Origin
Ptycholobium contortum (N.E.Br.) Brummitt also known as the twisted-leaf wattle is native to southern Africa. This plant is widely distributed across Zimbabwe, Mozambique, South Africa, and Swaziland.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as twisted-leaf wattle, African wattle or the ribbon-bush.
General Appearance
This plant is a small shrub or a tree that can grow up to a height of 1.5 meters tall. Ptycholobium contortum has twisted leaves which are gray-green on the upper surface and slightly hairy on the lower surface. It produces yellow, spherical shaped flowers in small clusters that appear from August to October. The fruit produced by this plant is in the form of a flat pod that is twisted and curled. The plant has an aesthetic value and can be used in landscaping and is easily propagated by seeds.
Uses
The twisted-leaf wattle has its uses as it is drought-resistant and can be used for soil erosion control. The bark contains tannin and is used in traditional medicine to treat diarrhoea, headaches, and dysentery, among other human ailments. It is a good source of forage for livestock due to its high protein content. With its aesthetic value, the plant can be grown as an ornamental plant.
Growth conditions of Ptycholobium contortum
Ptycholobium contortum, also known as "twisted-pod" or "contorted-pod" belongs to the family Fabaceae and is native to South Africa. It is a perennial herb that prefers a warm and dry climate with a moderate to low rainfall.
Light requirements
Ptycholobium contortum prefers full sun exposure to partial shade. It requires a good amount of light to grow and thrive. Insufficient light can lead to stunted growth and underdevelopment of flowers.
Temperature requirements
The plant prefers a warm and dry climate with a temperature range of 18-30°C (65-86°F). It can withstand occasional frosts if the weather is dry. However, prolonged exposure to cold can be harmful to the plant.
Soil requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soil with low to moderate fertility. It can adapt to different soil types, including sand, loam, and clay, but it requires good drainage. The pH range of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5).
It is important to note that Ptycholobium contortum is a drought-tolerant plant and can survive in conditions of water scarcity. However, moderate watering is recommended when the plant is in its active growth phase. Excessive watering can lead to root rot and other fungal infections.
Cultivation Methods
Ptycholobium contortum is a semi-deciduous plant species that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and wide. For optimal growth and development, the plant should be cultivated in full sun or partial shade. The soil should be well-draining, preferably sandy loam with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5.
The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds can be planted in spring or autumn, while cuttings can be taken in mid-summer. The cuttings should be about 15 cm long and planted in a rooting hormone and well-draining soil mixture. In both cases, the soil should be kept moist until germination or rooting takes place.
Watering Needs
Young Ptycholobium contortum plants require regular watering to establish a deep root system. Afterward, the plant can withstand some periods of drought, but should still be watered regularly. When watering, give a deep soaking that allows the soil to become moist, but not waterlogged. Avoid overhead watering, as this can encourage fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Ptycholobium contortum should be fertilized once a year in the spring or early summer. Use a balanced fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers such as compost or well-rotted manure.
Pruning
Ptycholobium contortum requires minimal pruning. You can remove any damaged or dead growth in the late winter or early spring before the plant resumes growth. This will help to promote healthy growth and flowering. You can also prune to maintain a compact shape or to remove any untidy growth, but avoid severe pruning as this can affect the plant's growth and form.
Propagation of Ptycholobium contortum (N.E.Br.) Brummitt
Ptycholobium contortum (N.E.Br.) Brummitt can be propagated using primarily two methods: seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Ptycholobium contortum (N.E.Br.) Brummitt can be collected from the mature pods during the autumn season. The collected seeds can be sown directly into the soil or kept in dry storage until the next sowing season.
Before sowing, the seeds can be soaked in water for 24 hours, or scarified by rubbing the seed coat with sandpaper or a file to break the dormancy. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1-2 cm and watered regularly. Within 7-14 days, the seeds will germinate, and the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location after 3-4 months.
Propagation by Cuttings
The cuttings of Ptycholobium contortum (N.E.Br.) Brummitt can be taken during the spring or early summer season. The cuttings should be at least 8-10 cm long and have a minimum of two nodes. The leaves from the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone.
The cuttings can be planted in a pot or directly into the soil, and they should be watered regularly. To create a suitable environment for root development, the cuttings should be covered with a transparent polythene bag or kept under a misting system for 4-6 weeks until roots start to appear. Once the roots have developed, the new plants can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Disease Management
Ptycholobium contortum is susceptible to various fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases. The following are some common diseases and management strategies.
Root Rot
Root rot caused by the fungus Phytophthora is common in wet soil or poorly drained areas. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering and improve drainage. Remove the infected plant parts and apply fungicides on the remaining parts.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew caused by the fungi Erysiphe and Microsphaera can be managed by providing good air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and removing infected parts. Apply fungicides as needed.
Bacterial Wilt
Bacterial wilt caused by the bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum can be managed by removing infected plants and avoiding waterlogged soil. Fungicides are not effective in controlling bacterial wilt.
Pest Management
Ptycholobium contortum is not commonly attacked by pests. However, the plant can be affected by some insects and mites. The following are some common pests and management strategies.
Mites
Spruce spider mites are common pests of Ptycholobium contortum. They suck the plant's sap, leading to yellowing and dropping of the leaves. To manage the mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. Apply insecticides if necessary.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars of various moths can attack Ptycholobium contortum. They feed on the leaves and can cause severe defoliation. Handpick the caterpillars and destroy them. Apply insecticides as necessary.
Thrips
Thrips are small insects that can cause leaf distortion and discoloration. They can be managed by providing good air circulation and avoiding over-fertilization. Apply insecticides as necessary.
