Overview
Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm. is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Rosaceae. It is commonly known as the “Elgon lady’s mantle”. This plant is native to East Africa, specifically in the high altitudes of Mount Elgon that straddles the border between Uganda and Kenya. It grows in damp rocky areas, along streams, and in forests.
Appearance
The Elgon lady’s mantle is an erect plant that can reach a height of 30-50 cm. It has rhizomes that produce hairy stems that are erect or slightly curved. The leaves are alternate, and they are deeply lobed with seven to nine lobes that are rounded and toothed. The leaves are hairy and glandular, giving them a velvety texture. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow in color, and are borne in dense clusters at the tips of the stems. The plants blossom from June to August.
Uses
Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm. is primarily used in traditional medicine as a herbal remedy for various ailments. The leaves and roots contain tannins, flavonoids, and other compounds that have antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. The decoction of the plant is used as a remedy for stomach disorders, coughs, colds, and bronchitis. It is also used in the treatment of wounds, skin diseases, and eye infections. The plant is also used by herbalists to alleviate menstrual disorders and to regulate hormonal imbalances.
The plant is also used in landscaping due to its attractive velvety foliage. It is incorporated in perennial borders, rock gardens, and as groundcovers. Additionally, the plant is used for ornamental purposes, and it is often used in floral arrangements and as a filler plant in bouquets.
Light Requirements
Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm. grows best in partially shaded conditions. It cannot tolerate full sun exposure for extended periods, which can damage the leaves or cause them to wilt. On the other hand, lack of light can lead to leggy growth and weaken the plant. Therefore, it is advisable to provide the plant with indirect sunlight for 4-6 hours per day, especially during the morning and evening hours.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm. is between 15-20°C (59-68°F). Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can stunt its growth or cause leaf drop. Similarly, overly warm conditions of above 25°C (77°F) can stress the plant and make it more susceptible to pests and diseases. Therefore, it is recommended to maintain a moderate temperature, with good ventilation, to ensure healthy growth.
Soil Requirements
Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm. prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter and nutrients. The pH level should be slightly acidic, ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. Heavy or compacted soils that retain water can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. Therefore, it is advisable to amend the soil with compost or peat moss and ensure proper drainage by adding gravel or sand. Additionally, regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer can provide the necessary nutrients to support healthy growth.
Cultivation of Alchemilla Elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. Platyloba Rothm.
Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm. is a hardy, low-growing perennial plant that is native to South Africa. It is commonly known as the Olive Mountain Lady's-Mantle and is ideal for growing in rock gardens or as ground cover.
This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and will grow well in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It is reasonably drought-tolerant and can withstand hot, dry conditions, making it a perfect choice for gardens that receive minimal rainfall.
Watering Needs
Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm. is reasonably drought-tolerant and can withstand hot, dry conditions. However, it would still be best to keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season. Water the plant deeply once a week during the summer months, and reduce watering in the fall and winter.
Avoid getting water on the foliage as it could lead to fungal growth and disease.
Fertilization
Feed Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm. with a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in the early spring, before new growth emerges. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the fall and winter months.
Pruning
Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm. is a low-growing plant that rarely exceeds 30 cm in height. It does not require any significant pruning, except to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased foliage and stems as and when necessary. However, if the plant has outgrown its space, you can prune it back to the desired size in the early spring, before new growth emerges.
Propagation of Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm.
Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm. is a herbaceous perennial plant that can be propagated by various methods. The most commonly used methods for propagation of Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm. include division, seed, and cutting.
Division
Division is a common method of propagation for Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm. and is best done in early spring or autumn. The plant can be divided into smaller sections using a spade or a sharp knife. Each section should have some roots and shoots. The divided sections can then be transplanted into well-draining soil.
Seed
Propagation of Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm. can also be done through seeds. The seeds should be collected when the fruits ripen and turn brown. The collected seeds can then be sown in a well-prepared seedbed in early spring or autumn. The seedbed should be kept moist but not too wet until the seedlings are large enough to transplant into their permanent position.
Cutting
Propagation by cutting can be done in late spring or early summer. Softwood cuttings of about 10-15 cm in length can be taken from the parent plant. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and then inserted into a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid environment until they root.
Disease Management for Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm.
Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm. is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, it is still susceptible to certain diseases. Here are a few common diseases that might affect the plant, along with ways to manage them:
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can affect most plants, including Alchemilla elongata. It can cause leaves to become distorted and eventually fall off. To manage powdery mildew, you can spray the plant with sulfur, neem oil, or a fungicide that contains potassium bicarbonate.
- Leaf spots: Leaf spots are caused by various fungal and bacterial pathogens and can cause brown or black spots on the plant's leaves. To manage leaf spots, remove and destroy all infected leaves and provide proper plant care, including avoiding overhead watering and ensuring adequate air circulation around the plant.
Pest Management for Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm.
Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm. is also relatively pest-resistant, but it can still be affected by a few pests. Here are some common pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant. They can cause yellowing and stunted growth of the plant. To manage aphids, you can wash them off with a strong jet of water, use insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, spider-like insects that can cause yellowed leaves and webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, you can spray the plant with water, neem oil, or a miticide.
Regular monitoring and proper plant care, including adequate watering and fertilization, can help prevent both diseases and pest problems in Alchemilla elongata Eckl. & Zeyh. var. platyloba Rothm.
