Overview
Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis (De Wild.) R.A.Graham is a herbaceous perennial that belongs to the family Rosaceae. It is a unique and rare plant that is often known for its medicinal value. The plant is native to the mountains of Tanzania, and it is commonly found in the Nyika Plateau National Park.Common Names
Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis (De Wild.) R.A.Graham is commonly known as Nyika lady's mantle or Nyika Mountain lady's mantle. It derives its name from the place it is predominantly found, the Nyika Plateau National Park, Tanzania.Appearance
Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis (De Wild.) R.A.Graham is a small herbaceous perennial that grows to a height of 10 cm. The plant has small, dark green, and roundish leaves ranging from 1.5 to 5 cm in diameter. The leaves often have serrated edges and shallow lobes. The plant produces clusters of small, yellow-green flowers with a diameter of about 3 mm on its stems, which are 3-6 cm long.Uses
Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis (De Wild.) R.A.Graham has several medicinal properties, which make it useful in traditional medicine. Its leaves are rich in tannins, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds that are beneficial to the human body. The plant is used to treat inflammation, mild menstrual pain, and heavy menstrual bleeding. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in treating rheumatism and arthritis. Additionally, the Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis (De Wild.) R.A.Graham has been used to improve digestion, clear skin disorders, and enhance wound healing.Light Requirements
Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis (De Wild.) R.A.Graham prefers growing in areas that receive partial shade. The plant may also tolerate full sun, but it will perform better in areas where the intensity of sunlight is limited.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis (De Wild.) R.A.Graham to grow is between 15°C and 20°C. The plant may experience some growth challenges in areas where the temperature drops below 10°C. Temperatures that exceed 25°C may also cause plant damage and slow growth.
Soil Requirements
Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis (De Wild.) R.A.Graham requires well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant can grow in various soil types, and it does well in soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should also retain some moisture, but it should not be waterlogged. Before planting, it is advisable to amend the soil by incorporating organic matter or compost to improve its quality.
Cultivation methods
Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis (De Wild.) R.A.Graham can be grown in pots or containers, in a well-draining soil mix. It is recommended to keep the plant in partial shade with access to indirect sunlight. Due to its sensitivity to high temperatures, it is advisable to grow it in cool areas with good ventilation.
Watering needs
The plant requires a moderate amount of watering. Overwatering can cause damage to the leaves and roots. It is best to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. A good way to know when to water the plant is to check the top inch of the soil for dryness before watering again.
Fertilization
It is important to fertilize the plant during the growing period using a balanced liquid fertilizer. The fertilizer should be applied every two weeks for optimal growth. It is recommended to avoid using fertilizers with high nitrogen content as this can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of flower development.
Pruning
Pruning can help the plant to maintain its shape and control its size. It is best to prune during the dormant season before new growth begins. Dead or damaged leaves should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease. To encourage flowering, it is advisable to remove spent flowers regularly.
Propagation of Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis
Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis (De Wild.) R.A.Graham is commonly referred to as 'Nyika lady's mantle.' This herbaceous flowering plant is native to sub-Saharan Africa and is mainly propagated through seeds. The following are some of the propagation methods for Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis through seeds is a simple process. Start by collecting the seeds during the flowering period of the plant. The seeds should be mature and dry. Next, prepare a seedbed by loosening the soil and removing any weeds or debris. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
Sow the seeds thinly on the seedbed and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist by spraying with water occasionally. The seeds should germinate within 2-3 weeks. After germination, thin the seedlings to allow for proper growth and development. The seedlings should be transplanted to their final location when they are large enough to handle.
Division
Division is another propagation method for Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections, each with its own root system. Division is best carried out during the early spring or fall when the plant is dormant.
To divide the plant, carefully dig it up and separate the sections using a sharp knife or garden spade. Ensure that each section has enough roots to support its growth. Replant the sections immediately to prevent them from drying out.
Cuttings
Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis can also be propagated through cuttings. This method involves taking stem cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them in a suitable medium.
To take cuttings, use a sharp, sterile blade or scissors and cut a 4-6 inch section of stem from the parent plant. Strip off the lower leaves and make a clean cut at the base of the stem. Next, dip the cutting into rooting hormone powder and plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining rooting mixture.
Keep the cutting in a warm, humid location and maintain the moisture level in the rooting medium. The cutting should root within 4-6 weeks. After rooting, transplant the cutting to its permanent location.
Disease Management for Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis (De Wild.) R.A.Graham
The occurrence of diseases on Alchemilla ellenbeckii is not common. However, when they appear, they can be severe and reduce the plant’s vigor and beauty. Some of the common diseases that might affect the plant include rust, leaf spot, and powdery mildew.
Rust: Rust on Alchemilla ellenbeckii appears as small, yellow-orange spots on the leaves. As leaves mature, the rust spots turn brown with black dots, which are the fungal fruiting bodies. To manage rust, remove infected plant parts and destroy them. Implementing cultural practices such as avoiding overhead watering, proper plant spacing, and providing adequate air circulation can help prevent rust infection. Fungicide sprays can be applied as a preventive measure before the rust infection starts.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot on Alchemilla ellenbeckii presents as tiny, circular, dark spots with light centers appearing on the leaf surface. To manage leaf spots, remove the infected plant parts and destroy them. Fungicides can help manage leaf spots, but proper sanitation practices are the best preventive measure.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew on Alchemilla ellenbeckii appears as a white, powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and flowers. Reduce humidity, increase air circulation, and provide ample sun exposure to help manage powdery mildew. Fungicides are also effective against powdery mildew infection.
Pest Management for Alchemilla ellenbeckii Engl. subsp. nyikensis (De Wild.) R.A.Graham
Alchemilla ellenbeckii is generally pest-resistant. However, some pests may occasionally attack the plant. Below are some common pests that can be problematic:
Aphids: Aphids feed on Alchemilla ellenbeckii sap, causing leaves to yellow and wilt. Aphids can be managed through cultural practices like regular pruning, removing weeds, and periodic hosing down of the plants. Insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil can also be applied.
Spider mites: Spider mites harm the plant by sucking the sap out of the plant tissue, leaving a stippled appearance on leaves. They thrive in hot, dry weather. Regular misting of the plant and increasing the humidity to discourage spider mites. The use of insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil can help manage spider mites.
Slugs and snails: Slugs, and snails feed on the plant leaves and stem, leaving irregular holes and slime trails on the leaves. To manage slug and snail infestation, remove plant debris, boards, or leaf piles that provide hiding places, handpicking, or applying slug baits.
