Description of Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. subsp. labialis
Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. subsp. labialis is a species of leguminous plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. The plant is native to the tropical regions of Africa and is commonly found in countries like Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Sudan.
Common Names
Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. subsp. labialis is commonly known by different names in different regions. In Ethiopia, it is called "Kesso" by the Amharic-speaking people while in Kenya, it is known as "Mtoroto" by the Pokot community. In Tanzania, it is called "Mshingapi" by the Chaga people, and the Giriama people of Kenya call it "Mkangazi".
General Appearance
The Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. subsp. labialis plant is a perennial climber that can grow up to 10 meters in length. The leaves are trifoliate and have rounded leaflets that are hairy on both sides. The flowers are pinkish-purple and develop in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruits are cylindrical pods that measure up to 8 cm in length and contain up to 10 seeds.
Uses
The Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. subsp. labialis plant has various uses. In traditional medicine, it is used to treat various illnesses such as asthma, flu, and stomach ailments. The plant is also used as a source of livestock forage and the pods are used as a vegetable in some cultures. Additionally, the plant is used to prevent soil erosion, and its roots are used to improve soil fertility.
Light Conditions:
Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. subsp. labialis is a plant that thrives well in areas that receive abundant sunlight. However, it can also tolerate partial shade conditions, as long as it receives about 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant can grow and develop well in regions with warm to hot temperatures. The ideal temperature range for growth typically ranges between 20-35°C. However, the plant can withstand temperatures as high as 40°C. It is sensitive to frost and grows well in areas with mild winters.
Soil Requirements:
The plant grows well in well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range. It thrives best in soils that are rich in organic matter and are moderately fertile. It can also tolerate drought conditions to some extent but needs frequent watering during the early growth stages to establish well.
Cultivation
Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. subsp. labialis is a tropical plant that prefers warm, humid climates. It can be grown in full sun or partial shade. The plant grows well in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It can be propagated by seeds or cuttings, and it is best to plant during the rainy season.
Watering Needs
Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. subsp. labialis requires regular watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is essential to water the plant regularly during the dry season to prevent the leaves from drying out and falling off. Overwatering should be avoided, as it may lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. subsp. labialis requires regular fertilizer application to promote healthy growth. A balanced fertilizer, rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, should be applied once every two weeks during the growing season. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, can also be used to nourish the plant.
Pruning
Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. subsp. labialis requires regular pruning to promote bushy growth and prevent legginess. Pruning should be done during the rainy season, and any dead, diseased, or damaged stems should be removed. Pinching back the tips of the growing stems can also encourage bushy growth.
Propagation of Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. subsp. labialis
Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. subsp. labialis can be propagated by multiple methods, including seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and stem cuttings.
Seed propagation
The easiest way to propagate Teramnus labialis is through seeding. The plant produces seeds once the flowers have finished blooming. The seeds can then be collected and sown in well-draining soil. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water overnight to aid in germination. The seedlings will begin sprouting within 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings are strong enough, they can be transplanted to outdoor settings.
Vegetative propagation
Teramnus labialis can also be propagated through vegetative propagation. The process involves taking cuttings from healthy, mature plants and planting them in well-draining soil. Before planting the cuttings, they should be soaked in water for a few hours. The cuttings should be planted in individual pots to allow them enough space to grow. The cuttings should start showing signs of growth within 2-3 weeks, and they can be transplanted outdoors once they are strong enough.
Stem cuttings
The process of stem cutting is similar to vegetative propagation. However, in stem cutting, the cutting is taken from the stem of the plant instead of the leaves. A healthy stem is cut off and planted in well-draining soil. Before planting, the stem cutting should be soaked in water for a few hours. The cutting should be planted in individual pots, and once it has taken root, it can be transplanted outdoors.
Disease and Pest Management for Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. subsp. labialis
Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. subsp. labialis, also known as purple bush-bean, is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can impact the plant's growth and yield. Effective management of these diseases and pests is crucial to ensure healthy plants and a successful harvest.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting purple bush-bean is powdery mildew, a fungal disease that appears as a white powder on the leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to maintain good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Another disease that can affect this plant is root rot, which is caused by waterlogging and poor drainage. To prevent root rot, it is essential to ensure that the soil is well-draining and not overwatered. Fungicides can also be used to manage the disease.
Common Pests
Purple bush-bean is vulnerable to several pests, including aphids, bean leaf beetles, and spider mites. Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing stunted growth and deformation. To control aphids, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Bean leaf beetles are also a common problem, causing extensive damage to the foliage. The beetles are known to chew holes in the leaves and transmit diseases. To manage these pests, it is recommended to use insecticides or kaolin spray.
Spider mites are another pest that can be problematic for purple bush-bean. These tiny pests suck sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and wilting. To control spider mites, it is recommended to use miticides or insecticidal soap.
Preventive Measures
Effective management of diseases and pests for purple bush-bean requires a combination of preventive measures and treatments. Preventive measures include good cultural practices like crop rotation, maintaining proper sanitation, and providing the plant with optimal growing conditions. Additionally, early detection and treatment of diseases and pests can help prevent their spread and minimize their impact on the plant.
Regularly monitoring plants for signs of disease and pest infestation is crucial, as is removing infected or infested plants as soon as possible. Keeping the garden clean and weed-free can also aid in preventing the spread of diseases and pests. Finally, always ensure to follow the instructions on the label when using pesticides to avoid damaging the plant or the environment.
