Origin
Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert is a flowering plant that belongs to the family of Fabaceae. It is native to southeastern Africa, specifically in East Africa ranging from Tanzania to Mozambique.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the Massai triple-winged bean, as well as the Massai Burundi bean.
Appearance
Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert is a perennial herb that grows up to 2m tall. It has trifoliate leaves, which makes it sometimes mistaken for the pigeon pea. The plant produces racemes of pink to white flowers that are about 3 cm long. The fruit is a slender pod, containing 20-30 seeds.
Uses
The Massai triple-winged bean is used for food and medicinal purposes. The bean can be cooked fresh or dried to be used in soups, stews, and curries. Its seeds are also ground to make flour for porridge and bread. In some areas, the plant is also used for soil conservation and erosion control.
Medicinally, Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert has been used to treat gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea and dysentery. The plant also has anti-inflammatory properties and can relieve pain. Some studies also suggest that the plant may have potential in treating leishmaniasis and certain types of cancer.
Light Requirements
The Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert requires bright but indirect sunlight. It cannot tolerate direct sunlight for prolonged periods as it may cause the leaves to wilt and burn.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert is between 18°C to 25°C. However, it can tolerate slightly lower temperatures during the winter season. Temperatures below 10°C can cause damage to the leaves and the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH range between 5.5 to 6.5 is optimal for the growth of this plant. The soil should be kept uniformly moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. It is recommended to add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil every two to three months to maintain the plant’s health.
Cultivation
The Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert can be grown indoors or outdoors. The plant prefers well-draining soil and partial shade. Ensure that the plant is not overexposed to the sun, as this could damage its leaves.
If planting the Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert outdoors, ensure that it is planted during the rainy season. During planting, ensure that the soil around the plant is loose so that the roots can spread out easily.
Watering Needs
The Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert has moderate watering needs. Water the plant once a week and ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. The soil should not be allowed to dry out completely.
Watering should be reduced during the plant's dormant period to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
The Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert requires fertilization every three months. Use a water-soluble fertilizer, and apply it to the plant's base.
During the rainy season, the plant does not require fertilizer as it can obtain nutrients from the soil.
Pruning
The Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert requires pruning to control its size and shape. Pruning should be done during the plant's dormant period.
Remove dead and yellowing leaves, as well as branches that have become too long. Pruning can be done using a sharp, sterile cutting tool.
It is important to note that excessive pruning can harm the plant and reduce its ability to produce flowers and fruit.
Propagation of Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert
Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert can be propagated through both seed and cuttings. However, the success rate of propagation through seed is low, so propagation through cuttings is the preferable method.
Propagation through cuttings
The best time to take cuttings from Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert is during the summer months. The cuttings should be taken from the semi-hardwood sections of the plant and should be around 10-15cm in length. It is important that the cuttings are taken from healthy and disease-free plants.
The cuttings should then be treated with rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. Place the pot in a warm, bright, and humid location and ensure that the soil is kept moist. After a few weeks, the cuttings should root and can be transplanted to a larger pot or planted in the garden.
Propagation through seed
Propagation through seed is possible but can be challenging. The seeds of Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert should be sown in a well-draining potting mix in early spring. It is important to keep the soil moist and warm, around 25-30°C, to aid germination.
However, the germination rate of these seeds is low, and it can take up to a year for the seedlings to emerge. It is also important to note that the characteristics of the offspring may not necessarily be similar to those of the parent plant.
Disease Management
Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert can be affected by various diseases, including
- Root rot: caused by fungi in overly moist soil. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.
- Leaf spots: caused by fungi or bacteria, resulting in circular or irregularly shaped spots on leaves. To manage leaf spots, promptly remove and destroy affected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
- Powdery mildew: caused by fungi and appears as a white powdery substance on leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage powdery mildew, prune affected areas and improve air circulation around the plant.
Preventative measures, such as planting disease-resistant varieties and maintaining proper plant nutrition, can also help prevent disease.
Pest Management
Common pests that can affect Triaspis macropteron Welw. ex Oliv. subsp. massaiensis (Nied.) Launert include:
- Aphids: small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to become distorted. To manage aphids, rinse them off leaves with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: tiny pests that feed on plant sap and spin webs on leaves. To manage spider mites, wash them off leaves with water or use an insecticidal soap.
- Scale insects: small insects that attach themselves to the stems and leaves, sucking sap and causing yellowing. To manage scale insects, regularly inspect the plant and remove affected areas or use insecticidal soap.
Preventative measures, such as regularly inspecting the plant for signs of pests and providing proper soil drainage and aeration, can also help prevent pest infestations.
