Origin and Common Names
Mucuna coriacea Baker subsp. irritans (Burtt Davy) Verdc. is a species of plant in the Fabaceae family. It is native to southern Africa, particularly in Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and South Africa. The common names of this plant include velvet bean, scratch bean, itchy bean, and mucuna bean.
General Appearance
The Mucuna coriacea Baker subsp. irritans plant is a perennial, climbing vine that can grow up to 10 meters in length. The leaves are large and triangular-shaped, with a dark green color and a velvety surface texture. The flowers are purplish-pink, and the bean pods are covered in coarse, bristly hairs that can cause skin irritation when touched.
Uses
The Mucuna coriacea Baker subsp. irritans plant has a variety of traditional medicinal uses in Africa. It is used as an anti-inflammatory, to treat skin irritation and rashes, and to relieve joint pain. The seeds of the plant are also used to make a powder that is used to treat infertility. In addition to its medicinal uses, the plant is also used as a cover crop and in soil erosion control efforts. The plant is also used as a food source for livestock, and the seeds are sometimes roasted and consumed by humans.
Light Requirements
Mucuna coriacea Baker subsp. irritans is a plant species that requires high light levels for optimal growth. The plant thrives in full sun or partially shaded conditions. In low light environments, the plant may exhibit stunted growth and develop fewer flowers.
Temperature Requirements
Mucuna coriacea Baker subsp. irritans prefers warm temperatures for optimal growth and development. The plant is capable of tolerating temperatures between 15°C and 40°C, but it grows and develops best when temperatures range between 20°C and 30°C. The plant may struggle if subjected to colder temperatures, especially below 10°C.
Soil Requirements
For Mucuna coriacea Baker subsp. irritans to grow and thrive, it requires well-drained soil. The plant is capable of growing in a wide range of soils, but it prefers those that are rich in organic matter and have a pH of between 6.0 and 7.5. Heavy soils that retain water or are poorly drained may suffocate the plant's roots and result in poor growth and development. It is recommended to amend such soils with organic matter to increase drainage and improve the soil's water-holding capacity.
Cultivation Methods
Mucuna coriacea Baker subsp. irritans (Burtt Davy) Verdc. are best grown in tropical or subtropical climates as they require warm temperatures for fruiting. The plant prefers well-drained soils with high fertility and a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. Select a location with sufficient sunlight exposure and protection from strong winds.
The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. If you are using seeds, they should be soaked in water overnight before planting. When planting cuttings, they should be at least 10 inches long and planted in soil that is well-drained and moist.
Watering Needs
Mucuna coriacea Baker subsp. irritans (Burtt Davy) Verdc. requires regular watering. However, one should avoid overwatering as it may lead to root rot. The plant should be watered regularly, depending on the weather and soil type. When it's dry, water the plant generously to ensure proper growth and development.
Fertilization
The plant requires constant fertilization to maintain high fertility levels, which are necessary for fruiting. When planting, incorporate organic matter such as compost and manure in the soil. Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizers at the start of the growing period. To ensure a long-lasting yield, apply phosphorus-rich fertilizers during the fruiting stage.
Pruning
Pruning Mucuna coriacea Baker subsp. irritans (Burtt Davy) Verdc. is vital to prevent the plant from becoming overcrowded and to promote proper airflow within the plant. Prune out the weak or diseased branches to redirect the plant's energy to healthy branches. Deadhead old blooms or branches to encourage new growth. Prune anytime, except during drought or extreme weather conditions.
Propagation of Mucuna coriacea Baker subsp. irritans (Burtt Davy) Verdc.
Mucuna coriacea Baker subsp. irritans (Burtt Davy) Verdc. is a tropical and subtropical plant known for its vibrant floral display, making it a popular choice for cultivation among gardeners and horticulturists. The plant can be propagated through several methods, including seed germination, stem cuttings, and layering.
Seed germination
One of the most common ways to propagate Mucuna coriacea Baker subsp. irritans (Burtt Davy) Verdc. is through seed germination. The seeds should be collected from mature pods, which have turned brown and dry. The seeds can be soaked in water for a few hours before sowing to soften the seed coat and improve germination rates. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. Germination can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings have emerged, they can be transplanted to individual containers or directly into the ground.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Mucuna coriacea Baker subsp. irritans (Burtt Davy) Verdc. Stem cuttings should be taken from mature plants and should be around 4-6 inches long with several leaves attached. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and inserted into a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and placed in a warm, bright location. In a few weeks, roots should begin to form, and the cuttings can be transplanted to larger containers or into the ground.
Layering
Layering is another method of propagating Mucuna coriacea Baker subsp. irritans (Burtt Davy) Verdc. This method involves bending a low-growing stem to the ground and covering it with soil. After a few weeks, roots should begin to form along the buried stem. Once the new plant has become established, it can be cut away from the parent plant and transplanted to its new location.
Disease and Pest Management for Mucuna Coriacea Baker subsp. Irritans (Burtt Davy) Verdc.
Mucuna coriacea Baker subsp. irritans (Burtt Davy) Verdc. is susceptible to various diseases and pests. It is important to take necessary precautions to prevent the infestation and spread of diseases and pests that can harm the plant.
Common Diseases of Mucuna Coriacea
Mucuna coriacea is prone to certain diseases, including stem cankers, leaf spot, root rot, and powdery mildew. Stem cankers cause reddish-brown lesions on the stem, which can eventually lead to the death of the plant. Leaf spot manifests as small, dark-brown spots on the leaves, while root rot causes the roots to turn brown and become mushy. Powdery mildew, on the other hand, appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves.
Management of Diseases
Disease management involves several practices that can prevent or minimize the spread of diseases. Some of the practices that are useful in managing diseases include crop rotation, pruning of affected plant parts, avoiding overhead watering, and using fungicides. Using disease-resistant cultivars is also a recommended measure against plant diseases.
Common Pests Affecting Mucuna Coriacea
Mucuna coriacea is also vulnerable to pest infestations such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Spider mites are small in size and can cause discoloration of the leaves and stunted growth of the plant. Aphids, on the other hand, suck sap from the plant, leading to wilting and deformation. Mealybugs feed on the sap of the plant and secrete a sticky substance that attracts other pests.
Management of Pests
To manage pests, it's necessary to inspect the plants regularly and take necessary measures to prevent the spread of pests. Some of the measures for pest management include the use of insecticidal soaps, neem oil, and sprays containing pyrethrins. Introducing natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can also help control the population of pests.
Regular maintenance and care of plant cultivation practices are crucial for the overall health and productivity of Mucuna coriacea Baker subsp. irritans (Burtt Davy) Verdc. plant.
