Contents
Description
Stylosanthes Hamata, also known as the pencil flower or birdsville stylo, is a legume plant that is native to tropical regions in South America. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 1 meter tall and has a lifespan of 2-5 years. This plant is known for its ability to improve soil fertility as it is able to fix atmospheric nitrogen and convert it into a form that can be used by other plants. Additionally, it provides forage for livestock and is often used in grazing systems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Stylosanthes |
Appearance
Stylosanthes Hamata has small, yellow flowers that are shaped like pencils and bloom throughout the year. Its leaves are trifoliate and have an oval shape, with a length of 5-12 cm and a width of 3-7 cm. The stem is green and hairy, and the plant has a deep root system that can reach up to 2 meters in depth. Its seeds are small, brown, and are produced in small pods that are curled and twisted.
Care Guide
Stylosanthes Hamata requires moderate watering and can tolerate both drought and occasional flooding. It thrives in well-draining soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It benefits from fertilization with phosphorus and potassium, but excessive nitrogen fertilization should be avoided as it can reduce the plant’s ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures between 10-35°C. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stylosanthes Hamata is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if soil drainage is poor. It may also be attacked by nematodes or leafhoppers, which can cause stunting of the plant and reduce its forage quality.
Habitat
Stylosanthes Hamata is native to tropical regions in South America, but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Australia, Asia, and Africa. It grows in a variety of soils, but prefers well-draining soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It is commonly found in pastures and grazing systems, and is often used in agroforestry systems.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the benefit of using Stylosanthes Hamata in grazing systems?
A: Stylosanthes Hamata provides forage for livestock and is able to fix atmospheric nitrogen, which can improve soil fertility and reduce the need for nitrogen fertilization.
Q: What type of soil does Stylosanthes Hamata prefer?
A: Stylosanthes Hamata prefers well-draining soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Q: Is Stylosanthes Hamata hardy in cold climates?
A: No, Stylosanthes Hamata is not hardy in cold climates and is only suitable for USDA zones 9-11.
Q: Can Stylosanthes Hamata tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Stylosanthes Hamata can tolerate moderate drought, but excessive drought can affect its growth and forage quality.
Related Plants
- Stylosanthes Guianensis
- Stylosanthes Scabra
- Stylosanthes Humilis
- Stylosanthes Seabrana
References
- Stylosanthes Hamata (Birdsville Stylo). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.tropicalforages.info/key/Forages/Media/Html/Stylosanthes_hamata.htm
- Stylosanthes Hamata. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.agrifarming.in/stylosanthes-hamata
- Stylosanthes Hamata. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.feedipedia.org/node/151
