Overview
Tephrosia aurantiaca Harms subsp. hirsutostylosa Dewit is a beautiful and stunning flowering plant species that belongs to the pea family, Fabaceae. It is indigenous to South Africa, where it grows naturally in grasslands, rocky outcrops, and forest margins. The plant species is known by a variety of common names, including Hairy style beetle-pea, Hairy styled tephrosia and varicoloured tephrosia.
Appearance
The plant grows up to a height of 60cm, with a sprawling, hairy stem and branches. The leaves are compound, consisting of three leaflets, and are alternate on the stem. The flowers, which bloom from July to November, appear in terminal clusters and are bright orange or red-orange in colour. The plant's seed pods are hairy and can be seen after flowering.
Uses
The Hairy style beetle-pea has a variety of uses, both medicinal and otherwise. The plant's roots have been traditionally used in South African traditional medicine to treat skin disorders, asthma, and diarrhoea. The plant is also used as a natural dye, with its roots producing a yellow or greenish-yellow tint.
Tephrosia aurantiaca Harms subsp. hirsutostylosa Dewit is a popular garden plant species due to its bright orange and red-orange flowers. It is the perfect addition to rock gardens and wildflower gardens. Bird and butterfly enthusiasts will also be delighted to know that the plant attracts a range of birds and butterflies to the garden.
Cultivation
The plant is propagated by seeds or cuttings and requires well-drained soil and full sun exposure to thrive. It is also drought-tolerant and suited to a wide range of soil types. To maintain its bushy appearance, it is advisable to prune the plant regularly.
In conclusion, Tephrosia aurantiaca Harms subsp. hirsutostylosa Dewit is a beautiful plant species that has a range of uses from medicinal to ornamental. It is the perfect addition to any garden and requires minimal maintenance.Light Requirements
Tephrosia aurantiaca Harms subsp. hirsutostylosa Dewit requires full sunlight to grow and thrive. It cannot tolerate shade or partial shade and must be grown in a location where it will receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. In areas with very hot climates, it may benefit from some protection from the intense midday sun.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can be grown in a range of temperatures but prefers a warm and temperate climate. It can tolerate high temperatures, but too much heat can be detrimental to the plant's growth. Ideal temperatures range from 18 to 30°C (64 to 86°F). In winter, it can tolerate mild frosts when established, but it is best to protect it from extreme cold.
Soil Requirements
Tephrosia aurantiaca Harms subsp. hirsutostylosa Dewit requires well-draining soil. It grows best in a sandy loam to loam soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range between 6 and 7.5. It does not like heavy soils or soils that are overly compacted or poorly drained.
The plant is drought-tolerant and can withstand periods of dryness but prefers a consistent level of moisture. It is best to avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot. When planting, adding organic matter such as compost can help improve soil structure and provide nutrients for the plant to grow.
Cultivation Methods
When it comes to cultivating Tephrosia aurantiaca Harms subsp. hirsutostylosa Dewit, it prefers to be grown in a warm and sunny environment. You can grow this plant in pots or directly in the ground.
For pot planting, choose a pot with proper drainage holes, and fill it with good quality soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, between 6.0 to 7.0. Germination starts within 7 to 14 days at temperatures of 20-25 °C.
Watering Needs
Watering is essential for healthy plant growth. Tephrosia aurantiaca Harms subsp. hirsutostylosa Dewit prefers slightly moist soil. Water the plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as it can cause root rot. The soil should be watered thoroughly and then allowed to dry slightly before the next watering.
Fertilization
Tephrosia aurantiaca Harms subsp. hirsutostylosa Dewit requires regular fertilization to maintain optimum growth. You can apply slow-release fertilizer during the season or use organic fertilizers such as compost weekly or monthly. Always follow the directions on the label of the fertilizer before applying it.
Pruning
Tephrosia aurantiaca Harms subsp. hirsutostylosa Dewit does not require heavy pruning. However, regular pruning will help to maintain its compact shape and keep it bushy. You can prune unwanted branches, deadhead faded flowers, and trim the plant to the desired height using pruners or scissors.
Propagation of Tephrosia aurantiaca Harms subsp. hirsutostylosa Dewit
Tephrosia aurantiaca Harms subsp. hirsutostylosa Dewit can be propagated by various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
The plant produces seeds in pods that should be harvested when mature. The seeds can be sown immediately or dried and stored for future use. Prior to sowing, the seeds must be scarified or abraded to promote germination. This can be achieved by either rubbing the seeds with sandpaper or boiling them in water for a few minutes. Once prepared, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination occurs.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is a quicker method of producing new plants and results in plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant. Cuttings should be taken from the parent plant in spring or summer, selecting healthy stems that are free from disease and pests. The cuttings should be approximately 10-15cm long and stripped of the lower leaves. The cuttings can be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining soil mix. It is recommended to cover the cuttings with a plastic bag or dome to maintain high humidity and prevent wilting. Roots should develop in a few weeks.
Propagation by Division
Tephrosia aurantiaca Harms subsp. hirsutostylosa Dewit can also be propagated by division. This method involves dividing the parent plant into smaller sections and replanting them in a new location. Divisions should be made in spring or autumn when the plant is not actively growing. The roots of the parent plant should be carefully dug up and separated into smaller sections, each with its own stem and leaves. The divided plants should be replanted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until established.
Disease and Pest Management for Tephrosia aurantiaca Harms subsp. hirsutostylosa Dewit
Tephrosia aurantiaca Harms subsp. hirsutostylosa Dewit is a perennial flowering plant that is prone to certain pests and diseases. Here are some common issues that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spot: Fungal leaf spot is a common issue that causes brown or black spots on the leaves. It can be managed by removing the affected leaves and applying a fungicide.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that makes white powdery spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It can be prevented by increasing air circulation around the plant and applying fungicides.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease caused by overwatering. It can be managed by reducing watering and applying fungicides.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from the plant. They can be managed by spraying the plant with water or applying insecticides.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies, and they feed on the leaves of the plant. They can be managed by removing them by hand or applying insecticides.
Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, white insects that feed on plant sap. They can be managed by removing affected leaves and applying insecticides.
Regular monitoring and prompt intervention are crucial in controlling plant diseases and pests. Keep in mind that prevention is better than cure, and taking good care of the plant by providing proper cultural practices such as fertilization and good watering habits is essential in maintaining its health and vigor.
