Shaw creeping vigna

Shaw creeping vigna

Shaw creeping vigna
(High-resolution
image available
)

NOTE: The information in this Agnote must be read in conjunction with Introduction to selecting and using pastures in NSW, which covers information on areas of adaptation, sources of variability, species mixtures, and important issues related to animal health and the conservation of native vegetation.
Pasture type and usePerennial summer-growing subtropical legume. Grazing, agroforestry.
Area of adaptationSubtropical North Coast
Min. average annual rainfall1100 mm
Advantages
  • Persistent under heavy grazing.
  • Shade-tolerant.
  • High quality subtropical legume with high proportion of leaf to stem.
  • Ability to spread under grazing.
  • Capable of ascending tall tropical grasses.
  • Growing points relatively protected from being grazed.
Disadvantages
  • Susceptibility to drought.
  • Sensitive to frost.
  • Unsuitable to sustained flooding.
Soil requirementsVersatile soil types. Warm sites with moist but well-drained soils.
Varietiescv. Shaw
Sowing rates: 
  • as only species - 2 kg is recommended, but, due to high seed costs, 0.5–1 kg/ha is a compromise.
  • in mixtures - 0.25–0.5 kg/ha. Scarify seed to 30% hard seed.
Sowing timeSpring
Companion speciesUsually sown alone with grasses. Best grown with sward-forming grasses.
InoculationGroup I
Major nutrient deficienciesPhosphorus, potassium and molybdenum.
Main insect pestsNone encountered.
Main diseasesStemphylium and cercospora leaf spot during moist autumn. Ensure adequate ventilation.
ManagementLight grazing in establishment year. Once established, Shaw tolerates prolonged heavy grazing. Grazing pressure should be set to produce a low, leafy canopy. Bulky, undergrazed stands develop severe leaf diseases.
Livestock disorders of particular noteNitrate poisoning has occurred by ingestion of a related species.
Additional tipsWill grow over crofton weed, mistflower and blady grass, facilitating control by trampling. Sensitive to most herbicides.
Further information

Acknowledgments

Advice on livestock health disorders was provided by Dr Chris Bourke, Principal Research Scientist, NSW Agriculture, Orange. His contribution is gratefully acknowledged.

Photo: Bede Clarke, NSW Agriculture, Casino