Kingdom:
Phylum:
Angiosperms
Order:
Fabales
Family:
Species:
geocarpum
ID:
182702

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

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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.

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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 Fabaceae family

References

Hermann Harms (1870-1942): Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'Harms' in the authors string.
Jean C. Baudet (b.1944): Based on occurrence of standard abbreviation 'Baudet' in the authors string.