Status:
valid
Authors:
(Harms) Maréchal & Baudet
Source:
ildis
Year:
1977
Citation Micro:
Bull. Jard. Bot. Natl. Belg.47: 50 (1977)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000182031
Common Names
- Horsegram
- Kulthi Bean
- Gavar Bean
Synonyms
- Kerstingiella geocarpa Harms [valid]
- Voandzeia geocarpa (Harms) A.Chev. [valid]
Description
Macrotyloma geocarpum (also called Geocarpic horsegram, among many other common names) is a legume native to India and Sri Lanka. It is an annual plant that grows up to 1.2 m in height and has trifoliate leaves. The plant is found in dry, sandy soils in tropical and subtropical regions and is often used as a fodder crop.
Uses & Benefits
Macrotyloma geocarpum is used as a source of firewood, fodder, and for its medicinal properties.
Cultivars, Varieties & Sub-species
Macrotyloma geocarpum var. tisserantii (Pellegr.) Maréchal & Baudet
Macrotyloma geocarpum var. geocarpum
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flowers of Macrotyloma geocarpum are small, yellowish-green in color, and have five petals. The seeds are flat, oval-shaped, and dark brown in color. The seedlings have small, oval-shaped leaves and a short stem.
Cultivation and Propagation
Macrotyloma geocarpum is a fast-growing, evergreen shrub native to tropical Africa. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and prefers full sun and well-drained soil. Propagation is done through seeds, cuttings, or air layering.
Where to Find Macrotyloma geocarpum
Macrotyloma geocarpum can be found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world, including India, Africa, and South America.
Macrotyloma geocarpum FAQ
What are the common names of Macrotyloma geocarpum?
Geocarpic Horsegram
What is the native range of Macrotyloma geocarpum?
India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan
What type of soil does Macrotyloma geocarpum prefer?
Well-drained, loamy soil
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