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Description
Cicer is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family, Fabaceae. It includes two species: Cicer arietinum, commonly known as chickpea, and Cicer reticulatum, a wild species found in southeastern Turkey. Chickpea is an important crop worldwide, grown for its edible seeds, which are high in protein and fiber. It is widely used in many cuisines, such as Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Cicer |
Appearance
Chickpea plants are annuals that grow up to 20-50 cm tall. They have pinnate leaves with 3-4 pairs of leaflets and small white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer. The seeds are round, beige or light green in color, and have a distinctive nutty flavor.
Care Guide
Water
Chickpea plants require regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer before planting and during the growing season to promote healthy growth and yield.
Soil
Chickpea plants prefer well-drained, sandy loam soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5.
Sunlight
They require full sun for optimal growth and yield.
Hardiness Zones
Chickpea plants are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chickpea plants are susceptible to various pests and diseases, such as aphids, thrips, root rot, and Fusarium wilt. Proper crop rotation, disease-resistant varieties, and regular scouting can help prevent and manage these issues.
Habitat
Chickpea plants are native to the Mediterranean region and are now widely cultivated in many parts of the world, such as India, Turkey, and Australia. They grow best in warm, dry climates with moderate rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the nutritional value of chickpeas?
A: Chickpeas are a good source of protein, fiber, iron, and other essential nutrients.
Q: Can chickpeas be grown indoors?
A: While it is possible to grow chickpeas indoors, they require full sun and may not produce as well as outdoor plants.
Q: How long does it take for chickpeas to mature?
A: Chickpeas typically take 90-120 days to mature, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
Q: Are there any health benefits of consuming chickpeas?
A: Yes, chickpeas have been linked to various health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease and improving digestion.
Related Plants
- Faba bean (Vicia faba)
- Lentil (Lens culinaris)
- Pea (Pisum sativum)
- Soybean (Glycine max)
References
- Chickpea. (n.d.). In Encyclopædia Britannica online. Retrieved from https://www.britannica.com/plant/chickpea
- Cicer. (n.d.). In The Plant List. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Leguminosae/Cicer/
- Chickpea. (n.d.). In Purdue University Center for New Crops & Plant Products. Retrieved from https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/afcm/chickpea.html
