Contents
Description
Melolobium adenodes, commonly known as the African sweet pea, is a species of plant in the Fabaceae family. It is native to southern and eastern Africa, and is commonly found in grasslands and savannas. The plant can grow up to 3 meters in height and produces pink or purple flowers that bloom from late winter to early summer. Its foliage is made up of small, oval-shaped leaflets that are arranged in a pinnate pattern.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukarya |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Tracheophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Fabales |
Family | Fabaceae |
Genus | Melolobium |
Appearance
The African sweet pea has a woody stem and can grow up to 3 meters in height. Its foliage is made up of small, oval-shaped leaflets that are arranged in a pinnate pattern. The plant produces pink or purple flowers that bloom from late winter to early summer. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the end of long, slender stems. The seed pods are slender and up to 10 cm long.
Care Guide
The African sweet pea is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun. It can survive in a range of soil types, but prefers a slightly acidic soil. Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot. Fertilize the plant in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer. The African sweet pea can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but is best suited to hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The African sweet pea is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and root rot. Spider mites and aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering and ensure that the plant has good drainage.
Habitat
The African sweet pea is native to southern and eastern Africa, and is commonly found in grasslands and savannas. It can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields. The plant is adapted to a wide range of temperatures and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the African sweet pea a perennial or an annual plant?
A: The African sweet pea is a perennial plant.
Q: What is the best soil type for the African sweet pea?
A: The African sweet pea can survive in a range of soil types, but prefers a slightly acidic soil.
Q: Can the African sweet pea tolerate drought conditions?
A: Yes, the African sweet pea is adapted to a wide range of temperatures and can tolerate drought conditions.
Q: What is the best time of year to fertilize the African sweet pea?
A: Fertilize the African sweet pea in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Melolobium burttii
- Melolobium subspicatum
- Melolobium thodei
References
- “Melolobium adenodes.” PlantZAfrica. http://pza.sanbi.org/melolobium-adenodes.
- “Melolobium adenodes (African sweetpea).” Kumbula Indigenous Nursery. https://kumbulanursery.co.za/plants/melolobium-adenodes-african-sweetpea/.
- “Melolobium adenodes.” The Plant List. http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/ild-1672.