Overview
Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens (Engl. & Gilg) Seidenst., also known as wild sesame, is a plant species that belongs to the Sesamum genus and the Pedaliaceae family. This plant is native to Africa but is also cultivated in other parts of the world for its edible seeds.
Common Names
The common names of Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens include:
- Wild sesame
- Yellow blossom sesame
- Kege in Hausa language
- Kane in Kanuri language
Uses
Wild sesame is primarily grown for its edible seeds, which are used both for culinary and medicinal purposes. The seeds are high in oil content and can be pressed to extract sesame oil, which is widely used in cooking and as a seasoning. The seeds are also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as digestive problems, respiratory infections, and inflammation.
The plant is also used in reclamation and erosion control projects, as its deep roots help to bind the soil and prevent erosion. Additionally, Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens is known to attract bees and other pollinators, making it a suitable plant for beekeeping and honey production.
Appearance
Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens is a herbaceous plant that can grow up to 50 cm in height. The plant has small, lance-shaped leaves that are green in color and arranged in an alternate pattern along the stem. The flowers of the plant are small and yellow, and they bloom in clusters at the ends of the branches. The seeds of the plant are small, rounded, and yellow or light brown in color.
Growth Conditions for Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens
Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens (Engl. & Gilg) Seidenst., commonly known as the wild sesame, is a herbaceous plant that is native to sub-Saharan Africa. It typically grows in tropical and subtropical regions, and its growth conditions require the following elements:
Light
Sesamum calycinum needs a considerable amount of sunlight to grow properly. It requires full sunlight exposure to thrive, however, it can also grow in partial shade in areas with high temperatures.
Temperature
The wild sesame requires a warm and humid climate to grow, with a temperature range averaging from 20-30°C. It is intolerant to low temperatures, and will not survive frost.
Soil
Sesamum calycinum prefers well-drained soils with sufficient nutrients. It thrives in soils with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant requires good drainage, as standing water can lead to root rot.
Overall, Sesamum calycinum is a hardy plant that requires a warm climate, plenty of sunlight, well-drained soil, and moderate watering to grow. It is a plant of agronomic interest due to its edible seeds, which are a source of oil and protein.
Cultivation methods
Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens (Engl. & Gilg) Seidenst. is a hardy plant that can grow in a wide range of conditions. It can be propagated from seeds or cuttings, but seeds are the most reliable method.
It is best to sow Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens seeds directly into the soil as it does not transplant well. The seeds need to be sown in a warm, sunny, and sheltered spot with well-draining soil. The seeds can be sown anytime from March to May.
Once the seeds have been sown, it is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination should occur within two to three weeks.
Watering needs
Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens requires moderate watering during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases.
During dry periods, the plant will require more frequent watering to keep the soil moist. It is important to avoid watering the leaves as this can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens does not require a lot of fertilizer. A slow-release fertilizer applied at the beginning of the growing season should be sufficient to provide the plant with the nutrients it needs to grow and produce flowers.
It is important to choose a fertilizer that is high in phosphorus, as this will help promote flower and seed production.
Pruning
Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens does not require pruning, as it is a low-growing plant that does not produce a lot of woody growth. However, it is important to remove any dead or damaged foliage as soon as it is noticed to prevent the spread of diseases.
If the plant starts to get too leggy or sparse, it can be pinched back to promote bushier growth and more flower production. This is best done in early summer after the plant has finished flowering.
Propagation of Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens
Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens is a plant that can be propagated via various methods. These methods include:
Seed Propagation
The plant can be propagated by seed, which is readily available from mature plants. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in a warm and sunny location. The ideal time to sow the seeds is during the early rainy season when the soil is moist. The seedlings will germinate within two weeks and should be transplanted once they have reached a height of about 10 cm.
Cuttings
Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from a mature plant that is at least two years old. The cuttings should be about 15 cm long and should be planted in a well-draining medium. They should be kept in a warm and humid environment until roots develop, after which they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Division
This plant can also be propagated through division. Divide mature plants during the early rainy season by separating the roots. Each section should have at least two stems and a healthy root system. Plant the divided sections in soil that has good drainage and is well-fertilized with organic matter.
Overall, Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens is a relatively easy plant to propagate. Whether you choose to propagate by seed, cutting, or division, with the right care, you can enjoy a thriving garden full of these beautiful and beneficial plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens
Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens, commonly known as the Gamooga plant, is a medicinally important plant that is used for treating various ailments. However, despite its medicinal properties, this plant can be susceptible to various diseases and pests that can significantly affect its growth and yield. Therefore, proper disease and pest management practices are crucial to ensure the healthy growth and productivity of this plant. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens and ways to manage them effectively:
Common Diseases
Root Rot: Root rot is a common disease that affects Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens. It is caused by fungi such as Rhizoctonia solanii and Sclerotium rolfsii, among others. Symptoms include yellowing of leaves, wilting, and stunting of the plant. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage and avoid over-watering the plant. Additionally, remove infected plants and maintain crop rotation.
Fungal Leaf Spot: Fungal leaf spot is another common disease that affects Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens. It is caused by fungi such as Alternaria sesami and Cercospora sesami. Symptoms include the appearance of small, dark spots on the leaves. To manage fungal leaf spot, avoid overcrowding the plants, maintain proper ventilation, and spray with fungicides.
Common Pests
Leafhoppers: Leafhoppers are common pests that can affect Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens. They feed on plant sap and cause discoloration and curling of leaves. To manage leafhoppers, remove weeds and alternate host plants that can serve as breeding grounds for the pests. Additionally, use insecticides or natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings to control their population.
Aphids: Aphids are another common pest that can affect Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens. They feed on plant sap and cause discoloration and curling of leaves. To manage aphids, prune infested leaves, use insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps to control their population.
Implementing the above disease and pest management measures effectively can ensure the healthy growth and productivity of Sesamum calycinum Welw. subsp. repens.
