Contents
Description
Canavalia Gladiata is a leguminous vine that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is also known as sword bean, sabre bean, and jack bean. The plant is native to tropical regions of the Americas, including the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. It is a fast-growing plant that can reach up to 3 meters in height. Canavalia Gladiata is an annual plant that produces beautiful, purple flowers that turn into long, flat, and sword-shaped pods that can reach up to 60 centimeters in length.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Canavalia |
| Species | Gladiata |
Appearance
Canavalia Gladiata has a beautiful appearance that makes it a popular ornamental plant. The leaves are trifoliate, with leaflets that are 5-15 centimeters long and 3-13 centimeters wide. The stems are green, slender, and twining, with brown stripes. The flowers are purple, with a white or pinkish banner, and they bloom in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruits are flat, sword-shaped pods that are 30-60 centimeters long and 2-4 centimeters wide. The seeds are large, flat, and kidney-shaped, with a white or light brown color.
Care Guide
Canavalia Gladiata is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you grow a healthy and beautiful sword bean plant:
Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization: Canavalia Gladiata is a nitrogen-fixing plant that does not require much fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 5.5-7.5 is ideal for the plant.
Sunlight: Canavalia Gladiata prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Make sure the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11. It can be grown as an annual in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Canavalia Gladiata is generally a pest and disease-resistant plant. However, it can be affected by some common pests and diseases, such as:
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
Scales: These insects also suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control scales.
Fungal diseases: Canavalia Gladiata can be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. These diseases can be prevented by keeping the plant dry and well-ventilated, and by applying a fungicide if necessary.
Habitat
Canavalia Gladiata can be found in various habitats, including forests, savannas, and coastal areas. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate drought conditions. The plant is also used as a cover crop and soil improver in agriculture.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Canavalia Gladiata edible?
A: Yes, the young pods and seeds of Canavalia Gladiata are edible and are used in traditional dishes in some regions of the world.
Q: Can Canavalia Gladiata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in large containers with well-draining soil and a trellis or support to climb on.
Q: How long does it take for Canavalia Gladiata to produce pods?
A: The plant usually produces pods within 3-4 months after planting.
Q: Can Canavalia Gladiata be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Canavalia Gladiata:
- Canavalia ensiformis (Jack Bean)
- Phaseolus vulgaris (Common Bean)
- Vigna unguiculata (Cowpea)
References
- Canavalia gladiata. (n.d.). Plants of the World Online. Kew Science. Retrieved April 23, 2021, from http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:49292-1
- Sword Bean (Canavalia gladiata). (n.d.). World Crops Database. Retrieved April 23, 2021, from https://www.worldcrops.org/crops/sword-bean
- Canavalia gladiata. (n.d.). Feedipedia. INRAE, CIRAD, AFZ and FAO. Retrieved April 23, 2021, from https://www.feedipedia.org/node/215
