Macrotyloma

Description

Macrotyloma is a plant genus that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is a group of annual or perennial plants that are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. These plants are also known as horse gram, and they are grown for their edible seeds, which are high in protein and fiber. The seeds are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including diabetes, asthma, and urinary tract infections.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Macrotyloma plants can grow up to three feet tall and have trifoliate leaves that are pale green in color. The flowers are small and white or purple in color, and they are followed by pods that contain the seeds. The seeds are small and round, with a hard outer shell that is usually brown or black in color.

Care Guide

Macrotyloma plants are easy to grow and require minimal care. They prefer well-drained soil and full sunlight, but they can also tolerate partial shade. Water the plants regularly, but be careful not to overwater them. Fertilize the plants once a month with a balanced fertilizer. Macrotyloma plants are hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Macrotyloma plants are relatively pest and disease-free, but they can be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plants can also be affected by fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and root rot. These diseases can be prevented by keeping the plants dry and avoiding overwatering.

Habitat

Macrotyloma plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. They grow in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, forests, and savannas. In the United States, Macrotyloma plants are grown as ornamental plants and for their edible seeds.

Question and Answer

Q: What are the uses of Macrotyloma seeds?
A: Macrotyloma seeds are used for food and traditional medicine.
Q: How tall can Macrotyloma plants grow?
A: Macrotyloma plants can grow up to three feet tall.
Q: What is the preferred soil type for Macrotyloma plants?
A: Macrotyloma plants prefer well-drained soil.
Q: What are the common pests that attack Macrotyloma plants?
A: Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies are common pests that attack Macrotyloma plants.

Related Plants

• Vigna
• Dolichos
• Phaseolus
• Cicer

References

• “Macrotyloma Uniflorum (Horse Gram).” Feedipedia, 2015, www.feedipedia.org/node/10324. Accessed 20 July 2021.
• Verma, S. K., et al. “Macrotyloma Uniflorum (Lam.) Verdc.: A Review on Its Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Profile.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology, vol. 249, 2020, p. 112405., doi:10.1016/j.jep.2019.112405.
• “Macrotyloma Uniflorum.” Germplasm Resources Information Network (GRIN), USDA, www.ars-grin.gov/cgi-bin/npgs/html/taxon.pl?406152. Accessed 20 July 2021.