Origin
Tephrosia quartiniana Cufod. var. inflexa (Chiov.) Cufod. is a species of flowering plant within the Fabaceae family. It is commonly found in East Africa, particularly in Kenya.
Common names
This plant is known by a variety of common names in different regions including Mukinduri (Meru), Kokopan, and Muukeni (Kamba).
Uses
The roots and leaves of Tephrosia quartiniana Cufod. var. inflexa (Chiov.) Cufod. have been used by traditional healers for their medicinal properties. The plant contains various compounds that have been shown to have antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
In addition to its medicinal properties, this plant has also been used as a cover crop to control soil erosion and improve soil fertility. It is also used in agroforestry systems to improve soil health and provide forage for livestock.
General appearance
Tephrosia quartiniana Cufod. var. inflexa (Chiov.) Cufod. is a small shrub that typically grows up to 1 meter in height. It has a woody stem and pinnate leaves that are grey-green in color. The plant produces small, pink or mauve flowers that are arranged in dense clusters. The fruits of the plant are small pods that contain seeds.
Growth Conditions for Tephrosia quartiniana Cufod. var. inflexa (Chiov.) Cufod.
Light Requirements: Tephrosia quartiniana Cufod. var. inflexa (Chiov.) Cufod. prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in bright light conditions and can tolerate some shade, but too much shade may lead to stunted growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature: This plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions and prefers warm temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). It cannot tolerate frost and should be protected from cold temperatures during the winter months.
Soil Requirements: Tephrosia quartiniana Cufod. var. inflexa (Chiov.) Cufod. prefers well-draining soils with a pH between 6.0-7.5. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, but does best in soils that are rich in organic matter. It is not tolerant of saline or waterlogged soils.
Water Requirements: This plant prefers moderate moisture levels and should be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. However, it is important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. It is also important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilizer: Tephrosia quartiniana Cufod. var. inflexa (Chiov.) Cufod. can benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. This can help promote healthy growth and flowering.
Propagation: This plant can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings. Seeds should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until germination occurs. Stem cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and rooted in moist soil or water.
Cultivation methods
Tephrosia quartiniana Cufod. var. inflexa (Chiov.) Cufod. is a sturdy plant that is easy to grow. It thrives in well-drained soils with a slightly acidic pH level. If you're growing it indoors, ensure the plant receives adequate light. When cultivating this plant, it's necessary to: • Provide a well-draining soil mix that is high in organic matter. • Sow the seeds in the desired location while they're still fresh. • As the plant grows, transplant it to the preferred location. • Avoid planting it in the shade since it requires sunlight to flourish. • Give it enough space to spread and stretch its roots.
Watering needs
Tephrosia quartiniana Cufod. var. inflexa (Chiov.) Cufod. requires moderate watering that retains adequate moisture without being too dense. It is recommended to water the plant thoroughly every other day and all around its roots. Watering helps to keep the soil hydrated and regulates the plant's temperature. One important aspect of watering this plant is to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other plant diseases.
Fertilization
Fertilizing this plant improves its growth and vigor. It's crucial to feed it during the growing season to provide the necessary nutrients for optimal growth. You can use regular plant fertilizer high in phosphorus and potassium to promote flowering and enhance its health. A rule of thumb is to apply fertilizer every two weeks to avoid nutrient deficiencies.
Pruning
Pruning Tephrosia quartiniana Cufod. var. inflexa (Chiov.) Cufod is essential to maintain its size and shape. You can prune the plant during the spring or after flowering. Cut off any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and neaten the overall look of the plant. Pruning enhances air circulation, sunlight exposure, and encourages new growth. Always sanitize your pruning tools to avoid transmitting plant diseases.
Propagation of Tephrosia quartiniana Cufod. var. inflexa (Chiov.) Cufod.
Tephrosia quartiniana Cufod. var. inflexa (Chiov.) Cufod. can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
Collect mature seeds from the plant after the fruits start to turn brown. After collecting, dry them in a cool and well-ventilated place for a few days. Then, soak the seeds in clean water for 24 hours before sowing. The seeds can be sown directly in the ground or in containers filled with loamy soil mixed with compost. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and water them regularly. Germination usually takes 10-14 days.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Take cuttings from healthy and mature stems measuring about 15 cm in length. Make sure that each stem cutting has 3-5 nodes. Remove the leaves from the lower end of the cutting, leaving only two at the top. Dip the lower end of the cutting in rooting hormone before planting in a well-draining potting mixture. Cover the pot with a plastic bag and put it in a bright, warm place, but out of direct sunlight. Remove the cover after two weeks and continue to keep the soil moist. The cutting should have roots after 4-6 weeks. At this point, you can transplant it to its final location.
Propagation by Division
Divide mature plants into smaller crowns in the early spring or fall. Dig the plant out using a spade and carefully break the root ball apart. Each division should have a good root system and some leaves. Replant each division into well-draining soil and water thoroughly. Make sure to keep the newly planted areas moist until the plant establishes itself.
Disease Management
Tephrosia quartiniana Cufod. var. inflexa (Chiov.) Cufod. is known to be susceptible to various foliar and soil-borne diseases. Most of the diseases that affect the plant are fungal, which thrive in moist and humid conditions. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spot
This is a fungal disease that causes reddish-brown spots with a yellow halo to appear on the leaves. As the disease progresses, the spots can merge and cause defoliation. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves, avoid overhead irrigation and ensure proper plant spacing to enhance air circulation.
Root Rot
This is a soil-borne fungal disease caused by Fusarium and Pythium species. It causes root discoloration, decay, and eventual death of the plant. The disease thrives in poorly drained soils and overwatered plants. To manage this disease, plant the seedlings in well-draining soils, avoid over-watering and ensure proper drainage of the soil.
Pest Management
Tephrosia quartiniana Cufod. var. inflexa (Chiov.) Cufod. is also known to be susceptible to pest infestations. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Spider Mites
These are tiny pests that attack the plant by sucking sap from the leaves. They cause the leaves to appear stippled and yellowed. To manage this pest, remove and destroy infected leaves, avoid overhead irrigation, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
Cutworms
These are the larvae of adult moths that attack the plant by cutting off the stem at soil level. To manage this pest, remove weeds from around the plant and use a physical barrier such as cardboard collars around the stem to prevent the cutworms from accessing the stem.
Caterpillars
These are the larvae of adult butterflies that attack the plant by feeding on the leaves. To manage this pest, remove and destroy infected leaves and use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide to control their population.
