Canavalia Cathartica
Contents
Description
Canavalia Cathartica is a leguminous vine that is native to tropical America. It is also known by other common names such as Jack Bean, Butterfly Bean, and Horse Bean. This plant belongs to the Fabaceae family and is commonly used for its seeds, which are rich in protein and fiber. The seeds have been used for food, medicine, and animal feed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Canavalia |
Appearance
Canavalia Cathartica is a climbing vine that can grow up to 10 meters in length. The leaves are trifoliate, meaning they are composed of three leaflets. The leaflets are ovate and about 10-15 cm long. The flowers are purple and pea-shaped, about 3-4 cm long. The fruit is a pod that can be up to 15 cm long and contains 5-10 seeds.
Care Guide
Canavalia Cathartica is a hardy and easy-to-grow plant. Here are some tips on how to care for it:- Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is kept evenly moist. Water regularly, especially during dry spells.- Fertilization: Canavalia Cathartica does not require a lot of fertilizer. A balanced fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season.- Soil: This plant grows best in fertile, well-drained soil. A pH between 6.0 and 7.5 is ideal.- Sunlight: Canavalia Cathartica prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Like most plants, Canavalia Cathartica can be susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common ones to watch out for:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and webbing on the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. It can be controlled with a fungicide.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly drained soil. It can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-drained.
Habitat
Canavalia Cathartica is native to tropical America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and disturbed areas. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Canavalia Cathartica an annual or perennial plant?
A: Canavalia Cathartica is a perennial plant.
Q: Can I grow Canavalia Cathartica indoors?
A: It is possible to grow Canavalia Cathartica indoors if you provide it with enough light and space to climb.
Q: How long does it take for Canavalia Cathartica to produce seeds?
A: Canavalia Cathartica can start producing seeds within 2-3 months of planting.
Q: Can Canavalia Cathartica be used for animal feed?
A: Yes, the seeds of Canavalia Cathartica can be used for animal feed.
Related Plants
– Canavalia ensiformis (Jack Bean)- Canavalia gladiata (Sword Bean)- Canavalia lineata (Beaded Jack Bean)- Canavalia maritima (Bay Bean)- Canavalia rosea (Beach Bean)
References
– “Canavalia cathartica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfinderdetails.aspx?taxonid=287483- “Canavalia cathartica.” Plants of the World Online. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:494416-1- “Jack Bean.” Purdue University. https://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/duke_energy/Canavalia_ensiformis.html
