Overview
Teramnus gracilis Chiov., commonly known as the slender jackbean, is a perennial vine that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the African continent, and it is widely grown in tropical regions for its medicinal and agricultural purposes.
Appearance
The slender jackbean has slender stems that can grow up to 2-4 meters long. It has trifoliate leaves with ovate or lanceolate leaflets that have a pointed tip. The flowers are yellow and borne in axillary racemes; they are followed by pods that contain dark brown seeds.
Common names
The Teramnus gracilis Chiov. plant is known by a variety of names in different regions. Some of its common names include:
- Slender jackbean
- African yam bean
- Akipa
- Ate
- Esuwarha
- Terere
Uses
Teramnus gracilis Chiov. has various uses in the traditional African medicine system. The roots, leaves, and seeds are used to treat infertility, inflammatory conditions, and hypertension. The seeds are also used to induce lactation in nursing mothers. The plant is also used in agriculture as a cover crop and a source of animal feed, owing to its high protein content. Additionally, it is used as a green manure in soil fertility improvement.
Growth Conditions for Teramnus Gracilis Chiov.
Teramnus Gracilis Chiov. is a hardy, perennial plant that belongs to the legume family. It is native to tropical Africa and can be found in a variety of habitats, from savannas to forests. To grow Teramnus Gracilis Chiov. successfully, it is important to provide the right conditions for the plant's growth and development.
Light Requirements
Teramnus Gracilis Chiov. thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires a minimum of 6-8 hours of sunlight per day, but it can also tolerate some shade. If grown in partial or full shade, the plant may become more elongated and produce fewer flowers and seeds.
Temperature Requirements
Teramnus Gracilis Chiov. prefers warm temperatures, with an optimal range between 20-30°C. The plant can tolerate some temperature variations, but it is sensitive to frost and cold temperatures. In areas with colder winters, it is best to grow the plant as an annual or in a greenhouse.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is moderately acidic to neutral (pH 6-7). It can tolerate a range of soil textures, from sandy to loamy, as long as the soil is not waterlogged. Teramnus Gracilis Chiov. is also adaptable to a range of soil types, from poor to rich soils, and can grow in both alkaline and acid soils.
Overall, by providing the right light, temperature, and soil conditions, Teramnus Gracilis Chiov. can grow and thrive in a variety of settings.
Cultivation Methods
Teramnus gracilis Chiov. is a tropical or subtropical plant that thrives in warm and humid conditions. It prefers well-draining soil that retains moisture but doesn't become waterlogged. The plant can be grown from seed or propagated by stem cuttings.
When sowing seeds, it is best to plant them in trays filled with a mixture of soil and compost. Keep the soil moist and place the trays in a warm and sunny location. After a few weeks, the seedlings can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground.
For stem cuttings, take a healthy stem from the plant and strip it of its leaves. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with a mixture of soil and compost. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm and shady location. After a few weeks, the cutting should start to grow roots and can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Watering Needs
Teramnus gracilis Chiov. requires regular watering, especially during the hot and dry months. It is important not to overwater the plant as this can lead to root rot. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Watering once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions, should be sufficient.
Fertilization
The plant responds well to regular fertilization with an all-purpose fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer once every four weeks during the growing season, which is typically during the spring and summer months. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging, as different fertilizers have different application rates. Overfertilization should be avoided as it can lead to salt buildup in the soil.
Pruning
Teramnus gracilis Chiov. benefits from regular pruning to encourage bushy growth and to control its size. Pruning should be done during the plant's dormant season, which is typically during the winter months. Remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. Pruning can be done using sharp and sterilized pruning shears.
Propagation of Teramnus Gracilis Chiov.
Teramnus gracilis Chiov. can be propagated through several methods, including seeds, stem cuttings, and division. However, keep in mind that this plant can be challenging to propagate and may require some patience and careful attention.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Teramnus gracilis Chiov. is through seeds. Collect mature seed pods and allow them to dry for a few days before extracting the small, black seeds. Soak the seeds in water overnight to help with germination. Plant the seeds in a mixture of peat and sand and keep them evenly moist. Germination usually occurs within 7-14 days.
Stem Cutting Propagation
To propagate Teramnus gracilis Chiov. through stem cuttings, take cuttings from a healthy parent plant during the growing season. Use a sterile blade to cut a 3-4 inch section of stem and remove the leaves from the lower half. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a mixture of peat and perlite. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a bright, but indirect light. It may take several weeks for roots to develop.
Division Propagation
To propagate Teramnus gracilis Chiov. through division, wait until the plant is at least two years old and has become quite crowded. Dig up the plant carefully and separate the rootball into smaller sections. Replant the sections in potting soil and keep them moist. Make sure to keep the plant in a cool, shaded area until new growth has occurred.
Disease and Pest Management for Teramnus Gracilis Chiov.
Teramnus gracilis Chiov. is a plant that is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Proper management techniques are crucial to control its infestation and promote growth.
Common Diseases Affecting Teramnus Gracilis Chiov.
Anthracnose: is a fungal disease that causes dark lesions on leaves and stems. A severe infection can cause wilting, stunting, and death of the plant. To manage it, use a fungicide such as copper oxychloride or chlorothalonil.
Sooty Mold: is a fungal disease that grows on the honeydew secreted by sap-sucking insects on the plant. The mold causes a black coating on the leaves, reducing photosynthesis and growth. Manage it by controlling insects on the plant.
Root Rot: is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot and die. It usually occurs in plants growing in poorly drained soils or overwatered. Avoid overwatering and provide proper drainage to control it. Use a fungicide such as carbendazim to manage the disease.
Common Pests Affecting Teramnus Gracilis Chiov.
Aphids: are small sap-sucking insects that leave a sticky residue on the plant. They can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunting of the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
Whiteflies: are small insects that feed on the underside of the leaves, causing yellowing and wilting of the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage them.
Spider Mites: are tiny arachnids that suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
Thrips: are tiny insects that feed on the plant, causing leaf curling and deformities. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
In conclusion, Teramnus gracilis Chiov. is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and production. Effective disease and pest management techniques are crucial to control infestations and promote growth.
