Contents
Description
Derris Fordii is a perennial plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is also known as the Chinese Derris, and it is native to Southeast Asia, particularly China. The plant is widely cultivated for its medicinal properties and ornamental value. It is a climbing vine that can grow up to 10 meters long. The roots, stems, and leaves of the Derris Fordii contain rotenone, which is used as a natural insecticide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Derris |
Appearance
The Derris Fordii has glossy, light green leaves that are pinnate and alternate. The plant produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that bloom in clusters. The fruit of the Derris Fordii is a pod that is brown and hairy. The plant’s stem is woody and can grow up to 10 centimeters in diameter. The overall appearance of the Derris Fordii plant is elegant and attractive, making it a popular ornamental plant.
Care Guide
Water
The Derris Fordii plant prefers moist soil, but it should not be watered excessively. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Fertilize the Derris Fordii plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil
The Derris Fordii plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Sunlight
The Derris Fordii plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure.
Hardiness Zones
The Derris Fordii plant can survive in hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Derris Fordii plant is susceptible to root rot, leaf spot, and spider mites. To prevent these pests and diseases, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
The Derris Fordii plant is native to Southeast Asia, particularly China. The plant grows in tropical and subtropical regions and can be found in forests, mountain slopes, and riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: What is rotenone, and why is it important?
A: Rotenone is a natural insecticide that is found in the roots, stems, and leaves of the Derris Fordii plant. It is used to control pests in agriculture and gardening.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Derris Fordii plant?
A: Fertilize the Derris Fordii plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can the Derris Fordii plant survive in cold climates?
A: No, the Derris Fordii plant cannot survive in cold climates. It can only survive in hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Q: What is the ideal pH level for the soil of the Derris Fordii plant?
A: The soil of the Derris Fordii plant should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Related Plants
- Derris Scandens
- Derris Trifoliata
- Derris Indica
- Derris Canarensis
References
- “Derris Fordii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 18 July 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287571&isprofile=0&basic=derris>.
- “Derris Fordii.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed 18 July 2021. <http://pza.sanbi.org/derris-fordii>.
- “Derris Fordii.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 18 July 2021. <http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:498171-1>.
