Description of Vicia bequaertii De Wild.
Vicia bequaertii De Wild. is a perennial plant species belonging to the Fabaceae family.
Origin and Distribution
Vicia bequaertii is native to areas in Central and East Africa which includes regions of Angola, Sudan, Tanzania, and Ethiopia.
Common Names
The species is given a few common names depending on the region. In Angola, it is called 'Belengo', in Ethiopia, it is 'Mergaa Gamaree', 'Hada Duffa' and 'Eknefa' identified it in the Oromo and Afar regional languages.
General Appearance
Vicia bequaertii has a woody stem that grows to a height of four to eight feet. The leaves are green, oval, and in pairs of 14-22 segments, which are spear-shaped and with smooth edges. The petals are in white or pink color which forms a five-toothed corolla about an inch in length, and the fruit is reddish brown pods when fully matured. The plant grows well in the grasslands, semi-arid, and savanna habitats.
Uses
Vicia bequaertii is commonly used for food, pharmaceutical purposes, and a useful source of forage for animal feed. The pods, seeds, and leaves of the plant are edible, and the seeds are a rich source of proteins. The roots, bark, and seeds of this plant have been used in traditional medicine for ailments such as anemia and arthritis. The plant's high protein content makes it useful for animal feed and fodder as well.
Light Requirements
Vicia bequaertii De Wild. thrives in full sun to partial shade. The plant grows well under direct sunlight for several hours every day, but it can also tolerate light shade. Low-level light may lead to stunted growth, a decrease in flowering, and poor fruit formation.
Temperature Conditions
The plant grows in a wide range of temperatures, but the optimal temperature is between 15 to 24 degrees Celsius during the growing season. Temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius can cause heat stress and reduced growth, while temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius can hinder germination.
Soil Requirements
Vicia bequaertii De Wild. grows in well-drained, loamy soil types enriched with organic matter. The plant can also grow in sandy and clay soils but requires additional fertilization. The soil's pH level should be between 6.0 and 7.5 for optimal growth. The plant's roots are not very deep, so it is crucial to ensure adequate moisture levels in the upper soil layer for optimal plant growth. Additionally, the plant can withstand occasional waterlogging but not for extended periods.
Cultivation of Vicia bequaertii De Wild.
Vicia bequaertii De Wild. is a hardy plant that can withstand a wide range of conditions. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors and is a great addition to any garden or landscape.
It is best to sow the seeds directly into the soil in early spring or late fall. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about ½ inch and spaced about 4 inches apart. The soil should be well-draining and fertile.
Vicia bequaertii De Wild. prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It can grow up to 2 feet tall and will benefit from some support, such as a trellis or stakes.
Watering Needs of Vicia bequaertii De Wild.
Vicia bequaertii De Wild. requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. The plants should be watered deeply once a week, or more often if the weather is particularly dry.
It is important to water the plants at the base to avoid getting the foliage wet, as this can lead to fungal diseases. Watering in the early morning or late afternoon is ideal, as this allows the plants to absorb the water before the sun is at its strongest.
Fertilization of Vicia bequaertii De Wild.
Vicia bequaertii De Wild. will benefit from regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season. It is best to use a fertilizer that is high in phosphorus, as this will encourage flower and fruit production.
Organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, can also be used and will help to improve the soil quality. It is important not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduce flower and fruit production.
Pruning of Vicia bequaertii De Wild.
Vicia bequaertii De Wild. does not require much pruning, but it can benefit from some tidying up. Dead, damaged, or diseased foliage should be removed to prevent the spread of disease.
The plants can also be lightly pruned after flowering to encourage bushier growth and more flowers. Any old or woody stems can be removed to make room for new growth.
It is important not to prune too heavily, as this can reduce flower and fruit production.
Propagation of Vicia bequaertii De Wild.
Vicia bequaertii De Wild. is propagated through various methods. These include:
1. Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Vicia bequaertii De Wild. is through seeds. The seeds are sown in a well-drained, fertile soil mix, preferably during spring or early summer. The seeds should be sown at a depth that is twice their size. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 7-10 days. Once the seedlings have grown to a height of about 2 inches, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
2. Vegetative Propagation
Vicia bequaertii De Wild. can also be propagated using vegetative means. This includes stem cuttings and layering. Stem cuttings should be taken from mature plants, preferably in spring or early summer, and planted in a well-drained soil mix. Layering, on the other hand, involves taking a stem from a mature plant and bending it to the ground. The stem is then covered with soil, and roots will form at the contact points. Once the new plant has established roots, it can be separated from the original plant and transplanted to its permanent location.
3. Division
Division is another option for propagating Vicia bequaertii De Wild. This usually involves dividing the roots of an established plant and planting the separated sections in separate locations. This method is best done in autumn or early spring.
These methods of propagation can ensure successful reproduction of Vicia bequaertii De Wild. and can help expand your garden while preserving this beautiful plant.
Disease Management
Vicia bequaertii is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases. The most common diseases that affect this plant are:
- Anthracnose: A fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on leaves and stems, which eventually lead to defoliation and plant death. To manage this disease, ensure good sanitation practices, proper watering, and adequate air circulation.
- Verticillium wilt: A fungal disease that causes yellowing and wilting of leaves, which eventually leads to plant death. To manage this disease, remove infected plant parts and practice crop rotation.
- Root rot: A fungal disease that causes wilting and yellowing of leaves, stunted growth and eventually plant death. To manage this disease, allow the soil to dry out between watering, use well-draining soil, and avoid overwatering.
- Bacterial blight: A bacterial disease that causes yellowing and wilting of leaves, followed by brown-black stem lesions. To manage this disease, remove infected plant parts and practice crop rotation.
Pest Management
Vicia bequaertii is also susceptible to various pests that attack its leaves, stems, and roots. The most common pests that affect this plant are:
- Aphids: Soft-bodied insects that suck plant sap, causing curling and yellowing of leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a jet of water to dislodge them, introduce natural predators such as ladybugs, or use insecticidal soap.
- Mites: Tiny 8-legged pests that suck plant sap, causing yellowing and bronzing of leaves. To manage mites, increase humidity around the plant, prune off heavily infested parts, or use horticultural oil sprays.
- Nematodes: Microscopic pests that invade the roots, causing stunted growth, yellowing, and wilting of leaves. To manage nematodes, practice crop rotation, use nematode-resistant cultivars, or apply organic soil amendments such as compost and manure to improve soil health.
