Plant Profile: Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt
Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to tropical Africa and is mainly found in Tanzania and Zambia. It is also known by its common names, including purple bush pea, cloth-of-ghost, and Tephrosia.
Appearance
The plant grows up to 1.5 m in height, with a woody stem and hairy branches. The leaves are trifoliate, pale green in color, and covered with fine hairs. The flowers are pink or purple in color, borne in spike-like clusters, and have a sweet fragrance. The plant bears fruits in the form of pods that are up to 10 cm long.
Uses
Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt has numerous medicinal uses in traditional African medicine. The plant is known to have antibacterial and antifungal properties and is used to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory infections, diarrhea, fever, and skin diseases. The roots of the plant are also used as a vermifuge to eliminate parasitic worms in the body.
Aside from its medicinal uses, the plant is also used for soil conservation and as a forage crop for livestock. The leaves and young shoots are palatable to livestock and are a good source of protein and nutrients.
In conclusion, Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt is a valuable and versatile plant that has numerous medicinal and agricultural uses. Its beautiful pink or purple flowers also make it an attractive ornamental plant.
Light Requirements
Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt requires full sunlight for optimal growth and development. It is recommended to place the plant in an area that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Inadequate sunlight may lead to stunted growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is best grown in warm climates with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10 degrees Celsius but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can damage the plant. In regions with cooler temperatures, it is advisable to grow the plant in a greenhouse or indoors.
Soil Requirements
Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt grows well in well-draining soils with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral. It prefers soils that are rich in organic matter and nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus. The plant can tolerate moderately saline soils but cannot survive in waterlogged conditions. Sandy loam soils are considered ideal for this plant.
Cultivation methods
Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt is a hardy plant that can adapt to a wide range of growing conditions. It can be grown in full sun or partial shade, and in a variety of soil types including sandy, loamy or clay soil. However, the plant thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
The best time to plant Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt is during spring or early summer. The plant is propagated through seeds or cuttings. If you are using seeds, soak them in water for a few hours before sowing them in the soil.
Watering needs
Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week or whenever the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods of dry weather once established. However, during extended droughts, it is advisable to water the plant occasionally to keep it healthy.
Fertilization
Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt does not require heavy fertilization. The plant can survive on low-nutrient soil. However, to promote healthy growth and improve blooming, you can feed the plant with a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers such as compost, bone meal, or fish emulsion to nourish the soil and improve its fertility.
Pruning
Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt requires minimal pruning. It has a natural shape that does not require shaping or pruning unless it has grown too large or has developed dead or diseased branches.
If pruning is necessary, do it during the dormant season, which is usually in late fall or early winter. Use clean and sharp pruning tools to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the plant.
Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to improve the plant's health and appearance. You can also prune to control the plant's size and shape, but avoid over-pruning as it can lead to stunted growth and reduced blooming.
Propagation of Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt
The plant Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt can be propagated through seeds and cuttings.
Propagation via seeds
The seeds of Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt are small and should be collected when the pods have matured and turned brown. Once collected, the seeds should be left to dry out in a cool and dry place for at least two weeks. Afterward, the seeds should be sown in seedling trays filled with a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and watered regularly. Germination should occur within 2-3 weeks.
Propagation via cuttings
Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt can also be propagated from cuttings. Branches should be taken from mature plants that are disease-free, and at least 10cm long. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. They should be kept in a humid environment with high levels of light, but not direct sunlight. The cuttings should be watered regularly. Root formation should occur within 2-3 weeks.
Both propagation methods have a relatively high success rate and can be used to increase the population of Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt in home gardens or for conservation efforts.
Disease Management
The Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt is a hardy plant species, but it can still be subject to diseases. The following are common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil, resulting in the roots' decay. To manage root rot, reduce watering frequency, ensure good drainage, and avoid over-fertilization.
- Leaf Spot: Caused by fungal or bacterial infection, leaf spot can cause yellowing or browning of leaves. It can be managed by removing infected leaves and adjusting the watering schedule to prevent prolonged leaf moisture.
- Anthracnose: Another fungal infection that can cause brown lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruits. It can be managed by pruning infected areas and applying a fungicide.
Pest Management
Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt may also attract pests, such as:
- Aphids: These tiny insects suck the plant's sap and excrete honeydew that can attract ants and cause fungal growth. To manage aphids, use a strong stream of water to remove them or apply insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These pests are too small and can be hard to detect until plants have been damaged. They prefer hot and dry conditions and can cause webbing and yellowing leaves. To manage spider mites, remove heavily infected leaves and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Cutworms: These caterpillar-like pests will cut off young seedlings at the soil line. To manage cutworms, use protective collars or apply Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) insecticide to the soil before planting.
Regular maintenance practices, such as proper watering, pruning, and sanitation methods, can help prevent and manage diseases and pests in Tephrosia stormsii De Wild. var. pilosa Brummitt plants.
