Semi-aquatic perennial subshrub in Fabaceae family reaching 2-3 meters tall. Dormant seeds with hard seed coat require high soil moisture or flooded conditions (but not exceeding 2cm standing water) for germination. Prolific seeding weed in rice paddies across tropical Asia.
Before sowing
Hard seed coat requires pre-treatment; dehulled seed shows germination up to 90-95%; intact hulled seed shows only 5-10% germination; scarification via mechanical or thermal methods highly effective
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Use dehulled seed for faster, higher germination (90-95%). Plant at pH 6.4-7.0. Avoid standing water deeper than 2cm which inhibits seedling establishment. Seed survives about 6 months in soil seed bank. Native to wetland margins, lagoons, swamps, rice paddies. Nitrogen-fixing legume valuable as green manure.
Sources: PlantNet RICEWEEDS, Tropical Plants Database, Portal WIKTROP, Wikipedia, Grokipedia, University of Florida IFAS
