Overview:
Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. waterlotii (Maire) Dobignard & Jacquemoud & D. Jordan, commonly known as Waterlot's bean-caper, is a plant species native to Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia in North Africa. It is a perennial herbaceous shrub that belongs to the Zygophyllaceae family.
Appearance:
Waterlot's bean-caper is a small, densely branched shrub that typically grows up to 30cm tall. The leaves of this plant are compound, green to grayish-green in color and measure about 2-3 mm long. The pea-shaped flowers of this plant are small and yellowish and bloom mainly in the spring and summer months. The fruits are small pods (1-2 cm) with many seeds and a brownish color when mature.
Uses:
In traditional medicine, Waterlot's bean-caper has been used to treat various ailments such as fever, liver diseases, and stomach disorders due to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Furthermore, the mature seeds of this plant can also be consumed as food following boiling them to remove the bitterness. They are high in protein, fiber, and minerals and are often used to make a thick soup.
Light Conditions
Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. waterlotii (Maire) Dobignard & Jacquemoud & D.Jordan requires a lot of sunlight to grow optimally. It prefers full sun exposure and should be planted in areas with no shade. The plant uses sunlight to conduct photosynthesis, which is important in the production of food for the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can withstand extreme heat conditions and can also survive cold temperatures. However, the plant needs to be watered regularly during very hot temperatures to prevent it from drying up. It is also sensitive to frost and may die if exposed to extremely low temperatures for long periods. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 15°C to 25°C.
Soil Requirements
Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. waterlotii (Maire) Dobignard & Jacquemoud & D.Jordan thrives in well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and provide good aeration to the plant roots. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil and requires watering once a week during the growing season. It also needs to be fertilized regularly to enhance its growth and development.
Cultivation methods
Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. waterlotii (Maire) Dobignard & Jacquemoud & D.Jordan, commonly known as Waterlot's bean caper, is a drought-resistant plant perfect for xeriscaping. It thrives in dry and rocky soil, making it perfect for desert gardens and landscapes. The plant prefers full sun but can also grow well in partial shade.
Watering needs
Being a desert plant, Waterlot's bean caper is highly drought-tolerant. It is adapted to dry environments and can survive for long periods without water. It is best to water it lightly to establish roots, and then let the soil dry out before watering again. Watering frequency should also be reduced during the winter months.
Fertilization
Waterlot's bean caper is not a heavy feeder, and excessive fertilization can cause harm to the plant. Therefore, it is best to avoid applying fertilizers unless necessary. In case of nutrient deficiencies, slow-release fertilizers can be applied once a year during the growing season.
Pruning
Waterlot's bean caper is a low-maintenance plant and requires very minimal pruning. However, it is necessary to prune any dead, diseased or broken branches to promote healthy growth and development. Branches can be pruned to maintain the desired shape and size of the plant. Juvenile growth should be pruned when the plant is young to maintain a compact shape, and the plant can be pruned during the fall and spring seasons.
Propagation of Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. waterlotii (Maire) Dobignard & Jacquemoud & D.Jordan
Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. waterlotii (Maire) Dobignard & Jacquemoud & D.Jordan, commonly known as waterlot's bean-caper, is a hardy plant that can be propagated by various methods.
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagation for Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. waterlotii is through seeds. The seeds can be sown in well-draining soil during the spring season. Ensure that the soil remains moist but not overly saturated. The seeds will germinate in about two to three weeks.
Cuttings propagation
Another method of propagating Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. waterlotii is through cuttings. Take cuttings from healthy plants during the spring season, ensuring that each cutting has at least two nodes. Dip the cut ends in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil that is kept moist. The cuttings will develop roots in about four to six weeks.
Layering propagation
Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. waterlotii can also be propagated by layering. During the spring season, select a healthy branch that is low to the ground and gently scrape the bark off a section of the stem. Apply rooting hormone to the scraped section and bury it in soil, keeping the section above ground. Keep the soil moist and roots will form in about eight to ten weeks. Once roots have formed, cut the stem from the parent plant and plant the new plant in another location.
Overall, Zygophyllum gaetulum Emb. & Maire subsp. waterlotii can be easily propagated by seeds, cuttings, or layering. By using these methods, gardeners can quickly and easily propagate this plant and create beautiful, thriving gardens.
Disease Management
Zygophyllum gaetulum subsp. waterlotii is prone to several diseases that can affect its growth, reproduction, and overall health. Some of the common diseases of the plant include:
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease is caused by several fungal pathogens that attack the leaves of the plant, causing small to large circular or irregular spots that may be dark brown or black. To manage fungal leaf spot, it is recommended to remove the affected leaves and dispose of them properly. Applying a fungicide can also help control the spread of the disease.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by waterlogged soils, which lead to the death of roots. Symptoms of root rot include wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth. To prevent root rot in Z. gaetulum subsp. waterlotii, it is important to plant the species in well-drained soils. Overwatering the plant should also be avoided.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cover the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant with a white powdery substance. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering, manage the humidity of the plant's environment, and apply a fungicide as needed.
Pest Management
Aside from diseases, pests can also attack Zygophyllum gaetulum subsp. waterlotii. Some of the pests that the plant is susceptible to include:
- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects can cause stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of leaves in the plant. To manage aphids, it is recommended to blast the affected areas with water or apply insecticidal soap spray.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and curling of leaves, as well as the formation of webbing on leaves and stems. To treat a spider mite infestation, apply a miticide or insecticidal soap spray.
- Thrips: These slender insects can cause damage to the flowers and buds of the plant. Infested flowers may appear deformed or discolored. To control thrips, it is recommended to apply insecticidal soap spray or predatory insects that feed on thrips.
- Scale insects: These small insects are usually found on the undersides of the plant's leaves. They can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, remove them manually by scraping them off the plant or apply a horticultural oil spray.
