Description:
Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. var. abyssinicus (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Verdc. is a perennial climbing plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is a subspecies of Teramnus labialis and is commonly found in tropical and sub-tropical regions of Africa.
Common Names:
The plant is commonly known as the Abyssinian velvet bean or Ethiopian velvet bean.
Uses:
Teramnus labialis var. abyssinicus has several medicinal properties and is used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and dysentery. The plant is a good source of protein, and its young leaves and pods are edible and consumed as a vegetable. The seeds of the plant are also used as animal feed. In addition, Teramnus labialis var. abyssinicus has potential use in soil improving and nitrogen fixation.
General Appearance:
The plant has a woody stem that can grow up to 4-5 meters long. The leaves are trifoliate and velvety, with a length of 3-10 cm. The flowers are small, light purple, and bloom in late summer or early autumn. The plant produces long, flattened pods that are 6-8 cm long and contain 4-6 seeds. The seeds are brown in color and have a velvet texture.
Light conditions
Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. var. abyssinicus (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Verdc. thrives in full sun exposure and requires ample sunlight for proper growth and development. It is a light-loving plant and requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth.
Temperature requirements
Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. var. abyssinicus (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Verdc. grows well under warm to hot temperatures ranging from 20 to 35°C. It is a tropical plant and cannot tolerate temperatures below 10°C. Extreme temperature fluctuations can negatively impact growth and development.
Soil requirements
The plant's ideal growth medium is a well-draining sandy or loamy soil. It requires a soil pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth. Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. var. abyssinicus (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Verdc. is adaptable to a wide range of soil types but prefers a soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant is also drought-tolerant and can withstand extended periods without water.
Cultivation methods of Teramnus labialis
Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. var. abyssinicus (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Verdc. is a perennial plant that thrives in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It can be propagated through either seeds or stem cuttings. For better germination, the seeds should be soaked overnight in water and planted in well-draining soil. Stem cuttings can be taken from mature plants and planted in potting soil mix.
Watering needs of Teramnus labialis
Teramnus labialis requires regular watering to maintain healthy growth. The plant prefers consistent and moderate watering rather than occasional heavy watering. To avoid waterlogging, ensure proper drainage in the soil. The frequency of watering depends on several factors such as the climate, humidity, and soil type. Generally, it is recommended to water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization of Teramnus labialis
The plant requires regular fertilization to encourage optimal growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended. The fertilizer should be applied once every month during the growing season (spring and summer). Organic fertilizers such as compost or manure can also offer adequate nutrition to the plant.
Pruning Teramnus labialis
Regular pruning is essential to maintain a compact and bushy appearance of Teramnus labialis. Pinching the growing tips of the plant can encourage the development of lateral shoots, resulting in a fuller growth habit. Deadheading is also recommended to remove spent flowers and prevent the plant from going to seed. Pruning should be done during the dormant period (winter) to avoid any damage to the plant.
Propagation of Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. var. abyssinicus (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Verdc.
Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. var. abyssinicus (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Verdc. can be propagated through various methods. Some of the common propagation methods are:
Seed Propagation
The plant produces seeds that can be used to propagate. Collect the seeds when they are ripe and sown immediately. The first step before sowing the seeds is to soak them overnight in clean water. The seeds should then be sown in well-drained soil. The seedlings usually emerge after 2-3 weeks and can be transplanted to their final destination after they reach a height of 5-6 cm.
Cutting Propagation
Teramnus labialis (L.f.) Spreng. var. abyssinicus (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Verdc. can be propagated through cuttings as well. Stem cuttings, about 10-15 cm long and with at least two nodes, should be taken from healthy plants during the growing season. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder and insert them in a growing medium such as perlite or vermiculite. The cuttings should then be kept in a warm and humid environment until they develop roots. Rooted cuttings can be transplanted to larger pots or directly into the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Teramnus labialis
Teramnus labialis, also known as butterfly pea or wild bean, is a leguminous plant that is commonly grown for its medicinal and ornamental properties. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Root Rot: This disease is caused by waterlogging, poor drainage, or fungal infections. Symptoms include wilting of leaves, yellowing, and dark or softening roots. To manage root rot, improve the drainage of soil, do not overwater, and remove the affected parts.
2. Leaf Spots: This disease is caused by fungi or bacteria. Symptoms include the appearance of spots on the leaves, which can lead to defoliation. To manage leaf spots, remove the affected leaves, improve the air circulation around the plant, and use fungicides as necessary.
3. Powdery Mildew: This disease is caused by fungi. Symptoms include grayish-white powdery growth on the surfaces of leaves. To manage powdery mildew, remove the affected parts, improve the air circulation around the plant, and use fungicides as necessary.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: These are small insects that can cause damage to leaves and stems, and transmit diseases. Symptoms include curling leaves, stunted growth, and sticky honeydew on the plant. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, encourage natural predators like ladybugs, and remove the affected parts.
2. Spider Mites: These are tiny arachnids that can cause yellowing, wilting, and webbing on the plant. Symptoms are generally more noticeable on the undersides of leaves. To manage spider mites, improve the air circulation around the plant, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and remove the affected parts.
3. Caterpillars: These are the larvae of moths and butterflies that can feed on the leaves and stems of the plant. Symptoms include irregular holes and defoliation. To manage caterpillars, remove them by hand, use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) insecticide, or encourage natural predators like birds.
Overall, to prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests, maintain good growing conditions, including proper watering, fertilization, and adequate sunlight. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of damage and take necessary actions promptly.
