Overview
Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. is a flowering plant from the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to Western Africa and is commonly found in countries like Nigeria, Benin, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, and Ghana. It is a hardy plant that is capable of growing in various soil conditions and can withstand harsh weather conditions.
Common Names
The plant Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. is known by various common names depending on the region it is grown in. Some of the common names include:
- Akara plant
- Black-eyed pea plant
- Kwa-kwa
- Ewa in Yoruba language
- Natural Viagra
Appearance
Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. is a climbing or trailing plant that can grow up to 3 meters in length. It has hairy stems and leaves that are trifoliate or three-leafed, and the leaves are alternate, measuring up to 17 cm long. The flowers are small, pink-purple, or white, and are arranged in clusters of two to six flowers. The fruit is a pod that is 5-7 cm long, covered in thick hairs, and contains up to 10 seeds. The seeds of the Vigna frutescens plant are black, brown, or white and are similar in shape and size to the common bean.
Uses
The Vigna frutescens plant has several uses, both medicinal and culinary. The seeds of the plant are commonly used in West African cuisine to make dishes like Akara, a popular Nigerian breakfast food, and Moi Moi, a steamed bean pudding. The plant is believed to have aphrodisiac properties, and the seeds are often referred to as "natural Viagra" as they are said to enhance libido and improve sexual performance. Additionally, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including high blood pressure and diabetes.
Growth Conditions of Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc.
Light Requirements: Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade, but prolonged shade can lead to stunted growth and reduced yield.
Temperature Requirements: Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. is a warm-season plant that thrives in temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 35°C (95°F). It cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures and will die if exposed to it.
Soil Requirements: Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. grows best in well-draining soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-draining.
Water Requirements: Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. However, it cannot tolerate waterlogged soils and needs adequate drainage to prevent root rot.
Fertilizer Requirements: Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. is a legume that can fix nitrogen from the air through rhizobium bacteria. Therefore, it requires minimal fertilization. However, a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can help boost growth and yield.
Other Factors: Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. is a climbing plant that requires support for optimal growth. It can be trained to climb on trellises, poles, or other support structures. Also, regular pruning can help promote bushier growth and prevent overgrowth.
Cultivation Methods
Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. can be grown in a range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils with good drainage. The plant grows well in both full sun and partial shade. It is a fast-growing vine that can reach up to 10 feet in height, so it is essential to provide enough space. The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Watering Needs
Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. has moderate water needs and requires regular watering during the growing season. The plant should be watered deeply, but the soil should be allowed to dry out between watering to prevent root rot. In the winter months, the plant should be watered less frequently to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilization
Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. is a fast-growing plant that requires regular fertilization for optimal growth. A balanced fertilizer should be applied every four to six weeks during the growing season. Avoid overfertilization, which can lead to excessive vegetative growth and poor flowering.
Pruning
Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. requires minimal pruning, but it is recommended to prune the plant in the late winter or early spring to encourage new growth and maintain the shape of the plant. The plant can be lightly trimmed to remove any damaged or diseased branches. Additionally, deadheading spent flowers can encourage the plant to produce more flowers.
Propagation of Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc.
Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family Fabaceae. Propagation of this plant can be done through several methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. can be collected directly from the plant and used for propagation. The seeds should be planted in well-draining soil in pots or directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed. It is recommended to scarify the seeds before planting to improve germination rates by breaking the tough seed coat which allows water to penetrate the seed.
Cutting Propagation
Softwood cuttings of Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. can be taken during the spring or early summer months. The cuttings should be 4 to 6 inches long and should have at least one node. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting in well-draining soil. Care should be taken to keep the soil moist and avoid direct sunlight until the cuttings have rooted and established themselves.
Division Propagation
Division propagation of Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. involves dividing the plant into two or more sections. This method is best done during the spring or early summer months. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the root ball into sections, each with a healthy shoot system. Replant each section in a well-draining soil in a new location and keep the soil moist until the plant has become established.
Overall, Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. is a relatively easy plant to propagate, and gardeners can choose the appropriate method depending on their preference and the availability of resources.
Disease and Pest Management for Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc.
Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc., commonly known as the creeping vigna, is a plant that belongs to the legume family. Like all other plants, the creeping vigna is susceptible to many diseases and pests that can cause significant damage if not properly managed. Here, we will discuss the common diseases and pests that plague the creeping vigna and ways to manage them to keep the plant healthy and thriving.
Common Diseases
One of the most prevalent diseases that can affect the creeping vigna is anthracnose. This fungal disease usually attacks the leaves, causing them to develop brown, circular spots with red or purple borders. Anthracnose can also affect the stems, causing them to wilt, rot, and eventually die. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant parts immediately and spray with a fungicide.
Another disease that plagues the creeping vigna is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that produces a white or gray powdery substance on leaves and stems. It can cause leaves to yellow, curl, and eventually fall off. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy infected plant parts immediately and spray with a fungicide.
Common Pests
Aphids are one of the most common pests that can attack the creeping vigna. These small, pear-shaped insects suck the sap from plant leaves, causing them to yellow and curl. They also secrete a sticky substance called honeydew that attracts ants and promotes the growth of fungal diseases. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them or use insecticidal soap.
Spider mites are another common pest that can plague the creeping vigna. These tiny, sap-sucking pests can cause leaves to turn yellow and develop a stippled appearance. The leaves may also appear to have a spider web-like covering. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap.
Conclusion
Vigna frutescens A.Rich. subsp. incana (Taub.) Verdc. is a plant that is vulnerable to many diseases and pests that can devastate its foliage and reduce its yield. To keep the plant healthy and thriving, it is essential to identify and manage pests and diseases quickly. Regular monitoring and prompt action will help keep the creeping vigna healthy and productive.
