Contents
Description
Sphenostylis, commonly known as the African Yam Bean, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to tropical Africa and is widely cultivated for its edible tubers and seeds. The plant can grow up to 2 meters tall, with a woody stem and trifoliate leaves. The flowers are small and yellow, and the fruit is a pod that contains several seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Sphenostylis |
Appearance
Sphenostylis has a unique appearance with trifoliate leaves that are about 15-30 cm long. The plant can grow up to 2 meters tall with a woody stem. The flowers are small and yellow, and the fruit is a pod that contains several seeds. The tubers are large and can weigh up to 2 kg. They have a rough, brown skin and a white flesh.
Care Guide
Sphenostylis is a hardy plant that requires little maintenance. Here are some care tips for growing Sphenostylis:
Water: Sphenostylis requires regular watering, especially during dry spells. However, the plant can tolerate drought conditions.
Fertilization: Sphenostylis does not require much fertilizer. However, adding organic matter to the soil can improve the plant’s growth.
Soil: Sphenostylis prefers well-drained, fertile soil. The plant can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Sunlight: Sphenostylis prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Sphenostylis can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sphenostylis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases if the soil is too wet. Pests such as aphids, thrips, and spider mites can occasionally infest the plant.
Habitat
Sphenostylis is native to tropical Africa and is widely cultivated in West and Central Africa. The plant can grow in a range of environments, including savannas, forests, and grasslands.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Sphenostylis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Sphenostylis can be grown in containers. However, the container should be large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How long does it take for Sphenostylis to produce tubers?
A: Sphenostylis tubers can be harvested 6-9 months after planting.
Q: Is Sphenostylis a nitrogen-fixing plant?
A: Yes, Sphenostylis is a nitrogen-fixing plant. It can improve the soil’s fertility by converting atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form.
Q: Can Sphenostylis be propagated by seeds?
A: Yes, Sphenostylis can be propagated by seeds. However, it is recommended to propagate the plant by dividing the tubers.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Sphenostylis:
- Vigna unguiculata (Cowpea)
- Vigna subterranea (Bambara Groundnut)
- Vigna vexillata (Wild Cowpea)
- Lablab purpureus (Hyacinth Bean)
References
- “Sphenostylis stenocarpa” – PlantZAfrica.com
- “Sphenostylis stenocarpa (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Harms” – The Plant List
- “Sphenostylis stenocarpa” – PROTA4U.org
- “Sphenostylis stenocarpa (Hochst. ex A. Rich.) Harms” – GBIF.org
