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Description
Corchorus Aestuans, commonly known as the West African Jew’s Mallow or Wild Jute, is an annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the Malvaceae family. This plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia. It grows up to 3 meters tall and has a woody base. The leaves are alternate, simple, and ovate to lanceolate in shape. The flowers are yellow and have five petals. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous small seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Corchorus |
Appearance
Corchorus Aestuans is a tall and slender plant with green leaves that can reach up to 15 centimeters in length. The leaves are covered with fine hairs and have serrated edges. The flowers are small and yellow, and they bloom in clusters on the upper parts of the stem. The fruit is a small, round, and brown capsule that contains numerous small seeds. The plant has a woody base that can be used as a source of fiber.
Care Guide
Corchorus Aestuans is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. It requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Fertilization is recommended every two to three months using a balanced fertilizer. Corchorus Aestuans is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Corchorus Aestuans is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. The most common pests that attack this plant are aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The most common diseases that affect Corchorus Aestuans are root rot and powdery mildew. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-drained and the plant is not overcrowded.
Habitat
Corchorus Aestuans is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including open grasslands, savannas, and disturbed areas. The plant is often found growing along roadsides and in waste areas. Corchorus Aestuans is also cultivated for its fiber, which is used to make ropes, baskets, and other woven products.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Corchorus Aestuans be grown indoors?
A: Corchorus Aestuans can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate sunlight and is planted in a well-draining potting mix.
Q: How often should Corchorus Aestuans be fertilized?
A: Corchorus Aestuans should be fertilized every two to three months using a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Corchorus Aestuans drought-tolerant?
A: Corchorus Aestuans can tolerate drought but prefers regular watering.
Q: Can Corchorus Aestuans be grown as a hedge?
A: Yes, Corchorus Aestuans can be grown as a hedge, but it requires regular pruning to maintain its shape.
Related Plants
- Corchorus Capsularis
- Corchorus Olitorius
- Corchorus Trilocularis
References
- Corchorus Aestuans. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.gbif.org/species/3173149
- Corchorus Aestuans. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://plants.jstor.org/compilation/Corchorus.aestuans
- Corchorus Aestuans. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/Taxonomy/Browser/wwwtax.cgi?id=114803
