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Description
Centrosema is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the legume family, Fabaceae. The plants in this genus are native to tropical regions of the Americas and are commonly found in grasslands, savannas, and forests. There are about 30 species of Centrosema, with the most commonly cultivated species being Centrosema pubescens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Centrosema |
Appearance
Centrosema plants are perennial and herbaceous and can grow up to 2 meters in height. The leaves are trifoliate and have a lanceolate shape, with a length of 5-12 cm and a width of 2-6 cm. The flowers are borne in clusters and have a tubular shape, with a length of 3-4 cm and a width of 1.5 cm. The flowers are usually purple in color, but can also be pink, white, or blue.
Care Guide
Centrosema plants prefer well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. They require regular watering, especially during dry periods, and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. The plants should be grown in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures down to 25°F. Centrosema is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Centrosema plants are relatively pest and disease-free when grown in ideal conditions. However, they can be susceptible to root rot, stem rot, and fungal leaf spots if overwatered or grown in poorly drained soils. Pests such as aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can also infest the plants, causing damage to the leaves and flowers.
Habitat
Centrosema plants are native to tropical regions of the Americas, including South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. They are commonly found in grasslands, savannas, and forests, where they grow as a ground cover or climbing vine.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Centrosema be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Centrosema can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Do Centrosema plants attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Centrosema plants are known to attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Centrosema plant?
A: Centrosema plants should be fertilized every 4-6 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Centrosema?
A: Centrosema is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and can tolerate temperatures down to 25°F.
Related Plants
- Phaseolus
- Vicia
- Pisum
- Cicer
- Glycine
References
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CEPU
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/centrosema/centrosema-vine-care.htm
- https://www.britannica.com/plant/Centrosema
