Macroptilium atropurpureum
TAXONOMY
FamilyFabaceae
GenusMacroptilium
Zone10
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Macroptilium atropurpureum, commonly known as Siratro, is a scrambling annual or perennial plant in the Fabaceae family. It is native to seasonally dry tropical climates and is often used as a forage plant due to its high protein content. The plant has a vining habit and can grow rapidly, making it useful for erosion control and as a cover crop.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Dolichos Rhynchosioides
Purple Bush Bean
Phaseolus affinis
Phaseolus atropurpureus
Phaseolus atropurpureus var. canescens
Phaseolus atropurpureus var. pseuderythroloma
Phaseolus atropurpureus var. sericeus
Phaseolus atropurpureus var. vestitus
Phaseolus canescens
Phaseolus dysophyllus
Phaseolus schiedeanus
Phaseolus semierectus var. atropurpureus
Phaseolus vestitus
OVERVIEW
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Siratro prefers bright, direct sunlight and should be placed in a location where it can receive ample light. It thrives in warm temperatures and moderate humidity. Water the plant when the soil is almost completely dry, but avoid waterlogging. Regular pruning is necessary to manage its rapid growth.Soil
Siratro grows best in well-draining loam soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but prefers soil that is not too rich in nutrients. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient composition of 5-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season to support its rapid growth. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of flowers.Repotting
Repot Siratro when it outgrows its current container or when the soil becomes compacted. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage. Repotting is best done in the early growing season.Propagation
Siratro can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. For seed propagation, sow seeds in well-draining soil and keep them moist until germination. For cuttings, take a healthy stem cutting and plant it in moist soil, keeping it in a warm, bright location until it roots.Pruning
Regular pruning is essential to manage the plant's rapid growth. Prune back any overgrown or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth. Pruning is best done during the growing season.Toxicity
Siratro is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, as with all plants, it is best to keep it out of reach of pets and children to avoid any accidental ingestion.Additional
Siratro is a versatile plant that can be used for erosion control, as a cover crop, or as forage. It is drought-tolerant once established and can improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. Regular monitoring and maintenance will ensure healthy growth.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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