Status:
valid
Authors:
(J.B.Gillett) Schrire
Source:
ildis
Year:
1992
Citation Micro:
Bothalia22: 166 (1992)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000194858
Common Names
- Microcharis contorta
- Contorta
- Contorta Plant
Synonyms
- Indigofera contorta (J.B.Gillett) Schrire [unknown]
- Indigofera contorta J.B.Gillett [valid]
Description
Microcharis contorta (also called Twisted Microcharis, among many other common names) is an annual herb native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. It has a slender, erect stem with alternate, compound leaves and small, white, pea-like flowers.
Uses & Benefits
Microcharis contorta is used as a source of timber, fuel, and for medicinal purposes. It is also used as a shade tree and for soil conservation.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Microcharis contorta is a small, yellow, pea-like flower with five petals. The seed is a small, dark brown, bean-like seed. The seedlings are small, with two to four leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Microcharis contorta is an annual herb that is native to South Africa. It is easy to propagate from seed. Sow the seeds in a well-drained soil mix in a sunny location and keep the soil moist. Once the seedlings have emerged, thin them out to the desired spacing. Water regularly and fertilize every few weeks with a balanced fertilizer.
Where to Find Microcharis contorta
Microcharis contorta can be found in the temperate forests of Europe.
Microcharis contorta FAQ
What is the scientific name of Microcharis contorta?
Microcharis contorta
What are the common names of Microcharis contorta?
Twisted Microcharis
What is the natural habitat of Microcharis contorta?
Tropical and subtropical regions of Africa
Species in the Microcharis genus
Microcharis ammophila,
Microcharis angolensis,
Microcharis ephemera,
Microcharis asparagoides,
Microcharis brevistaminea,
Microcharis buchneri,
Microcharis garissaensis,
Microcharis gyrata,
Microcharis tenella,
Microcharis latifolia,
Microcharis longicalyx,
Microcharis medicaginea,
Microcharis microcharoides,
Microcharis nematophylla,
Microcharis remotiflora,
Microcharis welwitschii,
Microcharis sessilis,
Microcharis spathulata,
Microcharis stipulosa,
Microcharis tenuirostris,
Microcharis tisserantii,
Microcharis tritoides,
Microcharis wajirensis,
Microcharis galpinii,
Microcharis annua,
Microcharis butayei,
Microcharis cana,
Microcharis contorta,
Microcharis cufodontii,
Microcharis disjuncta,
Microcharis karinensis,
Microcharis kucharii,
Microcharis praetermissa,
Microcharis aphylla,
Microcharis phyllogramme,
Microcharis omissa,
Species in the Fabaceae family