Status:
valid
Authors:
R.Wilczek
Source:
ildis
Year:
1954
Citation Micro:
Bull. Jard. Bot. État Bruxelles24: 425 (1954)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000180081
Common Names
- Silky Dolichos
- Silky Lablab
- Silky Bean
Description
Dolichos sericophyllus (also called 'silky-leaved dolichos', among many other common names) is an annual plant native to South America. It has a woody stem and small, trifoliate leaves. It is found in dry, open areas, such as grasslands, savannas, and scrublands.
Uses & Benefits
Dolichos sericophyllus is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a source of food for livestock. It is also used as a medicinal plant to treat various ailments such as fever, headache, and stomach pain.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Dolichos sericophyllus has small white flowers with five petals and a long calyx. Its seeds are small, black and glossy. The seedlings have two to three pairs of leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Dolichos sericophyllus is a perennial shrub that grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. It can be propagated from seed or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in spring or early summer in a sandy soil mix. Cuttings should be taken from semi-ripe wood in late summer or early autumn and planted in a well-drained soil mix.
Where to Find Dolichos sericophyllus
Dolichos sericophyllus can be found in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australia.
Dolichos sericophyllus FAQ
What is the natural habitat of Dolichos sericophyllus?
Dolichos sericophyllus is native to tropical Africa and Madagascar.
What are the common uses of Dolichos sericophyllus?
Dolichos sericophyllus is used for medicinal purposes, as a food source, and as a source of fiber.
What is the growth rate of Dolichos sericophyllus?
Dolichos sericophyllus has a moderate growth rate.
Species in the Dolichos genus
Dolichos aciphyllus,
Dolichos angustissimus,
Dolichos antunesii,
Dolichos argyros,
Dolichos axilliflorus,
Dolichos bianoensis,
Dolichos cardiophyllus,
Dolichos complanatus,
Dolichos compressus,
Dolichos corymbosus,
Dolichos decumbens,
Dolichos dinklagei,
Dolichos dongaluta,
Dolichos elatus,
Dolichos falciformis,
Dolichos filifoliolus,
Dolichos glabratus,
Dolichos glabrescens,
Dolichos grandistipulatus,
Dolichos gululu,
Dolichos hastiformis,
Dolichos hastaeformis,
Dolichos homblei,
Dolichos ichthyophone,
Dolichos junodii,
Dolichos karaviaensis,
Dolichos katali,
Dolichos kilimandscharicus,
Dolichos linearifolius,
Dolichos linearis,
Dolichos longipes,
Dolichos lualabensis,
Dolichos luticola,
Dolichos magnificus,
Dolichos mendoncae,
Dolichos nimbaensis,
Dolichos oliveri,
Dolichos peglerae,
Dolichos petiolatus,
Dolichos pratensis,
Dolichos pseudocajanus,
Dolichos pseudocomplanatus,
Dolichos quarrei,
Dolichos reptans,
Dolichos schweinfurthii,
Dolichos sericeus,
Dolichos sericophyllus,
Dolichos serpens,
Dolichos simplicifolius,
Dolichos splendens,
Species in the Fabaceae family