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Description
Canavalia Sericea, commonly known as Jack Bean or Wonder Bean, is a legume plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is a tropical plant that is native to Central and South America. The plant is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a cover crop to enrich soil fertility.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Canavalia |
Appearance
The Canavalia Sericea plant has a vine-like growth habit that can climb up to 10-15 feet tall. It has large green leaves that are divided into three leaflets, each measuring up to 6 inches long. The plant produces showy white or purple flowers that are about 1 inch in size. The flowers are followed by long, slender pods that can grow up to 15 inches in length. The pods contain large, flat, and kidney-shaped seeds that are about 0.5-1 inch in size.
Care Guide
Water: The Canavalia Sericea plant prefers well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist. Water the plant deeply once a week, especially during the hot summer months.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels, from acidic to alkaline.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun exposure, but it can also grow in partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Canavalia Sericea is hardy in USDA Zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Canavalia Sericea is generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. It may also attract aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Keep an eye out for any signs of infestation and treat promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Canavalia Sericea is native to Central and South America, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and disturbed areas. It is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. The plant is grown as a cover crop to enrich soil fertility and for its ornamental value in gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Canavalia Sericea edible?
A: Yes, the seeds of Canavalia Sericea are edible and are commonly used as a food source in some parts of the world.
Q: Can Canavalia Sericea be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Canavalia Sericea can be grown in a container, but it will require a large container and proper support for the vine-like growth habit.
Q: How often should I fertilize Canavalia Sericea?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: Can Canavalia Sericea tolerate drought?
A: No, Canavalia Sericea prefers consistently moist soil and cannot tolerate drought.
Related Plants
- Canavalia Ensiformis
- Canavalia Gladiata
- Canavalia Maritima
- Canavalia Pubescens
References
- “Canavalia sericea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 12 May 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c330>.
- “Canavalia sericea.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 12 May 2021. <http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:48970-2>.
- “Jack Bean.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed 12 May 2021. <http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mv130>.
