Origin
Otholobium caffrum, also known as "Caffer fairy clover" or "Woolly head clover," is a plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae family and is native to southern Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known by its Afrikaans name "Kafferklopkiecies" and by its English name "Woolly head clover" due to its fuzzy inflorescences.
Uses
Otholobium caffrum is used as a fodder plant for livestock. The plant is highly palatable to cattle and can be utilised as a valuable source of nutrients during times of drought. Furthermore, the plant's nitrogen-fixing properties contribute towards improving the quality of the soil and its ability to support other vegetation. Additionally, Otholobium caffrum is used in traditional medicine to treat common ailments such as coughs and colds.
General Appearance
Otholobium caffrum is a low-growing perennial herb that can grow up to 1 m in height. The plant has a dense cushion-like habit and forms mats of grey-green or silvery leaves that are rounded in shape and covered in fine hairs. The inflorescences are erect stems that produce clusters of woolly, pinkish-purple flowers that bloom from August to November. The plant's fruits are small, flattened, and kidney-shaped, and are often covered in minute hairs.
Light Requirements
Otholobium caffrum plants prefer full sun exposure for optimal growth. They are adapted to a Mediterranean climate and need at least six hours of sunlight per day to thrive. However, excessive sunlight exposure can cause leaf scorching and reduced growth, especially during hot summer months. Thus, partial shading may be necessary in areas with high temperatures.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Otholobium caffrum growth is between 15°C and 30°C. Temperatures above or below this range may negatively impact the growth and development of the plant. During winter, the minimum temperature should not drop below 5°C. Otholobium caffrum plants can tolerate mild frost but may not be able to survive prolonged freezing conditions.
Soil Requirements
Otholobium caffrum plants grow well in well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. They can also tolerate slightly acidic soil conditions. The species prefers soils that are rich in organic matter, well-aerated and loamy. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as excess moisture can cause root rot and other fungal diseases. In areas with poor soil quality, adding organic matter such as compost or aged manure can help improve the soil structure and fertility.
Cultivation
Otholobium caffrum is a relatively easy plant to cultivate. It grows well in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining soil. It is a drought-tolerant plant and does well in dry conditions. It can grow in a variety of soils, including sandy and rocky areas.
Watering Needs
While Otholobium caffrum is a drought-tolerant plant, it requires regular watering during its establishment period. Once it is established, it can do well with little to no irrigation. However, during periods of drought, it is essential to give it a thorough watering to keep it healthy.
Fertilization
Otholobium caffrum is a nitrogen-fixing plant, meaning it can produce its fertilizer by fixing atmospheric nitrogen in the soil. It does not require any additional fertilization. However, to promote its growth and flowering, you can provide some phosphorous fertilizer during its establishment period.
Pruning
Otholobium caffrum does not require any pruning, but you can do some light pruning in spring to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged growth.
Propagation of Otholobium caffrum
Otholobium caffrum, commonly known as the Cape vetch, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the family Fabaceae. Propagation of this plant can be done using seeds, stem cuttings, or through division.
Propagation by seed
The easiest way to propagate Otholobium caffrum is through seeds. The seeds of this plant can be collected from the fruit pods once they turn brown. It is important to collect seeds from healthy plants to ensure the best chance of success.
The collected seeds can be sown directly into the ground or in seed trays. The soil should be well-draining and moist. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist until germination occurs, which usually takes about two to three weeks.
Propagation by stem cutting
Otholobium caffrum can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The stem cuttings should be taken from healthy plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be about 10 cm long and should have several nodes.
The bottom of the stem cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone before planting it into a well-draining soil mix of peat and sand. The cutting should be watered regularly and placed in a warm and bright location. Rooting usually occurs within four to six weeks.
Propagation by division
Propagation by division is best done in the early spring or fall. The plant should be dug up and carefully divided into smaller sections, making sure that each section has its own set of roots and stems.
The divided sections should be planted in a well-draining soil mix. Water regularly and place in a bright location, away from direct sunlight until new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Otholobium caffrum (Eckl. & Zeyh.) C.H.Stirt.
Otholobium caffrum is generally a hardy plant that is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. Proper care and regular maintenance are usually enough to prevent any major problems. However, some pests and diseases can still affect the plant, and it is essential to identify and manage them appropriately.
Common Pests
The most common pests that attack Otholobium caffrum are spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged pests that suck sap from the plant. They cause the leaves to turn yellow and eventually fall off. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. You can also use an insecticidal soap or neem oil for effective control.
Aphids: Aphids are tiny, soft-bodied insects that feed on the leaves and stems of the plant. They cause stunted growth, curling leaves, and yellowing. To manage aphids, prune the affected plant parts and use an insecticidal soap or neem oil for control. Encouraging natural predators such as ladybugs can also help to keep them at bay.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white or gray, scale-like insects that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and stunted growth. They also excrete honeydew, which attracts other pests, causing black mold to form on the plant. To manage mealybugs, remove them manually using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or use an insecticidal soap.
Common Diseases
Otholobium caffrum is usually not prone to many diseases. However, two common diseases that can affect the plant are fungus and root rot.
Fungus: A fungus infection can cause yellowing and spotting on the leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage this, remove infected plant parts, improve airflow around the plant, and reduce watering. You can also use a fungicide if necessary, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can cause root rot in Otholobium caffrum. The plant will have wilted leaves, and the roots will be brown and mushy. To manage this, stop watering the plant until the soil dries out, then repot it in fresh, well-draining soil.
Overall, taking care of Otholobium caffrum is relatively easy, and with proper care, the plant will thrive, and any pests or diseases can be managed promptly.
