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Description
Tephrosia Macropoda is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to East Africa, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania, and is commonly known as the Swahili Wisteria. The plant has a shrub-like habit and grows up to 2 meters in height. It produces beautiful pinkish-purple flowers in clusters that bloom from July to September. The plant also produces flat, elongated seed pods that are covered with fine hairs.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Tephrosia |
| Species | Macropoda |
Appearance
The Tephrosia Macropoda has a shrub-like habit and can grow up to 2 meters in height. Its leaves are pinnately compound, with 9-15 leaflets that are green in color. The plant produces beautiful pinkish-purple flowers in clusters that bloom from July to September. The flowers have a distinctive fragrance and are attractive to bees and butterflies. The plant also produces flat, elongated seed pods that are covered with fine hairs.
Care Guide
Water: Tephrosia Macropoda prefers moderate watering. Water the plant when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Stop fertilizing during the winter months.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 6.0-7.0 is ideal.
Sunlight: Tephrosia Macropoda prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. Place the plant in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: Tephrosia Macropoda is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Tephrosia Macropoda is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of infestation and treat as necessary. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
The Tephrosia Macropoda is native to East Africa, particularly in Kenya and Tanzania. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and open woodlands. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Tephrosia Macropoda poisonous?
A: No, Tephrosia Macropoda is not poisonous. However, the plant is not edible and should not be consumed.
Q: Can Tephrosia Macropoda be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Tephrosia Macropoda can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate sunlight and is placed in a well-draining potting mix.
Q: Can Tephrosia Macropoda tolerate drought?
A: No, Tephrosia Macropoda prefers moderate watering and cannot tolerate prolonged drought.
Q: Can Tephrosia Macropoda be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Tephrosia Macropoda can be propagated from stem cuttings taken during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Tephrosia Apollinea
- Tephrosia Candida
- Tephrosia Cinerascens
- Tephrosia Crassifolia
- Tephrosia Elegans
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/tephrosia/growing-tephrosia-plants.htm
- https://www.sarahraven.com/articles/how_to_grow_tephrosia_macropoda.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/tephrosia-macropoda
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/15368/tephrosia-macropoda/details
