Origin
Rhynchosia procurrens (Hiern) K.Schum. subsp. procurrens is a perennial plant species belonging to the family Fabaceae. It is native to the African continent and is found in countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Angola.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as gilyanga in Swahili and umahlabangubo in Zulu.
Uses
The plant has various uses in traditional medicine. In Tanzania, the roots of Rhynchosia procurrens are used to treat fever, cough, and diarrhea. The plant extract is also used to treat snake bites and as a general tonic. In Kenya, the plant extract is used to treat stomachaches, dysentery, and skin problems such as boils and sores. The leaves of the plant are used as a green vegetable in various African cuisines.
General Appearance
Rhynchosia procurrens is a climbing herb that grows up to 5 meters in height. The plant has a woody stem and produces pinnate leaves with ovate leaflets that are about 1-8 cm long. The plant produces clusters of yellow and orange flowers that are about 1 cm in length. The fruit is a pod that contains several seeds.
Light Requirements
Rhynchosia procurrens (Hiern) K.Schum. subsp. procurrens plant requires full sun to partial shade to grow healthy. The plant can tolerate a wide range of light conditions; however, full sun is preferred, and the plant will bloom best in this lighting condition.
Temperature Requirements
Rhynchosia procurrens (Hiern) K.Schum. subsp. procurrens plant prefers warm climates with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 35°C. The plant is not frost-tolerant and will die if exposed to frost.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Rhynchosia procurrens (Hiern) K.Schum. subsp. procurrens prefers soils rich in organic matter and nitrogen to support its growth and development. It is essential to avoid waterlogged soils as the plant is susceptible to root rot and other related diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Rhynchosia procurrens (Hiern) K.Schum. subsp. procurrens, also known as African diabetic bean, is a leguminous plant that can be cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. It grows well in sandy and loamy soils with good drainage, and full sunlight exposure.
The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings, with seeds being the more common method. Seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before being planted in nurseries or directly in the field during the rainy season. Seedlings take around two weeks to emerge and should be transplanted when they have 4-6 leaves.
Watering Needs
Rhynchosia procurrens prefers moderate watering, as too much water can cause root rot and other fungal diseases. Water should be applied regularly during the rainy season, but during the dry season, watering should be done only when required, i.e., when the topsoil is dry to the touch.
Additionally, it is essential to avoid overwatering during the flowering and fruiting stages, as this can lead to poor fruit development and ultimately decrease yields.
Fertilization
As a leguminous plant, Rhynchosia procurrens has the capacity to fix atmospheric nitrogen through its root system, hence it requires very moderate fertilization. However, for optimal growth and maximum yield, it is essential to apply a balanced fertilizer during planting and at 6-8 weeks after planting. A recommended ratio is 20:10:10 (NPK).
Organic manure can also be applied as a basal application during planting, and as a topdressing during fruiting stages to increase soil fertility and yields.
Pruning
Rhynchosia procurrens does not require extensive pruning, but slight pruning can be done during the early stages to allow for proper branching and development. Pruning during the fruiting stages should be avoided as it can result in reduced yield.
Finally, it is important to remove any diseased or damaged branches promptly to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
Propagation of Rhynchosia procurrens subsp. procurrens
Rhynchosia procurrens subsp. procurrens, commonly known as the creeping snailvine or bowtie vine, is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae. It is a popular ornamental plant, admired for its attractive foliage and delicate flowers. This plant is easy to propagate and can be done through different methods, such as seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed propagation
The easiest way to propagate Rhynchosia procurrens subsp. procurrens is through seed propagation. The seeds are readily produced by mature plants and are easy to collect. They can be sown directly into the ground or in seed trays filled with well-draining soil. The seeds should be covered lightly with soil, watered, and kept in a warm, humid place. The seeds will germinate in about 1-2 weeks, and the resulting seedlings can be transplanted when they have reached a suitable size.
Stem cuttings
Rhynchosia procurrens subsp. procurrens can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Choose healthy stems, about 4-6 inches long, and make a clean cut below a node. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few leaves at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and place it in a pot filled with a mixture of sand and peat moss. Water the cutting and cover it with a plastic bag or dome to maintain humidity. Within a few weeks, roots should start to develop, and the new plant can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Division
Another way to propagate Rhynchosia procurrens subsp. procurrens is through division. This method is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. Carefully dig up the entire plant and separate it into smaller sections, making sure that each section has a good amount of roots. Replant the smaller sections immediately, watering them well and placing them in a shaded location for a few days until they recover from the transplant shock.
Disease and Pest Management for Rhynchosia procurrens (Hiern) K.Schum. subsp. procurrens
Rhynchosia procurrens (Hiern) K.Schum. subsp. procurrens is generally a hardy plant species but it is still susceptible to some diseases and pests that can cause damage and affect the plant's growth and yield. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect Rhynchosia procurrens and ways to manage them:
1. Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that can affect many plant species including Rhynchosia procurrens. It usually manifests as dark, sunken lesions on the leaves, stems, and pods of the plant. Anthracnose can cause defoliation, stunted growth, and reduced yield.
To manage anthracnose, start by removing infected plant parts and disposing of them properly. Also, avoid watering the plant from above to prevent water from splashing on the leaves. Fungicides may also help in controlling anthracnose, and it's recommended to consult a specialist or check with a local agricultural extension service for appropriate fungicides.
2. Root Knot Nematodes
Root knot nematodes are microscopic soil-borne pests that can cause significant damage to Rhynchosia procurrens. They cause the formation of root galls, which impede water and nutrient uptake and can lead to plant wilting, stunted growth, and poor yield.
The best way to manage root knot nematodes is to use nematicides or nematode-resistant cultivars. Crop rotation and soil solarization can also help in reducing nematode infestations. However, it is easier to prevent nematode infestations by practicing good sanitation, proper plant hygiene, and avoiding the use of contaminated soil or plant materials.
3. Leafhoppers
Leafhoppers are tiny insects that can transmit plant diseases and cause significant damage to Rhynchosia procurrens. They feed on the plant sap, causing yellowing, curling, and distortion of the leaves. Severely infested plants may have stunted growth, reduced yield, and even death.
Leafhoppers can be managed by removing weed hosts, maintaining good garden hygiene, and removing infested plant materials. Natural predators such as parasitic wasps, lady beetles, and lacewings can also help in reducing leafhopper populations. Insecticides can also be used but need to be applied with caution, and it's recommended to check with a specialist or agricultural extension service for appropriate treatments.
By following these management practices, you can help prevent and control diseases and pests that might affect Rhynchosia procurrens (Hiern) K.Schum. subsp. procurrens, and promote healthy plant growth and yield.
