Millettia dielsiana

Harms. ex Diels.

Fabaceae Edible: Seed

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University of Vermont

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Miami University Turrell Herbarium - Vascular Plants (MU-)

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Description

Millettia dielsiana is a deciduous Shrub growing to 5 m (16ft 5in). It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from September to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Uses

Seed. No more details are given.

Medicinal Uses

Emmenagogue Miscellany. The stem bark is used in the treatment of anaemia and rheumatoid muscular aches. The root and stem are decocted in water and used in the treatment of anaemia, dysmenorrhoea, infantile paralysis, myalgia, numbness of the limbs, rheumatism and wet dreams.

Distribution

E. Asia - China.

Where It Grows

TEMPERATE ASIA: China (south) TROPICAL ASIA: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India (northeast), Nepal, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand (north), Vietnam (north)

Cultivation

We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in Britain. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. Succeeds in full sun in a fertile moisture-retentive but well-drained soil. This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby.

Propagation

Pre-soak the seed for 12 hours in warm water and sow in a greenhouse in spring. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Layering in spring. Cuttings of half-ripe wood with the leaves removed, July/August in moist sand in a frame.