Overview of Stizolobium deeringianum Bort
Stizolobium deeringianum Bort. is a flowering plant that belongs to the Leguminosae family. It is a native of South America and can be found primarily in Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "Deering bean," "monkey-ladder," or "curruru." Locally, it is referred to as "sindu" in Paraguay and "sensu" in Brazil.
Uses
The Deering bean is a legume that is primarily used for livestock feed in South America. The plant is known for its ability to fix nitrogen in the soil, making it an attractive option for planting in areas low in nitrogen. Parts of the plant have also been used in traditional medicine in Brazil to treat stomach aches and diarrhea.
General Appearance
The Stizolobium deeringianum Bort. plant can grow up to 15 meters long when supported by a tree. Its leaves are composed of three leaflets that are ovate in shape, each measuring approximately 6-12 cm long and 3-6 cm wide. Its flowers are typically pink and white and grow in clusters of 10-30 flowers per spike. The plant produces a large pod that can grow up to 9 cm in length and can contain up to 10 seeds. The seeds themselves are oval in shape, measuring approximately 1 cm long and 0.6 cm wide and are typically green or yellow in color.
Light Requirements
Stizolobium deeringianum Bort requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade but may not produce as well or grow as vigorously.
Temperature Requirements
Stizolobium deeringianum Bort grows best in warm temperatures, ideally between 70-85°F. It can tolerate temperatures ranging from 50-95°F, but growth will be slower at the extremes.
Soil Requirements
Stizolobium deeringianum Bort prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it does not tolerate waterlogged or highly saline soils. pH levels can range from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline.
It is worth noting that Stizolobium deeringianum Bort is also known for its ability to fix nitrogen, which means that it can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that is usable by plants. This can help improve soil fertility and reduce the need for additional fertilizers in the growth environment.
Cultivation Methods for Stizolobium deeringianum Bort
Stizolobium deeringianum Bort, also known as velvet bean, is a legume plant that grows well in tropical and subtropical regions. It thrives in well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. This plant requires direct sunlight, and partial shade may hamper its growth. Sow the seeds directly in the soil or in seed trays, with regular watering, and ensure they get regular air circulation until they germinate. Transplant the seedlings when they are about 5-6 weeks old and the soil has warmed up after the last frost.
Watering Needs
During its growing period, Stizolobium deeringianum Bort requires adequate watering. Water the plant frequently, keeping the soil moist but not water-logged. Excessive watering may cause root rot and hinder growth. Once established, the plant can tolerate brief dry spells.
Fertilization
Stizolobium deeringianum Bort is a leguminous plant that has a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria called Rhizobia. These bacteria form nodules on the plant roots, fixing atmospheric nitrogen, which the plant can access. However, nitrogen-fixing bacteria are not always present in the soil. Supplement the plant with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during the growing stages if needed. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal ratios of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) or a formula with a higher ratio of nitrogen for better growth.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Stizolobium deeringianum Bort, and it may even reduce the plant's nutrient reserves. If the plant is being used for cover crops, pruning or trimming may be beneficial to eliminate unwanted growth and facilitate the harvesting of pods and seeds. However, if maintaining a compact plant or hedge is desired, trimming can be conducted for this purpose.
Propagation of Stizolobium deeringianum Bort
There are several methods of propagating Stizolobium deeringianum Bort, including:
Seed Propagation
Stizolobium deeringianum Bort can be propagated from seeds. The seeds should be collected from mature pods and then soaked in water for a few hours to soften the hard seed coat. Scarification or treatment with sulfuric acid or hot water could be applied to make it easier for the seeds to germinate. After scarification, the seeds can be sown directly in the field or in pots filled with a mixture of sand and loam soil. The soil should be kept consistently moist until the seeds have germinated.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation by cuttings of Stizolobium deeringianum Bort is possible, but it is less common than seed propagation. Cuttings should be taken from the new growth, with at least three nodes per cutting. The lower leaves should be stripped, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being placed in a pot filled with a mixture of sand and loam soil. The soil should be kept consistently moist, and the cutting should be placed in an area with bright, indirect light until it has rooted.
Division Propagation
Stizolobium deeringianum Bort can also be propagated by division. This method is best done in the spring or fall when the plant is not in active growth. The plant should be dug up, and the roots should be carefully separated into sections. Each section should contain a healthy root system and several shoots. These sections can then be planted in pots or directly in the field and kept consistently moist until established.
Disease and Pest Management for Stizolobium Deeringianum Bort
Stizolobium deeringianum Bort is a leguminous plant that is known for its high nutrient content and medicinal properties. However, as with any plant, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and yield. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect this plant:
Common Diseases
1. Anthracnose - This fungal disease affects the leaves, stems, and pods of the plant. The infected parts may have sunken spots, yellowing, and wilting. To manage this disease, it is important to remove infected plant parts and use fungicides as needed.
2. Root Rot - This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant, leading to wilting and plant death. It thrives in wet and poorly-drained soils. To manage this disease, it is important to ensure proper drainage, avoid overwatering, and use fungicides as needed.
3. Bacterial Blight - This disease affects the leaves and stems of the plant, causing water-soaked lesions, wilting, and plant death. To manage this disease, it is important to remove infected plant parts and use fungicides as needed.
Common Pests
1. Whiteflies - These tiny insects can cause damage to the leaves by sucking the sap from the plant. This can lead to yellowing, stunted growth, and reduced yield. To manage this pest, it is important to use insecticidal soap or neem oil, which can be sprayed on the plant.
2. Aphids - These insects also suck sap from the plant and cause curling and yellowing of the leaves. They are more active in warm and dry conditions. To manage this pest, it is important to use insecticidal soap or neem oil, which can be sprayed on the plant.
3. Pod Borers - These insect larvae feed on the pods of the plant, causing damage and reduced yield. To manage this pest, it is important to inspect the pods regularly and remove any infested ones. Natural predators like parasitic wasps can also be introduced to control the pest.
Overall, it is important to practice good crop management techniques such as proper watering, fertilization, and weed control to prevent and manage diseases and pests for Stizolobium deeringianum Bort.
