Kingdom:
Phylum:
Angiosperms
Order:
Fabales
Family:
Species:
africanum
ID:
182412

Status:
valid

Authors:
(Brenan ex R.Wilczek) Verdc.

Source:
ildis

Year:
1970

Citation Micro:
Kew Bull.24: 402 (1970)

WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000181741

Common Names

  • African Vetch
  • Horse Bean
  • Catjang Pea

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Synonyms

  • Dolichos africanus Brenan ex R.Wilczek [valid]

Description

Macrotyloma africanum (also called African horse-bean, among many other common names) is a perennial shrub native to Africa. It has small, white flowers and grows in dry, rocky areas. It is found in Angola, Botswana, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Uses & Benefits

Macrotyloma africanum is used as a food crop and forage for livestock. It is also used for soil improvement and as a medicinal plant.

Flower, Seeds and Seedlings

Macrotyloma africanum has small, yellow flowers. The seeds are small, black, and oval-shaped. The seedlings are small and have a single, oval-shaped leaf.

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Cultivation and Propagation

Macrotyloma africanum is a fast-growing, drought-tolerant legume that can be propagated from seed. It is best grown in full sun and prefers well-drained soil. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and can tolerate moderate frost. It can be propagated by direct sowing or by cuttings.

Where to Find Macrotyloma africanum

Macrotyloma africanum is native to tropical regions of Africa, including Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania.

Macrotyloma africanum FAQ

What is the common name of Macrotyloma africanum?

African Macrotyloma

What is the native range of Macrotyloma africanum?

South America

What is the growth habit of Macrotyloma africanum?

It is an evergreen shrub or small tree, typically growing up to 15 feet tall

Species in the Fabaceae family

References

Bernard Verdcourt (1925-2011): Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'Verdc.' in the authors string.
John Patrick Micklethwait Brenan (1917-1985): Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'Brenan' in the authors string.
Rudolf Wilczek (1903-1984): Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'R.Wilczek' in the authors string.