Overview
Tephrosia reptans Baker var. microfoliata (Pires de Lima) Brummitt is a flowering plant species native to Brazil and other parts of South America. It belongs to the Fabaceae family, commonly known as the pea family, and is also referred to as "Tephrosia" or "Rambling Milkvetch".
Description
The plant typically grows up to 30cm in height and has numerous, thin, and delicate stems that spread extensively through the ground. The leaves are oval-shaped, measuring approximately 10mm by 5mm, and are greyish-green. The flowers grow in groups on stalks coming out from the leaf axils and are about 8mm long. The petals are pink or purple with a yellowish-white standard that has a purple central mark. The flower's calyx is covered in long white hairs.
Uses
The indigenous communities of Brazil have known for centuries that this plant has medicinal properties. Traditionally, its leaves and roots have been used to treat a variety of ailments, including inflammation, respiratory diseases, and snakebites.
The presence of flavonoid compounds, such as tephrosin and its derivatives, in Tephrosia reptans Baker var. microfoliata (Pires de Lima) Brummitt has attracted the attention of researchers who have found the plant to exhibit anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant properties. Studies have also shown that the plant extracts have potential in treating some types of cancer.
Cultivation
Tephrosia reptans Baker var. microfoliata (Pires de Lima) Brummitt prefers a warm, moist environment and thrives in sandy or loamy soils with good drainage. It is a hardy plant that can grow in both full sunlight and partial shade. Propagation can be achieved through seeding or cuttings and should be done in spring or summer. The plant is also useful as a cover crop or used for erosion control due to its extensive root system, which can stabilize soil and reduce water runoff.
Light Requirements
Tephrosia reptans Baker var. microfoliata requires full sunlight or partial shade for optimal growth. When grown in partial shade, it should receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Inadequate sunlight can lead to reduced growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm temperatures, preferably between 20-32°C. It prefers a warm and moderately humid climate. Temperatures below 10°C are unsuitable for the plant's growth as it is sensitive to frost and cold damage, which can cause leaf drop and stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained, moist, and sandy soil. It can also grow in clayey soils with proper drainage. The soil pH should be between 6.1 and 7.8. The plant is sensitive to waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and death. Adding organic matter, such as compost or manure, to the soil before planting can enhance the soil's fertility and nutrient uptake by the plant.
Cultivation
Tephrosia reptans Baker var. microfoliata (Pires de Lima) Brummitt plant is well adapted to tropical and subtropical regions, with a preference for sandy soils. The ideal time for planting is during the rainy season, as this is when the plant will have better chances of establishing its root system.
The plant prefers sunny locations with partial shade and should be planted in areas with excellent drainage. It can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. If using seeds, they should be soaked in warm water overnight before planting to break their dormancy. Cuttings should be taken from mature plants and planted in well-drained soil.
Watering needs
Tephrosia reptans Baker var. microfoliata (Pires de Lima) Brummitt requires adequate water supply. During the rainy season, the plant can withstand heavy rainfall. However, during the dry season, the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
It is vital to note that the plant should not sit in water, as this can lead to root rot. Irrigation can be done twice a week during the dry season, and this should be reduced during the raining season.
Fertilization
The Tephrosia reptans Baker var. microfoliata (Pires de Lima) Brummitt plant requires regular fertilization for optimal growth. A balanced fertilizer with higher phosphorus content is recommended, as this will promote root and flower development.
Application should be done during the rainy season, and fertilizer should be applied to the soil, and not the plant's leaves. Over-fertilization should be avoided, as this can lead to burning or stress of the plant.
Pruning
Regular pruning of the plant is needed to promote bushy growth and increase flower production. Pruning should be done early in the growing season after new leaves have grown.
The pruning should target damaged stems, broken branches, and dead leaves to maintain plant health. It is also essential to remove any suckers or shoots that may have sprouted from the base of the plant to promote proper growth.
Pruning should be done with clean and sharp tools to avoid injuring the plant, and the cuts should be made at a 45-degree angle to enhance quick healing.
Propagation of Tephrosia reptans Baker var. microfoliata
Tephrosia reptans Baker var. microfoliata is propagated through several methods including:
Seed Propagation
For seed propagation, the seeds are collected from mature pods, dry them for several days, and then sow them in potting soil. The seeds should be planted at a depth of one to two times their size. Germination usually takes 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings should be kept in a well-lit area.
Cutting Propagation
A stem cutting usually about 6-8 inches long can also be easily rooted in water or moist potting soil. When rooting in soil, it is best to dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting in the soil. Keep the soil moist and the cuttings will begin producing roots in 2-4 weeks. Once rooted, transplant them to individual containers, or into a larger pot or the garden.
Division Propagation
Division propagation of Tephrosia reptans Baker var. microfoliata involves lifting the entire plant from the ground, and dividing the root clump into smaller pieces, each with buds and shoots, and replanting them in a well-draining garden soil or individual pots. This method is best carried out in the spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing or in hot weather to mitigate transplant shock.
With proper maintenance and care, the propagation of Tephrosia reptans Baker var. microfoliata can be highly successful and result in a healthy and beautiful plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Tephrosia reptans Baker var. microfoliata (Pires de Lima) Brummitt
Tephrosia reptans Baker var. microfoliata (Pires de Lima) Brummitt is a hardy plant that can suffer from a few diseases and pest attacks. Here are some common ones and how to manage them:
Diseases
Root rot: Root rot is a common disease caused by waterlogging or poorly drained soils. The roots of the plant start to rot, causing stunted growth, yellowing and dropping of leaves, and eventual death of the plant. To manage root rot, ensure the plant is planted in well-draining soils, avoid overwatering or watering on the leaves, and use fungicides to treat the disease.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It typically occurs in humid conditions and can cause defoliation and weakened plant growth. To manage powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering, improve air circulation, prune the affected parts of the plant, and apply fungicides.
Leaf spots: Leaf spots are caused by fungal or bacterial infections and appear as small, dark spots on the leaves. The infected leaves may become yellow and fall. To manage leaf spots, prune the affected parts of the plant, apply fungicides, practice good sanitation, and ensure the plant is not stressed.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They appear in clusters on the leaves and stems and can transmit viruses, stunt plant growth, and cause wilting. To manage aphids, prune the affected parts of the plant, wash the leaves with water, use insecticidal soaps, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of different moth and butterfly species and can cause extensive damage by chewing on the leaves, flowers, and stems of the plant. To manage caterpillars, pick them off by hand, use biological control methods such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or spinosad, or deploy natural predators like birds.
Mites: Mites are tiny arthropods that suck sap from the leaves and cause stippling or yellowing of leaves, and webs on the plant's surface. To manage mite infestations, use miticides like sulfur, horticultural oils, or insecticidal soaps, improve humidity around the plant, or introduce predators like ladybugs and predatory mites.
By managing diseases and pests effectively, you can ensure your Tephrosia reptans Baker var. microfoliata (Pires de Lima) Brummitt plant remains healthy and thrives.
