Contents
Description
Spatholobus Suberectus, also known as Millettia Suberecta, is a perennial plant that belongs to the legume family. It is native to China and is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine due to its health benefits. The plant is a vine-like climber that can grow up to 5 meters in height. It has a woody stem and twines around other plants for support.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Spatholobus |
Appearance
The leaves of Spatholobus Suberectus are pinnate and oval-shaped, with a length of 6-10 cm and a width of 3-5 cm. They are arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers are small, pink or purple, and arranged in clusters. The fruit is a pod that is flat and oblong, with a length of 6-10 cm and a width of 1.5-2 cm. The plant has a moderate growth rate and can live up to 10 years.
Care Guide
Water: Spatholobus Suberectus prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant season.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil: Spatholobus Suberectus prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5. The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. Provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent the leaves from scorching.
Hardiness Zones: Spatholobus Suberectus is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Spatholobus Suberectus is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and stem rot. To prevent these diseases, ensure that the plant is grown in well-drained soil and has good air circulation. Insects such as aphids and spider mites may also attack the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.
Habitat
Spatholobus Suberectus is native to China and grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, hillsides, and riverbanks. The plant prefers well-drained soil and partial shade.
Questions and Answers
Q: What are the health benefits of Spatholobus Suberectus?
A: Spatholobus Suberectus has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including menstrual disorders, joint pain, and inflammation.
Q: Can Spatholobus Suberectus be grown indoors?
A: While it is possible to grow Spatholobus Suberectus indoors, it prefers partial shade and may not receive enough light indoors.
Q: How often should I fertilize Spatholobus Suberectus?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Q: Is Spatholobus Suberectus poisonous to pets?
A: There is no evidence that Spatholobus Suberectus is toxic to pets. However, it is always best to keep pets away from plants that they may be tempted to chew on.
Related Plants
- Spatholobus Parviflorus
- Spatholobus Roxburghii
- Spatholobus Sinensis
- Spatholobus Suberectus var. Longipes
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/spatholobus/suberectus-millettia-suberecta-care.htm
- https://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Chinese%20Spike.html
- https://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/duke_energy/Spatholobus_suberectus.html
