Description of Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich.
Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich. is a plant species in the legume family, Fabaceae. It is native to Ethiopia, where it grows in rocky areas and grasslands at elevations of up to 3600 meters above sea level.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as Ethiopian Smithia, Sensitive Smithia, or Abyssinian Smithia, owing to its origin.
Uses and Benefits
The plant has some medicinal properties - the roots of the plant are used to treat stomach problems, skin disorders and fever. The plant is also useful in soil conservation. Its root system helps to control soil erosion by holding the soil in place and reducing runoff.
General Appearance
Smithia sensitiva is a small, perennial plant that typically grows to a height of about 15-30 cm. It has a prostrate habit and its stems are somewhat wiry and branched. The leaves are green, compound and bear about 4-8 pairs of small, round leaflets. The flowers, which appear in summer, are produced in small clusters at the end of the stems. They are usually yellow or orange and have a characteristic butterfly-like shape. The plant produces an elongated seedpod that is about 10-15 mm long with brownish-black seeds inside.
Overall, the Ethiopian Smithia is a fascinating plant with various cultural, medicinal and ecological roles. Its unique features make it an interesting addition to any garden space.
Light Requirements
Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich. thrives best under moderate light intensity but can also grow under semi-shaded or shaded conditions. Direct exposure to intense sunlight can damage the plant, and it is essential to provide some shade during the hottest periods of the day in areas with high temperatures.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich. is between 20 and 30°C. However, the plant can still grow in temperatures as low as 10°C. It cannot, however, withstand frost or extreme temperatures. During cold seasons, it is advisable to cover the plant with a protective cloth or bring it indoors to prevent damage or death.
Soil Requirements
Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich. prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 6 to 6.5. It does not do well in waterlogged soils, so proper drainage is key. Adding organic matter, such as compost or manure, can improve the soil's texture and nutrient levels, promoting growth. For potting, it is essential to use well-draining soil mixtures and pots with drainage holes to avoid water accumulation.
Cultivation Methods
Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich., commonly known as "sensitive Smithia," is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, and Tanzania. It prefers to grow in tropical and subtropical regions with an average annual temperature of 21-27°C and an average annual rainfall of 500-1000 mm.
The plant prefers to grow in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter, with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. It can be propagated from seed or cuttings. Sow seeds directly in the field after the last frost or in pots in a greenhouse, and transplant the seedlings after four weeks.
Watering Needs
Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich. requires regular watering to establish a healthy root system and support proper growth. However, it is sensitive to waterlogging and does not tolerate standing water. Therefore, it is essential to ensure good drainage in the soil.
During the dry season, water the plant regularly, at least once a week, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the rainy season, decrease the frequency of watering, but make sure the soil remains moist.
Fertilization
Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich. requires regular fertilization to support its growth and ensure productivity. Apply a complete fertilizer (NPK) at a rate of 40-50 kg/ha after the first harvest and repeat every three months during the growing season.
To enhance the effectiveness of the fertilizer, add organic matter, such as compost or manure, to the soil. It can improve soil fertility, retain moisture, and promote healthy microbial activities, leading to better root development and growth.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich. However, removing dead or diseased leaves can help improve airflow and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. It can also promote good aesthetics and branching.
Harvest the plant's leaves and stems when they reach maturity, which usually occurs after three to four months of growth. Cut the stems about 10 cm above the ground to encourage regrowth and prolong the plant's lifespan. Regular harvesting can also prevent the plant from becoming too woody and less productive.
Propagation of Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich.
Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich. is a plant species that can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, and division of the rootstock. It is a delicate plant, and its propagation requires special attention and care.
Propagation by seeds
The easiest way to propagate Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich. is through seeds. The seeds are small, and they should be sown in composted soil in a well-draining pot. The soil should be kept moist but not wet, and the pot should be kept in a warm and bright spot. The seeds should germinate within 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings should be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground after they reach a certain size.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another method that can be used to propagate Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich. Cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant in the spring or summer. The cutting should be around 5-7 cm long and should be taken from the upper part of the plant. The cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in composted soil. The soil should be moist, and the cutting should be kept in a warm and bright spot. The cutting should root within 4-6 weeks, and after that, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Propagation by division of the rootstock
Propagation by division of the rootstock is a method that can be used to propagate Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich. This method is best used in the spring. The plant should be dug out of the ground, and the roots should be divided into several sections. Each section should have some roots and some stems. The sections should be replanted in composted soil, and they should be kept moist and in a warm and bright spot. The sections should root within a few weeks, and after that, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich.
Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich. is known for its hardiness and tolerance to pests and diseases. However, proper care and management are still necessary to ensure that the plant remains healthy and vigorous.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich. is root rot caused by soil-borne fungi, such as Fusarium oxysporum and Phytophthora. The best way to prevent root rot is to avoid overwatering and to ensure that the soil has good drainage. If root rot is already present, removing the affected plant parts and treating the soil with fungicides can help manage the disease.
Another disease that can affect Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich. is powdery mildew, caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum. This disease can be recognized by the white powdery growth on the surface of leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to maintain good air circulation around the plant by pruning and thinning out the foliage. Fungicides can also be applied as a preventative measure.
Common Pests
Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich. is relatively pest-resistant. However, it can still be attacked by some insect pests, such as aphids, spider mites, and thrips. These pests can cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves and sucking out the sap. To manage these pests, regular monitoring of the plant is necessary to detect infestations early. Insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils can also be used to control the pests.
Another pest that can cause damage to Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich. is the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne spp. These microscopic worms can cause the roots to form nodules or galls, hindering the plant's ability to absorb nutrients. To manage nematodes, it is important to maintain healthy soil by adding organic matter and rotating crops. Nematicides can also be used to manage severe infestations.
Overall, proper care and management, including monitoring and timely intervention, can greatly minimize the risk of diseases and pests affecting Smithia sensitiva Aiton var. abyssinica A.Rich.
