Introduction
Pseudarthria cordata (Klotzsch) K.Muell.berol. is a flowering plant commonly known as the heart-leaved moonseed. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia.
General Appearance
The plant has a woody stem that can grow up to 2 meters in height, while the leaves are broad, heart-shaped, and trifoliate in arrangement. The flowers are small and yellow in color, and they bloom in clusters. The fruit is a flattened pod with seeds that are shiny and black. The plant has a sprawling growth habit and can spread widely through the production of its pods.
Common Names
In India, the plant is commonly known as Gurmar, which translates to “sugar destroyer,” while in Nepal, it is called Seto-Niwadawa. In some regions of Africa, it is known as Omutuuze.
Uses
The plant has several uses in traditional medicine. The Gurmar extract has been used in Ayurvedic medicine as a treatment for diabetes, obesity, and digestive disorders. It has been found to help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce cravings for sweet foods. The plant's roots have also been used in some cultures to treat skin conditions like eczema and leprosy.
Aside from its medicinal properties, the plant is also used in the production of soap, tannins, and dyes. The plant is also known to have potential for soil conservation, as its root nodules fix nitrogen in the soil, thus improving soil fertility.
Growth Conditions of Pseudarthria cordata (Klotzsch) K.Muell.berol.
Light: Pseudarthria cordata prefers to grow in partial to full sunlight. It can also tolerate some shade, but too much shade can negatively impact its growth and blooming ability.
Temperature: The plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures, but it thrives in warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Pseudarthria cordata is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). However, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C (50°F) and as high as 40°C (104°F).
Soil: Pseudarthria cordata prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH level should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. The ideal soil type for the plant is sandy or loamy soil that is slightly moist but not waterlogged.
Water: The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept slightly moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. During the growing season, it is advisable to water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions.
Fertilizer: Pseudarthria cordata requires regular fertilization to maintain its growth and blooming ability. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. However, avoid over-fertilization as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.
Propagation: The plant can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. If propagating by cutting, it is advisable to use semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the summer. Propagation by seed is best done in the spring. Ensure that the soil is slightly moist and well-draining when propagating the plant by either method.
Cultivation methods
The Pseudarthria cordata plant grows well in tropical and subtropical climates and is generally easy to care for. It prefers a well-draining, slightly acidic soil mixture with an ideal pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade and requires warm temperatures to grow successfully.
Propagation is by seed or cuttings. Plant the seeds or cuttings in a well-draining soil mix and cover with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil consistently moist until the seedlings or cuttings have become established. Transplant the seedlings or cuttings into their final location when they are approximately six to eight weeks old.
Watering needs
Pseudarthria cordata requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the humidity levels and weather conditions in your area. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season, from spring to fall. Use a fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, or one that is specifically formulated for legumes. Avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Pseudarthria cordata does not require pruning, but regular maintenance can help promote bushy growth and ensure the plant remains healthy. Remove any dead or damaged growth as soon as possible to prevent the spread of disease. Pinch back the tips of the plant to control its size and promote bushy growth. You can also prune the plant after the flowering season to help maintain its shape and size.
Propagation of Pseudarthria cordata
Pseudarthria cordata can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
Propagation through seeds
The seeds of Pseudarthria cordata can be directly sown in the desired location. Before sowing, the seeds should be scarified or soaked in warm water overnight to enhance their germination rate. The seedlings will emerge within 2-3 weeks after sowing.
Propagation through stem cuttings
Stem cuttings provide a quicker means of propagating Pseudarthria cordata. Softwood cuttings taken from the green branches roots more easily than hardwood cuttings taken from mature branches. The cuttings should be about six inches long and stripped of their lower leaves. Then, they should be dipped in rooting hormone powder and planted in a pot containing well-drained soil. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, moist place and watered regularly. Roots should appear within 4-6 weeks.
Disease Management
Pseudarthria cordata (Klotzsch) K.Muell.berol. is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial pathogens that can cause both foliar and root diseases. The most common foliar diseases that affect this plant include leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew. On the other hand, root diseases such as root rot and wilt can cause severe damage to the roots and affect the overall growth and development of the plant.
To manage these diseases, it is essential to start with disease prevention. You can do this by ensuring proper cultural practices, such as selecting healthy plants, using well-draining soil, and avoiding overwatering.
In case your plant gets infected, you can use fungicides and bactericides to manage fungal and bacterial diseases. However, before using any chemicals, it is essential to read the instructions carefully and follow the recommended dosage.
Pest Management
Some common pests that can attack Pseudarthria cordata (Klotzsch) K.Muell.berol. include aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. These pests can cause damage to the leaves, stems, and flowers, resulting in stunted growth, wilting, and eventually death of the plant.
To manage these pests, start by regularly inspecting your plant and identifying any pests that may be present. You can then use organic insecticides such as neem oil or insecticidal soap to control the pests. Additionally, you can use physical methods such as handpicking to remove the pests. Regularly cleaning the plant and the surrounding areas can also help to minimize the pest population and prevent infestations.
