Overview
Alchemilla rothii Oliv. is a flowering plant species that is part of the Rosaceae family. It is native to Asia, specifically found in Bhutan, China, India, Nepal, and Sikkim. It is commonly referred to as Roth's lady's mantle due to its discoverer, the botanist Alphonse Pyrame de Candolle who named it after British botanist Henry Roth.
Description
The Alchemilla rothii Oliv. is a perennial herb with a height that ranges from 10-30 cm. The plant produces basal leaves and hairy stem leaves. The leaves have round shapes with toothed edges and are covered with silky hairs on both surfaces. It also has small greenish-yellow unisexual flowers and is usually seen blooming from July to August.
Uses
The Alchemilla rothii Oliv. plant is known for its medicinal properties. It has been used in traditional medicine for treating various illnesses such as stomach disorders, fever and diarrhea. It is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and is used to relieve pain and swelling. Additionally, Roth's lady's mantle has aesthetic uses and can be used in gardens to add color and texture to a garden bed or border.
Cultivation
Alchemilla rothii Oliv. prefers to grow in well-drained soils in areas with high rainfall distributed throughout the year. It requires cool summer temperatures and partial shade. The plant can be grown from seeds, but the division of established clumps is the most effective way to propagate it. Roth's lady's mantle has a low maintenance requirement and is easy to grow.
Light Requirements
Alchemilla rothii Oliv. thrives in partial to full shade, although it can tolerate some direct sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf scorch and can be detrimental to the plant's growth. Therefore, placing it under the shade of a tree or next to a building that provides some shade can be helpful if grown outside. Inside the house, the plant can be placed near a window that receives bright but indirect sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Alchemilla rothii Oliv. is between 13 °C and 24 °C (55 °F - 75 °F). Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) or above 29°C (85°F) can slow down or damage the growth of the plant. It is essential to provide insulation for the plant during colder seasons, especially if outdoor gardening is preferred. Indoors, it is recommended to keep the Alchemilla rothii Oliv. away from temperature sources like heaters or hot windows, as they create high-temperature gradients that affects the plant's growth significantly.
Soil Requirements
The Alchemilla rothii Oliv. is a low maintenance plant, and it is not a picky plant concerning soil texture. However, the soil must be fertile, well-drained, and slightly acidic, with a pH level between 5.5 to 6.5. The plant can grow in various soils, including loam, sandy loam, and clay-loam soils. For outdoor gardening, the soil must also be rich in organic matter, and fertilizer must be applied during the early growth stages to assist with plant growth. For indoor plants, the soil must be well-drained and not waterlogged as they can lead to root rots.
Cultivation Methods
Alchemilla rothii Oliv. is best cultivated in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It requires a lot of sunlight exposure. The plant can tolerate freezing, frost, and drought conditions. Plant the seeds in a hole twice the size of the seed, ensuring that the hole isn't too deep to prevent loss of light. Alternatively, rooting may be done in water or soil.
Watering Needs
The watering needs for the Alchemilla rothii Oliv. plant are moderate, requiring moist, but not too soggy, soil. Water the plant liberally when the topmost soil levels seem to be dry. Overwatering may lead to root rot, while under-watering may cause the plant leaves to droop and eventually fall off.
Fertilization
The Alchemilla rothii Oliv. plant thrives in soils rich with organic matter, making organic fertilizers the best option. Fertilize the plant at the start of the growing season and repeat the procedure two more times at intervals of three months. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, which results in quick growth and low leaves' emission giving the plant a weed-like appearance.
Pruning
Pruning of Alchemilla rothii Oliv. mainly involves trimming off dead or dying leaves and reducing the plant size to control its spread. If the plant spreads faster than expected or beyond its boundaries, prune back the ground-level leaves and stems to activate the plant's growth from its roots. Careful not to trim too much, which may damage the plant's health.
Propagation methods for Alchemilla rothii Oliv.
Alchemilla rothii Oliv. is propagated through three primary methods: through seed, division, and cuttings.
Propagation through seed:
The seeds of Alchemilla rothii can be sown either directly in the ground or in a container. It is best to sow the seeds during the late summer or early fall. Before sowing, the soil should be moistened. The seeds can be scattered over the soil and lightly covered with a thin layer of soil. They should not be deeply buried. Water the seeds and keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Germination should occur within 2-3 weeks.
Propagation through division:
If a mature plant has grown too large or has stopped flowering, it can be divided to create new plants. This should be done during the spring or fall. The plant should be carefully lifted from the soil and the roots gently shaken to remove loose soil. The plant can be divided by cutting through the root system with a sharp, clean knife. Each division should have several healthy roots and shoots. The new plants can then be replanted in new soil.
Propagation through cuttings:
Alchemilla rothii can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the summer. Cut a stem to a length of about 5-6 inches, making the cut just below a node. Remove all the leaves from the bottom 2 inches of the stem and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Place the cutting in moist soil, burying the cut end about an inch deep. Keep the soil moist and the cutting should root within 4-6 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Alchemilla rothii Oliv.
Alchemilla rothii Oliv., commonly known as Roth's lady's mantle, is a hardy perennial that is often grown for its attractive foliage and small green flowers. While the plant is relatively disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to a few common diseases and pests. Here are some tips for managing them:
Diseases
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can develop on the leaves of Alchemilla rothii Oliv. when humidity levels are high. Symptoms include white or gray powdery patches on the foliage. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant by spacing plants adequately. Applying a fungicide may also help control powdery mildew.
Leaf Spot Diseases: Leaf spot diseases are caused by various fungi and bacteria that produce circular or angular spots on the leaves. These spots may be brown, black, or purple. To manage leaf spot diseases, remove and destroy affected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Water the plant at the base to keep the foliage dry. Applying a fungicide may also help prevent further spread of the disease.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants. They can cause distortion of the leaves and stunt plant growth. To manage an aphid infestation, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the insects. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can also help control them. If necessary, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plant.
Slugs and Snails: Slugs and snails can also be a problem for Alchemilla rothii Oliv. They feed on the foliage and leave large holes in the leaves. To manage these pests, remove any hiding places near the plant, such as boards or other debris. Handpicking slugs and snails is also an effective method. Additionally, applying a barrier of copper tape or crushed eggshells around the base of the plant can help deter them.
By following these tips, you can help keep Alchemilla rothii Oliv. healthy and pest-free.
