Overview
Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl. is a perennial plant species that is native to the mountains of East Africa. It is a member of the Alchemilla genus, which is part of the Rosaceae family. The plant is known by a few common names, including Kiwu Alchemilla and Giant Lady's Mantle.
Description
Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl. has an upright and clumping growth habit, with a height that can range from 2 to 4 feet. The plant features large, hairy leaves that can grow up to 6 inches in diameter. The leaves are deeply lobed, with toothed edges, and can have a green to gray-green color. The plant has a strong and fibrous root system, which allows it to anchor firmly in the ground.
Uses
The leaves of Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl. have been used for various medicinal purposes in East African traditional medicine. The plant is believed to possess diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties and has been used to treat fever, diarrhea, and menstrual cramps. Additionally, the leaves have been used as a poultice to soothe skin irritations and burns.
While Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl. is primarily cultivated for its ornamental value, the plant can also be used in gardens as a ground cover or in rock gardens to provide a beautiful display of foliage.
Cultivation
Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl. prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered regularly but not excessively, as it can suffer from root rot. Propagation can be done through division or stem cuttings. The plant is relatively low maintenance and does not require pruning.
While Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl. is not widely available in commercial plant nurseries, it can be obtained from specialized plant collectors or propagated from seed.
Light Requirements
Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl. prefers partial shade to full sun. It can thrive well in areas where it receives filtered shade for a few hours each day. If it is grown in areas with too much sunlight, the leaves may scorch, causing damage to the plant.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers a mild, cool climate with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 22°C. It can tolerate temperatures below freezing but cannot withstand hot, dry weather. If the temperatures are too high, the leaves may wilt, and the plant may die.
Soil Requirements
Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl. requires well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. A loamy soil that is rich in organic matter is ideal for this plant. It prefers moist soil but cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions. To ensure proper drainage, it is advisable to plant it in a raised flower bed or container.
Cultivation of Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl.
Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl. is a perennial herb that grows in rocky areas, wetlands, and forests. It requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic material. It is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
Watering Needs for Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl.
Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl. grows best under moist conditions. It requires moderate watering during the growing season, and one should ensure the soil is kept slightly damp. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot. During the dormant period, reduce watering to avoid the soil becoming waterlogged.
Fertilization of Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl.
Use an all-purpose organic fertilizer to maintain soil fertility. Apply the fertilizer once in early spring before active growth and again in mid-summer. Avoid over-fertilization as it can cause leafy growth at the expense of flower production.
Pruning Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl.
Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl. does not require regular pruning, but you can remove dead or damaged foliage at any time. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to promote bushier growth. Cut back up to a third of the plant's growth to stimulate new shoots and flowers.
Propagation of Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl.
Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl., commonly known as the Kiwu alchemilla or Kiwu lady's mantle, is a low-growing perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to East Africa and is widely grown for its attractive foliage and flowers.
Propagation of Alchemilla kiwuensis can be done through different methods, which include:
Propagation by Seeds
One way to propagate Alchemilla kiwuensis is through seed germination. Collect the seeds during the late summer or early fall when the plant has finished blooming. Sow the cleaned seeds in a well-prepared seedbed with fertile, well-drained soil. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep them moist. The seeds will germinate within 2-4 weeks. When the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Propagation by Division
Alchemilla kiwuensis can also be propagated by dividing the plant, which involves separating the mature plant into several smaller plants. This should be done during the early spring or fall when the plant is not in bloom. Dig up the plant and gently separate the roots into smaller clumps, ensuring that each clump has several stems and roots. Replant the clumps in well-prepared soil with good drainage, and water thoroughly.
Propagation by Softwood Cuttings
Softwood cuttings can be taken from Alchemilla kiwuensis during the late spring or early summer when the new growth is still green and pliable. Take cuttings that are 4-6 inches long and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone and plant the cuttings in a pot with well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a shaded area. The cuttings should root within 3-4 weeks, at which point they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden.
Disease Management
The Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl. is generally a disease-resistant plant. However, the following common diseases can affect it:
- Bacterial Blight: This disease is characterized by water-soaked spots on leaves, stems, and flowers. The spots turn brownish and cause leaves to wilt, leading to death. Use appropriate copper-based bactericides to manage the disease.
- Gray Mold: It is a fungal disease that attacks the plant's tissues causing it to wilt and eventually die. Remove the affected parts of the plant and apply fungicides to prevent the disease from spreading.
- Root Rot: It is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to decay. The plant appears stunted, and the leaves turn yellow and fall off. Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Use appropriate fungicides to manage the disease.
Pest Management
The Alchemilla kiwuensis Engl. is prone to pest attacks, especially from the following common pests:
- Aphids: These insects suck the sap out of leaves and stems, causing stunted growth and death. Use insecticides or natural predators such as ladybugs to manage aphids.
- Spider Mites: It is a tiny insect that causes yellow speckles on leaves and webs on the plant. The leaves eventually fall off, leading to plant death. Use miticides to control spider mites.
- Thrips: These insects suck the sap out of plant tissues, causing leaves to turn yellow and curl upwards. Use insecticides or natural predators such as predatory mites to manage thrips.
