Flemingia macrophylla aka Flemingia

Taxonomy ID: 19967

Flemingia macrophylla is a deciduous shrub in the pea family, Fabaceae. Names include longleaf wurrus, false saffron, and Enoki-mame. Its native range spans southern China and the Indian subcontinent. It also extends through mainland Southeast Asia to Malaysia and Indonesia. It grows beside streams in forests that have regrown after disturbance. It also lives in drier fields. People grow it beyond its native range for farm uses.

Plants reach about 10 feet (3 metres) tall and wide. The reported height range is 3–13 feet (1–4 metres). A deep taproot supports a clump of spreading or upright stems. Soft hairs cover the ridged stems. Leaves range from oval to sword-shaped. The flowers grow in tight clusters. Bees and other insects pollinate them. The fruit takes the form of an oblong pod. Ripe pods split open and show black seeds.

This shrub suits warm, moist tropical sites. It prefers full sun but accepts light shade. It grows in sand, loam, or clay, including poor soils. Moist or wet soil suits it best. It can also cope with poor drainage and waterlogged ground. Once settled, plants can endure dry spells lasting four months. Its preferred soil pH is 5–7, though it tolerates 4–8. PFAF lists USDA zones 10–12. Growth is moderate, and root bacteria help it fix nitrogen.

Farmers plant it in hedges, on terraces, and between crop rows. Its roots help hold soil and limit erosion. It gives young plantation crops shade and shelter from wind. Cut leaves make mulch that breaks down slowly. This cover checks weeds, holds moisture, and keeps soil cooler. Other uses include green manure, fodder, fuel, and plant supports. The shrub also supplies waras dye, with purple or orange-brown shades. It can escape gardens and farms. Reports describe it as invasive in several Pacific island groups. These include the Cook Islands, Solomon Islands, and Tonga.

Reported food uses include leaves, pods, and seeds. The seeds serve as a flavouring. PFAF gives its food value a low rating. Traditional uses of leaves include treating fever and joint pain. People also use leaf preparations to wash sores and swellings. These records describe traditional practice, not proof that treatments work. Both plant references list no known hazards. That does not establish safety for every use or for pets. The supplied sources give no specific pest or disease problems.

Common names

Flemingia

More information about Flemingia

What is the region of origin of Flemingia

Flemingia’s native range is E. Asia - southern China, Indian subcontinent, Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia.

What are the water needs for Flemingia

💧 Moist to wet
Flemingia does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.

What is the sunlight requirement for Flemingia

Flemingia requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Flemingia will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Is Flemingia toxic to humans/pets?

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

More info:
Wikipedia • GBIF

Sources

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