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Description
Centrosema Sagittatum, commonly known as Arrowleaf Centrosema, is a perennial legume plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to tropical regions of Central and South America and is widely cultivated for its high-quality forage and soil improvement properties. The plant has a vigorous growth habit and can reach up to three meters in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Centrosema |
Appearance
Centrosema Sagittatum has a vine-like growth habit with slender stems that can grow up to three meters long. The leaves are compound, with three leaflets that are arrow-shaped and glossy green in color. The flowers are pink, purple or white, and are arranged in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant produces small pods that contain one or two seeds each.
Care Guide
Water: Centrosema Sagittatum requires moderate watering, with the soil being kept moist but not waterlogged. It can tolerate short periods of drought, but prolonged dryness can cause the plant to wilt and die.
Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is also recommended to add organic matter to the soil to improve its fertility.
Soil: Centrosema Sagittatum prefers well-draining, fertile soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH, from acidic to alkaline.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to grow and flower properly.
Hardiness Zones: Centrosema Sagittatum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Centrosema Sagittatum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew if grown in poorly-drained, humid conditions. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves and flowers.
Habitat
Centrosema Sagittatum is native to tropical regions of Central and South America, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including savannas, forests, and disturbed areas. The plant is widely cultivated in the tropics and subtropics for forage and soil improvement purposes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Centrosema Sagittatum a good forage crop?
A: Yes, Centrosema Sagittatum is an excellent forage crop that is highly nutritious and palatable to livestock.
Q: Can Centrosema Sagittatum be grown as a cover crop?
A: Yes, Centrosema Sagittatum is an effective cover crop that can improve soil fertility and reduce soil erosion.
Q: Does Centrosema Sagittatum require trellising?
A: Yes, Centrosema Sagittatum has a vine-like growth habit and requires trellising or other support structures to prevent it from sprawling on the ground.
Q: How often should Centrosema Sagittatum be fertilized?
A: Centrosema Sagittatum benefits from regular fertilization, with a balanced fertilizer applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Centrosema Pubescens
- Centrosema Molle
- Centrosema Virginianum
- Centrosema Plumieri
References
- USDA Plants Database: Centrosema Sagittatum
- FAO: Centrosema Sagittatum
- University of Florida IFAS Extension: Centrosema Sagittatum
- Perennial Peanut Producers Association: Centrosema Sagittatum
