Plant Description: Mucuna pesa De Wild. var. glabrescens Hauman
Mucuna pesa De Wild. var. glabrescens Hauman, commonly known as "Pesa" or "Wild Velvet Bean," is a climbing annual herb belonging to the Fabaceae or bean family. It is native to tropical Africa, particularly in Zambia, Zimbabwe, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The plant can grow up to 6 meters long and has thick, cylindrical stems that can reach up to 2 cm in diameter. Its leaves are trifoliate, with leaflets measuring up to 15 cm long and 5 cm wide.
The plant's inflorescences are about 10-30 cm long, with papilionoid flowers that are purple to dark red or pink in color. The fruits are legumes, 10-25 cm long, and 1.5-2.5 cm wide, covered with stiff, brown hairs. Each fruit contains 3-8 seeds which are spherical and brown in color.
Common Names
Mucuna pesa De Wild. var. glabrescens Hauman goes by several common names in different countries. In Zambia and Malawi, it is referred to as "Pesa" or "Kopa." It is also called "Wild Velvet Bean," "Mucuna," or "Cowitch" in different regions.
Uses
Mucuna pesa De Wild. var. glabrescens Hauman is used traditionally for various medicinal purposes. The seeds are a rich source of L-Dopa, which is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease. It is also used as a stimulant to improve memory and cognitive abilities.
The plant is also used as a cover crop and green manure due to its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen and enhance soil fertility. The seeds and pods of the plant are sometimes fed to livestock as fodder. In some areas, the plant is also used for erosion control due to its ability to grow quickly and cover large areas.
Light Requirements
Mucuna pesa De Wild. var. glabrescens Hauman typically grows in a semi-shaded environment, although it can tolerate full sun if given ample water. It is essential to avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight as it can cause leaf scorching and leaf drop. Therefore, it is best to plant it under partial shade or in areas with filtered sunlight.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils, which should be moderately fertile and rich in organic matter. Mucuna pesa De Wild. var. glabrescens Hauman does not thrive in soils with poor drainage, which can cause waterlogging, root rot, and stunted growth. A pH range of 5.5 - 7.5 is optimal for its growth.
Temperature Requirements
Mucuna pesa De Wild. var. glabrescens Hauman grows best in tropical temperatures ranging between 24-30°C (75-86°F). It is a delicate plant that struggles to survive in temperatures below 15°C (59°F) and may face stunted growth and delayed flowering. Moreover, it is crucial to protect it from cold winds as they can cause leaf damage and leaf drop.
Cultivation Methods
Mucuna pesa De Wild. var. glabrescens Hauman is a tropical plant that prefers a warm climate, with daytime temperatures ranging from 21-32°C and nighttime temperatures ranging from 16-21°C. The plant requires fertile, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. When planting, make sure to space the seedlings about 2-3 feet apart to give them enough room to grow.
Watering Needs
Mucuna pesa De Wild. var. glabrescens Hauman prefers moisture-retentive soil and requires adequate watering, especially during the growing season. However, be careful not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot and other diseases. A good rule of thumb is to water the plant deeply once a week, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Mucuna pesa De Wild. var. glabrescens Hauman requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every three to four months during the growing season. You can also use organic fertilizers such as compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil. Keep in mind that overfertilization can harm the plant, so always follow the recommended dosage.
Pruning
Mucuna pesa De Wild. var. glabrescens Hauman benefits from pruning to promote bushiness and reduce legginess. Pruning should be done during the growing season, usually in the spring or summer. Use sharp, sterile pruning shears to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged parts of the plant. You can also pinch back the tips of the branches to encourage branching and fuller growth.
By following these cultivation methods, watering needs, fertilization, and pruning practices, you can grow a healthy and vibrant Mucuna pesa De Wild. var. glabrescens Hauman plant in your garden.
Propagation methods for Mucuna pesa De Wild. var. glabrescens Hauman
The Mucuna pesa De Wild. var. glabrescens Hauman is commonly propagated by seeds and stem cuttings. The following are the propagation methods for this plant:
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of this plant can be sown directly into the soil or in pots during the rainy season. To propagate through seed germination, the following steps should be taken:
- Collect the matured seeds from the plant and soak them in water for 12-24 hours to break the dormancy.
- Fill a pot with composted soil and create small holes in the soil.
- Drop one seed in each hole and cover them with soil.
- Water the soil regularly and keep it moist but not waterlogged.
- The seeds will germinate within 2 - 4 weeks, and the plant will begin to grow.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
This plant can also be propagated through stem cuttings using the following steps:
- Take cuttings of about 15 - 20cm long from healthy and mature plants.
- Strip off the leaves from the lower part of the cutting.
- Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder.
- Fill a pot with well-drained soil and make small holes in the soil.
- Insert the cuttings into the holes and firm the soil around them.
- Water the soil regularly and keep it moist.
- The cuttings will develop roots within 2 - 4 weeks, and the plant will begin to grow.
Disease and Pest Management for Mucuna Pesa De Wild. var. Glabrescens Hauman
Mucuna Pesa De Wild. var. Glabrescens Hauman, is a vulnerable plant that is prone to various diseases and pest infestations. It is thus crucial to adopt preventive measures that can help safeguard the plant from these potential attacks.
Common Diseases
Some of the common diseases that can affect Mucuna Pesa De Wild. var. Glabrescens Hauman are fungal infections such as powdery mildew, leaf blight, and root rot. Powdery mildew presents as a white coating on the leaves, while leaf blight results in circular brown spots on the leaves. On the other hand, root rot can cause the plant's death, leading to rotting roots.
Disease Management
The most effective way of managing plant diseases is by adopting preventive measures. Ensure that the plant grows in well-draining soil and receives sufficient sunlight, water, and nutrients. Avoid overwatering the plant and prevent it from being exposed to harsh weather. In case an infection occurs, remove the affected areas and apply a fungicide to mitigate the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
The plant is susceptible to attacks from various pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Spider mites and aphids cause leaf discoloration, while mealybugs cause a white cottony substance on the plant's leaves, stem, and buds.
Pest Management
To manage pest infestations, ensure regular monitoring to detect the earliest sign of attack. Prune and remove infected areas and improve the plant's hygiene by removing fallen leaves and debris. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to deter further pest attacks.
In conclusion, timely care and effective management of diseases and pests will ensure healthy growth and development of Mucuna Pesa De Wild. var. Glabrescens Hauman.
