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
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.
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 Macrotyloma genus
Macrotyloma africanum,
Macrotyloma axillare,
Macrotyloma bieense,
Macrotyloma biflorum,
Macrotyloma brevicaule,
Macrotyloma coddii,
Macrotyloma daltonii,
Macrotyloma decipiens,
Macrotyloma densiflorum,
Macrotyloma dewildemanianum,
Macrotyloma ellipticum,
Macrotyloma fimbriatum,
Macrotyloma geocarpum,
Macrotyloma hockii,
Macrotyloma maranguense,
Macrotyloma oliganthum,
Macrotyloma prostratum,
Macrotyloma rupestre,
Macrotyloma schweinfurthii,
Macrotyloma stenophyllum,
Macrotyloma stipulosum,
Macrotyloma tenuiflorum,
Macrotyloma uniflorum,
Macrotyloma ciliatum,
Species in the Fabaceae family