Status:
valid
Authors:
N.E.Br.
Source:
ildis
Year:
1897
Citation Micro:
Bull. Misc. Inform. Kew1897: 258 (1897)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000194630
Common Names
- Microcharis galpinii
- Galpin's microcharis
- Galpin's Microcharis
Synonyms
- Indigofera pseudoindigofera (Merxm.) J.B.Gillett [valid]
- Microcharis pseudoindigofera Merxm. [valid]
Description
Microcharis galpinii (also called Galpin's Microcharis, among many other common names) is a shrub native to the southeastern United States. It typically grows in open woodlands and is characterized by its small, purple flowers and its trifoliate leaves. It is also known for its medicinal properties, as it has been used to treat a variety of ailments.
Uses & Benefits
Microcharis galpinii is used as a forage crop for livestock, as well as a cover crop to reduce soil erosion and improve soil fertility. It is also used as a green manure crop to improve soil fertility and increase crop yields.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flowers of Microcharis galpinii are pink and bell-shaped, with five petals. The seeds are small, round, and black. The seedlings are thin, with small leaves and a single stem.
Cultivation and Propagation
Microcharis galpinii is an annual herb that grows best in full sun and well-drained soil. It is propagated by seed, and can be started indoors or directly sown in the garden. Seeds should be sown in early spring and thinned to 8-10 inches apart. The plant is drought tolerant and can tolerate some frost.
Where to Find Microcharis galpinii
Microcharis galpinii is native to South Africa.
Microcharis galpinii FAQ
What is the scientific name of Microcharis galpinii?
Microcharis galpinii
What is the common name of Microcharis galpinii?
Galpin's Microcharis
What is the family of Microcharis galpinii?
Fabaceae
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