temperature requirement for this plant is 20°C, and it can tolerate maximum temperatures of up to 40°C.
Soil requirements
Macrotyloma hockii (De Wild.) Verdc. grows best in well-drained soils with good fertility. It can adapt to a wide range of soil types but prefers sandy and loamy soils. The pH range for the plant is 6.0-7.5, and it can tolerate moderately alkaline soils. The plant requires moderate watering and does not tolerate waterlogged soils or drought conditions.
Cultivation
Macrotyloma hockii is a perennial plant, a member of the legume family, and thrives in warm, tropical regions with well-draining soil. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is drought-resistant and can grow in dry conditions.
The seeds are sown directly into the ground or in pots. The seeds should be planted about 2.5 cm deep and kept moist until germination, which takes about 7 to 10 days. The plant starts to flower in about 70 to 90 days and should continue producing flowers for several months.
Watering Needs
Macrotyloma hockii requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. Overwatering can lead to fungal diseases and root rot. It is advisable to water in the early morning hours to prevent waterlogging the soil.
The plant can withstand drought but still needs to be watered occasionally. The frequency of watering will depend on the location and growing conditions of the plant.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization to encourage growth and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer with a nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium ratio of 8-8-8 or 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every two to three weeks during the growing season. Reduce fertilization during the dormant season.
Use organic compost or manure to enrich the soil. It is advisable to apply the fertilizers in the morning hours when the soil is still moist to avoid burning the plant's leaves.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Macrotyloma hockii. However, removing the spent flowers will increase the plant's energy and promote the growth of new flowers. Remove any diseased or dead branches promptly to prevent the spread of disease. Additionally, cutting back the plant in late winter or early spring can encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Macrotyloma Hockii (De Wild.) Verdc.
Propagation of Macrotyloma hockii is commonly done through seeds. The seeds should be collected when they are mature and have turned brown. The seeds should be cleaned and then soaked in water overnight before planting. Seeds that have not soaked up water can be placed in boiling water for five minutes in order to aid in their germination.
Before planting seeds, the soil should be tilled to create a fine texture that is suitable for planting. Seeds should be planted at depths of around 2-3 cm at intervals of 30cm within the rows, and about 60-75 cm between rows. The soil should be kept moist throughout the germination period.
Seedlings should start to emerge from the soil within 4-7 days after planting. At this point, it is important to thin the seedlings to maintain a distance of 20-25 cm between the plants in the row. This space allows for proper growth and ensures healthy plants.
Frequent weeding is necessary during the growth period to ensure the plants have enough space and nutrients to grow. Macrotyloma hockii is tolerant to drought and can withstand harsh climatic conditions. However, in the case that dry conditions persist, the plants should be watered to help with growth and seed yield.
After the plants have matured, the pods should be harvested and the seeds extracted. The seeds should be properly stored in a cool, dry place and can be used for planting in the next cycle.
Disease Management of Macrotyloma hockii
Macrotyloma hockii is relatively resistant to diseases. However, in the case of waterlogging in the field, it can be susceptible to root rot caused by soil-borne fungi. To manage this disease, the first thing to do is to avoid waterlogging by providing good drainage. If there are already signs of root rot, the plants can be treated with fungicides such as carbendazim or thiophanate-methyl.
Another disease that may affect Macrotyloma hockii is powdery mildew caused by the fungus Erysiphe pisi. To prevent powdery mildew, it is essential to maintain good air circulation and avoid prolonged leaf wetness. If the disease already exists, spraying with fungicides such as trifloxystrobin or tebuconazole can be helpful.
Pest Management of Macrotyloma hockii
Macrotyloma hockii is generally attacked by three insects: the pod fly, pod bug, and bruchid beetles. Pod fly, Melanagromyza obtusa, lays its eggs on young pods, and the larvae feed on the pod's inner wall, causing it to drop to the ground prematurely. To manage pod flies, remove the infested pods and destroy them. The use of insecticides such as neem, phosalone, or carbaryl can also be done.
The pod bug, Clavigralla tomentosicollis, sucks sap from developing pods, and heavy infestations can lead to young pods dropping off. This pest can be managed by the use of insecticides such as pyrethroids, carbamates, or organophosphates.
Bruchid beetles, Callosobruchus chinensis, lay their eggs on young pods, and the larvae feed on the seeds, causing significant damage. To manage bruchid beetles, harvest the crop as soon as ripening starts and store it properly. Fumigation with phosphine is also an option for the control of bruchid beetles.
