Overview
Strophostyles helvula var. missouriensis is a perennial plant belonging to the family Fabaceae. This plant is also commonly known as the Missouri woolly bean. It is native to North America and can be found in regions such as Texas, Oklahoma, and Missouri.
Appearance
The Missouri woolly bean plant has a striking appearance. It grows up to 1.5 meters in height and has a spread of up to 1 meter. The stem of the plant is woody and its leaves are trifoliate with a woolly texture. The flowers are purplish-pink and are arranged in clusters. The fruit of the plant is a legume that is covered in fine hairs.
Uses
The Missouri woolly bean has a variety of uses. Its dense root system makes it useful in soil stabilization and erosion control. The plant is palatable to livestock and wildlife, therefore, it can be used as a forage crop. Native Americans used this plant for food and medicine. Its root was boiled and consumed as a beverage, and was also used to treat various ailments such as skin irritations and digestive issues.
Light Requirements
Strophostyles helvula var. missouriensis is a sun-loving plant and requires at least 6 hours of sunlight each day for optimal growth. It is best to place the plant in a location that receives direct sunlight in the morning and filtered shade in the afternoon. This plant will not thrive in areas with dense shade or too much direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Strophostyles helvula var. missouriensis prefers warm temperatures and thrives in zones 6 through 9a. The optimal temperature range for this plant is 70-80°F (21-27°C). It can tolerate temperatures as high as 95°F (35°C) but will not survive in extended periods of extreme heat. In areas where the temperature drops below 15°F (-9°C), the plant will require protection from the cold.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is essential for the growth and survival of Strophostyles helvula var. missouriensis. The ideal soil pH range for this plant is 6.0-7.5. It can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy loam, loam, and clay. However, the plant thrives in well-drained soil with moderate fertility. Before planting, work compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to provide nutrients and improve drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Strophostyles helvula (L.) Ell. var. missouriensis (S. Wats.) Britt. is a heat-tolerant and drought-resistant plant that grows well in various soil types, including clay, sand, and loam. It thrives in full sun or partial shade, making it ideal for cultivation in the southern parts of the US. Starting the seedlings indoors in early spring gives the seedlings a better chance of survival.
Watering Needs
The plant is highly tolerant of drought and prefers well-drained soil. It can survive without water for 2-3 weeks during periods of drought, but regular watering can help to promote growth and produce a higher yield.
Fertilization
The plant requires very little fertilization, as it has a low nutrient requirement. Using too much fertilizer can cause the plant to produce too much foliage at the expense of flower production. Fertilizer should be applied only once or twice per season, and a balanced NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) fertilizer can be used in small quantities.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Strophostyles helvula (L.) Ell. var. missouriensis (S. Wats.) Britt. However, removing any yellow or dead leaves can improve the plant's overall appearance. It's also a good idea to trim the plant lightly after harvesting to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's shape. Significant trimming should be done in a dormant season or early spring.
Propagation of Strophostyles helvula var. missouriensis
Strophostyles helvula var. missouriensis, commonly known as Missouri River wildbean, is a legume species native to the central and eastern regions of North America.
Propagation by seeds
The most common method of propagating Strophostyles helvula var. missouriensis is by seeds. The seeds should be sown in the spring, after the last frost, in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, until the seedlings emerge, usually within two to three weeks.
It is recommended to scarify the seeds before sowing to break down their hard seed coat, which will allow water to penetrate and promote germination.
Propagation by cuttings
Strophostyles helvula var. missouriensis can also be propagated by cuttings, though this method is less common. Softwood stem cuttings are taken from the parent plant in the summer months, and the leaves on the lower half of the stem are removed. The cuttings are then dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining soil mix.
The cuttings need to be kept in high humidity and out of direct sunlight until they start rooting, which usually takes several weeks. After rooting, the plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Propagation by division
Propagation by division is also possible, though it should be done carefully to prevent damage to the plant's roots. To do this, carefully lift the entire plant from the ground and separate it into smaller sections, ensuring each section has a healthy root system. These sections can then be replanted in their permanent location and watered thoroughly.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is important to keep the newly propagated plants well watered until they become established.
Disease Management
Strophostyles helvula (L.) Ell. var. missouriensis (S. Wats.) Britt. is generally healthy but can be susceptible to certain diseases. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
- Leaf spot: This can be caused by bacteria or fungi and can result in small, dark spots on the leaves. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides can be used to control severe outbreaks.
- Mildew: Powdery mildew can be a problem, especially in humid conditions. Remove infected plant parts and increase air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also be used to control severe outbreaks.
- Root rot: This can be caused by overwatering and poorly drained soil. Make sure the plant is not sitting in water and improve soil drainage. Fungicides can be used to manage severe cases.
Pest Management
Strophostyles helvula (L.) Ell. var. missouriensis (S. Wats.) Britt. is generally not attractive to pests, but here are some common pests that may affect the plant and how to manage them:
- Aphids: These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can also be introduced to the area.
- Spider mites: These can be controlled by regularly spraying the plant with water to increase humidity around the plant. Neem oil and pyrethrin are effective insecticides against spider mites.
- Cutworms: These can be prevented with physical barriers. Collars made of cardboard or plastic can be placed around the base of the plant to deter cutworms from chewing on the stems.
