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Description
Macroptilium gibbosifolium, also known as the woody twine or swollen leaf bushbean, is a species of flowering plant in the legume family. It is native to South America and widely distributed in Central America, the Caribbean, and southern Mexico. This plant is a perennial vine that grows up to 2 meters in length. It has woody stems with swollen nodes and pinnately compound leaves that are green and glossy. The flowers are small and purple or pink in color, growing in clusters on long stalks. The fruit is a flat, brown pod that contains several seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Macroptilium |
| Species | Macroptilium gibbosifolium |
Appearance
Macroptilium gibbosifolium is a slender vine with long, woody stems and pinnately compound leaves that are green and glossy. The leaves have 3-7 leaflets that are oblong or ovate in shape, with a pointed tip and a smooth margin. The plant produces small, pink or purple flowers that grow in clusters on long, thin stalks. The fruit is a flat, brown pod that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
To care for Macroptilium gibbosifolium, follow these guidelines: Water: Water the plant regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season. Soil: Plant Macroptilium gibbosifolium in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Sunlight: Provide the plant with full sun to partial shade. Hardiness Zones: Macroptilium gibbosifolium is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The most common pests and diseases that affect Macroptilium gibbosifolium are:Pests: Spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Control these pests by washing the plant with a strong stream of water, using insecticidal soap, or applying neem oil. Diseases: Root rot, fungal leaf spot, and powdery mildew. These diseases can be prevented by providing good drainage, avoiding overhead watering, and removing infected plant parts.
Habitat
Macroptilium gibbosifolium is native to South America and grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and disturbed areas. It is also widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Macroptilium gibbosifolium a good plant for beginners? A: Yes, this plant is relatively easy to care for and can be grown by beginners. Q: How often should I fertilize Macroptilium gibbosifolium? A: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 months during the growing season. Q: Can Macroptilium gibbosifolium be grown indoors? A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors in a bright spot with plenty of sunlight. Q: How often should I water Macroptilium gibbosifolium? A: Water the plant regularly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Macroptilium genus include:
- Macroptilium atropurpureum
- Macroptilium bracteatum
- Macroptilium lathyroides
- Macroptilium roseum
References
- “Macroptilium gibbosifolium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c297
- “Macroptilium gibbosifolium.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=MAGI24
- “Swollen-leaf Bushbean.” The University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ag120
