Overview
Alchemilla rehmannii Engl. is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Rosaceae family. It is native to western China and has been extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine due to its various health benefits.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Rehmannia's lady's mantle. It is also known as Di-huang in traditional Chinese medicine.
Appearance
The plant grows up to 50 cm tall and has green leaves that are deeply lobed, resembling the shape of a fan. The flowers are small and yellow-green in color, and the plant blooms from June to August. It is a hardy plant and can thrive in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Uses
Alchemilla rehmannii Engl. is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine as it is believed to have a number of health benefits. The plant's roots and rhizomes are used in a variety of medicinal and therapeutic preparations. It is commonly used to treat conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, arthritis, and skin disorders. Additionally, it is believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Rehmannia's lady's mantle is also used in cosmetics as it is believed to have moisturizing and anti-aging effects on the skin. It has also been used in traditional Chinese cuisine as an ingredient in soups and teas.
Overall, Alchemilla rehmannii Engl. is a versatile plant with various health and therapeutic benefits. Its traditional uses in medicine and cosmetics have propelled its popularity throughout the world.
Light Requirements
Alchemilla rehmannii Engl. plants prefer partial to full shade to thrive. They can withstand direct sunlight, but hot afternoon sun can damage their leaves. The plant's leaves might turn brown and lose their lush green color if exposed to excessive sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
These plants usually grow well in temperatures between 65°F-70°F (18°C to 21°C) during the day and 50°F to 55°F (10°C to13°C) at night. They are adapted to cooler climates and don't tolerate high temperatures and humidity. During winter, they can survive in freezing temperatures if the soil is consistently moist and the roots well-established.
Soil Requirements
Alchemilla rehmannii Engl. thrives in rich, well-draining soil. It prefers soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It is highly recommended to add organic matter, such as compost, to the soil before planting. The plant's roots don't like to sit in stagnant water, so adequate drainage is essential. A pH range between 5.5 to 6.5 is optimal for this plant.
Cultivation methods for Alchemilla rehmannii Engl.
Alchemilla rehmannii Engl. prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Choose a location that receives partial to full sunlight. You can propagate the plant through division in the spring or fall. When planting, make sure to space the plants at least 12 inches apart.
Watering needs for Alchemilla rehmannii Engl.
Alchemilla rehmannii Engl. does not require a lot of water. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water when the soil feels dry to the touch, about once a week.
Fertilization for Alchemilla rehmannii Engl.
Alchemilla rehmannii Engl. does not need a lot of fertilizer. In fact, too much fertilizer can cause the plant to produce fewer flowers. If you notice that the plant is not growing well, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully.
Pruning for Alchemilla rehmannii Engl.
Alchemilla rehmannii Engl. does not require a lot of pruning. You can deadhead the spent flowers to encourage new growth, but it is not necessary. In the fall, you can cut the plants back to the ground to prepare them for winter.
Propagation of Alchemilla rehmannii Engl.
Alchemilla rehmannii Engl. is commonly known as Lady's mantle. It is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to a height of 30 cm. Propagation of this plant can be carried out using several methods.
Propagation through Seeds
The easiest method to grow Alchemilla rehmannii is through seeds. Seeds can be collected from the plant itself when it dries and turns brown. The seeds can then be sown in a well-draining soil mixture. Water the soil lightly and maintain moisture by covering it with plastic or glass. Keep the container in a warm spot, ideally around 18-22°C. After a week or two, the seeds should start to germinate. Once the seedlings are large enough, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation through Division
Alchemilla rehmannii can also be propagated by division. This is normally done in spring or autumn when the plant is not in full growth. Simply remove the plant from the soil and divide the root ball into smaller sections. The smaller sections should have at least a few leaves and some roots. Replant into new, well-draining soil and water well.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings can also be carried out, although it is a bit more difficult than the previous methods. Take cuttings from the plant in the late spring or early summer when the stems are strong. Cuttings should be around 10 cm long and should be taken from the top of the plant. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in soil mix and water it well. Keep the cutting in a shaded spot, ideally in a greenhouse. It should take around 4-6 weeks for the cutting to start rooting.
Disease and Pest Management for Alchemilla rehmannii Engl.
Alchemilla rehmannii Engl., commonly known as Lady's mantle, is a hardy plant that can withstand adverse conditions but is still susceptible to some pests and diseases. Proper disease and pest management practices are therefore necessary to ensure the continued wellbeing of the plant.
Common Pests
Lady's mantle is generally hardy against most pests; however, It may sometimes be attacked by aphids and spider mites.
Aphids: Aphids feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to curl and distorting plant growth. They also leave a sticky secretion that attracts ants and may promote the development of black sooty mold. To control aphids, spray the plant with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Alternatively, introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings that prey on aphids.
Spider Mites: These tiny pests are hard to detect, but their presence can be seen by the yellowing of the leaves. Spider mites thrive on hot and dry conditions, so regular misting and increase in humidity can discourage mite infestations. If heavily infested with spider mites, use a miticide or insecticidal soap to eliminate them.
Common Diseases
Lady's mantle is generally resistant to most diseases, but it may suffer from some fungal diseases.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the plants' leaves. It appears as white powdery patches on the leaves, which can lead to their decay if not controlled. Avoid overhead watering and crowding of plants to minimize powdery mildew spread. Fungicides like copper can prevent the development of powdery mildew.
Leaf Spots: Leaf spots are caused by fungal pathogens that leave small brown or black spots on the leaves. They can spread and cause plant defoliation if not controlled. Remove the infected leaves and destroy them. Practice good soil sanitation and avoid overhead watering as these can promote fungal infections.
Regular monitoring of the plant and taking quick action in the event of pest or disease infestations is the best way to manage diseases and pests effectively. A healthy plant will have a better resistance to pest and disease occurrence.
