Overview
Acmella repens (Walt.) L.C. Rich., commonly known as Creeping Spotflower, is a small flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Native to North and Central America, the plant is known for its medicinal properties and is widely used in traditional medicine for various ailments.Appearance
The Creeping Spotflower is a low-growing perennial herb that typically grows up to 30 cm in height. The plant produces a creeping stem that forms a dense mat of foliage on the ground. The leaves of the plant are small and oval-shaped, and they grow in opposite pairs along the stem. The flowers of Acmella repens are small and yellow, with a distinctive button-like appearance.Common Names
The Creeping Spotflower goes by many names, including Toothache Plant, Spilanthes, Paracress, and Botox Plant. The common names reflect the plant's various uses and medicinal properties.Uses
Acmella repens has been used for centuries by indigenous peoples for its analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. The plant is commonly used to treat toothaches, gum infections, and other oral health problems. It is believed that the plant's analgesic properties are due to the presence of a compound called spilanthol, which numbs the affected area. In addition to its medicinal uses, Acmella repens is also used as a culinary herb in some parts of the world. The plant has a distinctive flavor, and its leaves and flowers are used to add a spicy, tingling sensation to food.Conclusion
Acmella repens is a versatile plant with a wide range of uses. Its popularity in traditional medicine and as a culinary herb has led to its cultivation in many parts of the world. With its attractive appearance and unique flavor, the Creeping Spotflower is an interesting addition to any garden.Light requirements
Acmella repens typically thrives in partial shade to full sunlight environments. When grown in low light conditions, the plant tends to stretch to reach light, resulting in weak stems. However, bright direct sunlight may damage the leaves, leading to burn injuries. Therefore, it is advisable to grow the plant in areas that receive filtered sunlight or artificial lighting that simulates partial shade.
Temperature requirements
Acmella repens prefers warm temperatures ranging from 18°C-27°C (64°F-81°F). The plant is sensitive to frost, and extreme cold temperatures may cause irreversible damages. It is essential to protect the plant from harsh freezing temperatures by moving it indoors or covering it with frost cloths.
Soil requirements
Acmella repens prefers well-draining, loamy soil rich in organic matter to promote healthy plant growth and development. The ideal soil pH level is between 5.7 and 7.0. The plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soils, which may lead to root rot and stunted growth. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure proper drainage by adding sand, gravel, or perlite to the soil mix. Additionally, regular fertilization with balanced liquid or granular fertilizer can provide the necessary nutrients for optimum plant growth and productivity.
Cultivation Methods for Acmella repens (Walt.) L.C. Rich.
Acmella repens (Walt.) L.C. Rich. is a hardy plant that can tolerate different soil types, but it does best in well-draining soil. Start by clearing any debris from the chosen area and loosen the soil to prepare it. The planting hole should match the size of the plant's pot, and you should be careful not to bury it too deep. The plant should be at ground level, and any excess soil should be packed around it and watered.
Watering Needs for Acmella repens (Walt.) L.C. Rich.
Acmella repens is a drought-resistant plant once it is established. As a general rule, the plant needs to be watered once a week, especially during dry spells or when grown in potted form. Make sure to water in the early morning or evening, thus avoiding the hottest hours of the day. Watering should never be done in excess, as Acmella repens does not do well in soggy soil.
Fertilization for Acmella repens (Walt.) L.C. Rich.
Acmella repens does not need much fertilizer, but it is good to give it a light feeding of balanced organic or granular fertilizer once every two months. Overdoing it on the fertilizing will hinder the flowering of the plant.
Pruning for Acmella repens (Walt.) L.C. Rich.
Acmella repens is not a plant that needs a lot of pruning, although it benefits from deadheading. Remove spent blooms, which will encourage new growth and more flowers. If the plant seems too leggy or ungainly, you can cut back the stems by a third during the growing season, which should make the foliage bushier and cause the plant to put out more blooms.
Propagation of Acmella repens (Walt.) L.C. Rich.
Acmella repens (Walt.) L.C. Rich., commonly known as Toothache Plant or Spilanthes, is an attractive ornamental plant with medicinal properties that can be propagated through various methods such as cuttings, seeds, and division.
Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is the most common and easiest way to propagate Acmella repens. Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings of 6-8 cm in length are taken from mature, healthy plants in late spring or early summer.
The leaves in the lower one-third of the cutting are removed, and the cutting is planted in a well-drained, fertile substrate. The substrate is kept moist and the cutting is placed in a shaded area until rooting occurs, which usually takes about 4-6 weeks. Once rooted, the young plant can be transplanted into larger pots or the garden bed.
Seeds
Acmella repens can also be propagated via seeds, which are small, black, and comma-shaped. The seeds can be sown indoors in early spring or directly into the garden bed after the last frost has passed.
The seeds should be sown in a light soil mix and pressed lightly into the soil surface. The substrate should be kept moist, and the seeds should germinate within 10-14 days. Once the seedlings have developed two or three leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots or the garden bed.
Division
Propagation of Acmella repens through division involves dividing the plants into smaller clumps. This method is suitable for mature plants that have become overcrowded or need to be rejuvenated.
The clump is dug out of the ground and gently pulled apart into smaller clumps, each with several stems and roots. The smaller clumps are replanted immediately in soil that is rich in organic matter and kept moist until they become established.
Disease and Pest Management of Acmella repens
Acmella repens, also known as toothache plant or electric daisy, is relatively resistant to diseases and pests. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to some problems that can affect its growth and health. Therefore, proper management is necessary to keep the plant healthy and productive.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that affect Acmella repens are fungal diseases such as rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Rust appears as yellow, orange, or brown pustules on the underside of the leaves, while powdery mildew forms a white powdery growth on the leaves and stems. Leaf spot, on the other hand, causes the leaves to turn brown or black and die off prematurely.
Pest Management
Acmella repens is usually not bothered by pests, but occasionally, some insects can cause problems. Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies are the most common pests that attack toothache plants. Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to curl and distort. Spider mites are tiny, spider-like pests that feed on the undersides of the leaves. They can cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop prematurely. Whiteflies are small, white insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to become yellow and the plant to weaken.
Disease Management
Fungal diseases can be prevented by maintaining good plant hygiene, such as removing infected leaves and avoiding splashing water on the leaves. Also, applying fungicides can help prevent and treat fungal diseases. However, it is crucial to follow the instructions carefully and apply the fungicides according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Pest Control
Preventive measures can help control pests that affect Acmella repens. Inspect the plant regularly to detect any pest infestations early, and remove any damaged parts of the plant. Also, avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can attract pests. If insecticides are necessary, use them only when other control methods have failed. Always follow the instructions carefully and apply the insecticides according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
By managing diseases and pests on Acmella repens, you can ensure a healthy and productive plant that can provide you with its culinary and medicinal benefits for a long time.
