Contents
Description
Psophocarpus is a genus of flowering plants in the Fabaceae family. It is native to tropical Africa and Asia, but it is also cultivated in other parts of the world. This genus is known for its edible beans and leaves. The beans are rich in protein and are used in various dishes, while the leaves are cooked as a vegetable in some regions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Psophocarpus |
Appearance
Psophocarpus has twining stems that can reach up to 3 meters in length. The leaves are compound, with three leaflets that are ovate or elliptic in shape, and can grow up to 15 cm long. The flowers are typically pea-like, with a pink or purple color, and they bloom in clusters. The fruits are pods that are flat and curved, and can grow up to 25 cm long. The seeds are small and round, and are usually black or brown in color.
Care Guide
Psophocarpus is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: Psophocarpus prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight.
- Hardiness Zones: Psophocarpus is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Psophocarpus is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. To prevent these pests, keep the plant clean and healthy, and use insecticidal soap if necessary. Root rot can also be a problem if the plant is overwatered.
Habitat
Psophocarpus is native to tropical Africa and Asia, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and wetlands. It prefers warm temperatures and high humidity, and it can grow in both acidic and alkaline soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Psophocarpus be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Psophocarpus can be grown indoors in a well-lit area, but it may not produce as much fruit as it would outdoors.
Q: When is the best time to prune Psophocarpus?
A: Prune Psophocarpus in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Q: How often should Psophocarpus be fertilized?
A: Psophocarpus should be fertilized every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Psophocarpus be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Psophocarpus can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Lablab purpureus
- Vigna unguiculata
- Cajanus cajan
- Glycine max
References
- “Psophocarpus tetragonolobus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 11, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b544.
- “Psophocarpus.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed August 11, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/psophocarpus.
- “Winged Bean (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus).” Smart Gardener. Accessed August 11, 2021. https://www.smartgardener.com/plants/2779-winged-bean-psophocarpus-tetragonolobus/overview.
