Molokhia

Molokhia

Scientific Name:
Corchorus olitorius

Family:
Malvaceae

Varieties:

• Default (ID: 33)

Introduction

Corchorus olitorius, commonly known as Molokhia, Nalta jute, or Jew’s mallow, is a species of shrub in the family Malvaceae. It is one of the primary sources of jute fiber, alongside Corchorus capsularis. The plant is widely cultivated for its leaves, which are used as a vegetable, and for its fiber, which is used to produce cloth like burlap and Hessian. Molokhia is a significant crop in many tropical regions, particularly in Africa and Asia, where it has been cultivated for centuries.

Characteristics

• Physical Characteristics: Corchorus olitorius is an erect herbaceous plant that grows up to 1.5 meters high but can reach 4 meters when cultivated for fiber production. It has serrate, acute leaves that are 6 to 10 cm long and 2 to 4 cm wide. The plant produces small yellow flowers and spindle-shaped fruits containing numerous seeds.
• Growing Conditions: It thrives in lowland tropics with optimal temperatures between 16.8 and 27.5°C. The plant prefers fertile, well-drained soil with a pH range of 4.5 to 8.2 and can tolerate a wide range of precipitation.
• Lifecycle: Corchorus olitorius is an annual crop. Seeds are pre-soaked in hot water to overcome dormancy, and germination occurs within two to three days after sowing. The plant is typically grown in rows with spacing of 20–50 cm and requires regular weeding and manuring.

Why is this crop useful for space?

While there are no specific references to Corchorus olitorius being cultivated in space, its potential benefits for space cultivation can be inferred from its characteristics: - Nutritional Value: The leaves are rich in nutrients like betacarotene, iron, calcium, and vitamin C, making them a valuable food source in space missions where maintaining nutritional health is crucial. - Adaptability: The plant’s ability to grow in suboptimal soil conditions and tolerate a wide range of environmental factors could make it suitable for controlled environments like those found in space habitats. - Fiber Production: The jute fiber from Corchorus olitorius could potentially be used for creating durable materials needed in space missions, such as bags or clothing.

History of Cultivation in Space (if there is any)

There is no documented history of Corchorus olitorius being cultivated in space. However, its adaptability and nutritional value make it a candidate for future space agriculture experiments aimed at providing sustainable food sources in space environments.