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Manihot esculenta
Cassava
Manihot esculenta
Cassava (Manihot esculenta) is a woody shrub native to South America, belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is a globally important crop, primarily cultivated for its starchy tuberous roots, a significant source of carbohydrates in many tropical regions. The plant can reach heights of 1–3 m, with deeply lobed leaves. The roots are generally long and tapering, and the plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers.
CategoryDetails
Plant TypePerennial plant
Culinary UsageEdible plant
Medicinal UsageMedicinal Usage
Duration to maturity6 months to harvest
Estimated Plant Lifespan5 years lifespan
Sun Requirements6+ hours direct sunlight (Full Sun)
Pollination

Method: Insect pollination

Watering Requirements

Method: Drip irrigation or deep watering

Frequency: When the top few inches of soil are dry

Notes: Avoid frequent shallow watering to encourage deep root growth.

Humidity Requirements

Level: Moderate

Cleaning RequirementsRegular weeding to prevent competition for nutrients and moisture. Support for tall varieties may be needed to prevent lodging.
Temperature Range

Min: 15°C

Max: 35°C

Alternative NamesManihot utilissima, Manioc, Manihot dulcis, Manihot flabellifolia, Bitter Cassava, Manoic, Tapioca, Tapioca Plant, kiki-tsiim, Jatropha manihot, Manihot aipi, Manihot esculenta flabellifolia, Manihot esculenta esculenta, Manihot utilissima castellana

Cultivars

Yellow

Price: $21
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Zea mays
Maize
Zea mays
Cassava can benefit from the shade provided by maize, particularly in drier regions, as it reduces water evaporation from the soil. Maize, in turn, can utilize nutrients that cassava may not fully access.
Phaseolus vulgaris
Common Bean
Phaseolus vulgaris
Beans are nitrogen-fixing plants, enriching the soil with nitrogen which benefits cassava's growth. The beans' shallower root system complements cassava's deeper roots, improving overall nutrient uptake.
Sorghum bicolor
Sorghums
Sorghum bicolor

Sorghum and cassava compete for the same resources, particularly water and nutrients, especially in drier conditions. Their similar root depths lead to direct competition for soil moisture and nutrients.

Cassava mealybug

The cassava mealybug (Phenacoccus manihoti) is a significant pest, sucking sap from the stems and leaves, leading to stunted growth, reduced yield, and even plant death. Symptoms include white, cottony masses on the stems and leaves, and yellowing or wilting.

Cassava green mite

The cassava green mite (Mononychellus tanajoa) causes leaf damage, characterized by stippling, bronzing, and webbing on the undersides of leaves. Severe infestations can lead to significant yield reduction.

Cassava hornworm

The cassava hornworm (Erinnyis ello) is a caterpillar that feeds on the leaves and can cause significant defoliation. Their feeding activity can result in stunted growth and reduced yields.

Steps:

    • Cut healthy stem segments of approximately 20-30cm in length.
    • Remove lower leaves to prevent rotting.
    • Dip the cut ends in a rooting hormone (optional).
    • Plant the cuttings directly into moist soil or a propagation mix.
    • Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
    • Provide partial shade until new growth appears.

Neem oil

Effective against various pests like mealybugs and mites.

Potassium silicate

Strengthens plant cell walls, improving resistance to pests and diseases.