Derris Trifoliata
Contents
Description
Derris Trifoliata is a plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is also known as the Eastern Derris, Indian Root, and Three-Leafed Derris. The plant is native to Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. The plant is a woody vine that can grow up to 20 meters long. The leaves are trifoliate, which means they have three leaflets. The flowers are white or yellowish and grow in clusters. The fruit is a pod that contains seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Derris |
Appearance
Derris Trifoliata has a woody stem that can grow up to 20 meters long. The leaves are trifoliate, which means they have three leaflets. The leaflets are elliptical in shape and have a glossy surface. The flowers are white or yellowish and grow in clusters. The fruit is a pod that contains seeds. The plant has a rapid growth rate and can quickly cover large areas.
Care Guide
To care for Derris Trifoliata, you should provide it with enough water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and know its hardiness zones. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It tolerates a wide range of pH levels, from acidic to alkaline. The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. It is also important to fertilize the plant regularly to promote healthy growth. The plant requires full sunlight to grow well. It is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Derris Trifoliata is susceptible to various pests and diseases. Some of the common pests include spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to various diseases, including root rot and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by providing proper care, including well-draining soil, moderate watering, and adequate sunlight.
Habitat
Derris Trifoliata is native to Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. The plant grows in tropical rainforests, where it climbs up trees and shrubs to reach the sunlight. The plant grows well in warm, humid environments with rich, well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Derris Trifoliata toxic?
A: Yes, the plant contains rotenone, which is a toxic substance. The plant has been used as a natural insecticide, but it should be used with caution.
Q: Can Derris Trifoliata be grown indoors?
A: It is not recommended to grow Derris Trifoliata indoors as it requires full sunlight and can quickly outgrow small spaces.
Q: Can Derris Trifoliata be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Derris Trifoliata can be propagated from stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature plants and should be planted in well-draining soil.
Q: Does Derris Trifoliata attract any beneficial insects?
A: Yes, the plant attracts various beneficial insects, including bees and butterflies, which help to pollinate the flowers.
Related Plants
- Derris Elegans
- Derris Indica
- Derris Heterophylla
- Derris Scandens
References
- “Derris Trifoliata.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science, n.d. Web. 15 Oct. 2021.
- “Derris Trifoliata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 15 Oct. 2021.
- “Derris Trifoliata.” Floridata. Floridata, n.d. Web. 15 Oct. 2021.
