Origin
Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore, also known as thorny amphoranthus, is a species of plant that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is native to Africa, specifically found in countries like Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
Common Names
Aside from thorny amphoranthus, Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore is also commonly referred to as spiny amphoranthus.
Appearance
Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore is a woody perennial plant that grows up to 1.5 meters in height. Its stems are densely covered in sharp thorns or spines, which contribute to its common name. The plant’s leaves are arranged alternately, and its flowers grow in clusters that are composed of several smaller flowers. The flowers are small, pale yellow, and star-shaped, with a diameter of approximately 1 cm. The plant bears fruit that is similar in appearance to a small eggplant, measuring up to 1.5 cm long. The fruit has a hard shell and contains several seeds.
Uses
The thorny amphoranthus has a variety of traditional medicinal uses. In parts of Africa, the plant is used to treat ailments like diarrhea, stomach aches, and fever. It is also used as a remedy for snakebites, insect stings, and scorpion stings. Additionally, the plant is used for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. Outside of medicinal use, the thorny amphoranthus is not commonly cultivated or grown for other purposes.
Light Requirements
Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore prefers moderate levels of sunlight. While it can tolerate partial shade, it grows best when exposed to bright, indirect light. Direct exposure to sunlight can be harmful to its leaves, therefore, it should be placed in an area where it can be protected from harsh sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore is a tropical plant that prefers warm temperatures. It can tolerate a temperature range of 18 °C to 30 °C (64 °F to 86 °F) but prefers a temperature range of 21 °C to 27 °C (70 °F to 80 °F). Additionally, it should be protected from cold drafts as this can stunt or damage its growth.
Soil Requirements
Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5 to 6.5. To achieve the ideal soil mix, a combination of peat moss, perlite and coarse sand or vermiculite can be used. Additionally, the plant benefits from occasional fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to support its growth.
Cultivation
Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore can be cultivated indoors or outdoors, provided that it is grown in moist, well-draining soil. It is important to ensure that the soil is slightly acidic with a pH level of between 5.5 and 6.5.
This plant can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. However, too much direct sunlight can cause its leaves to burn. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in a spot where it can receive filtered light or morning sun.
For outdoor cultivation in areas experiencing frost, it is preferable to plant Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore in a container that can then be brought indoors during cold seasons.
Watering needs
Watering Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore is very important for its healthy growth and survival. This plant should be watered regularly, but not too frequently. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases that can kill the plant.
It is recommended to water the plant once a week in moderate amounts, and the frequency should be reduced during the winter season.
One way to check if the plant needs water is by sticking a finger into the soil. If it feels dry to the touch, then it is time to water the plant.
Fertilization
Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore requires fertilization to grow healthy and robust. The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season, which lasts from spring through early autumn.
A balanced fertilizer that contains equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is suitable for this plant. Slow-release fertilizers can be used, ensuring that they are evenly distributed around the plant's drip line and then watered well.
During the winter season, fertilization should be reduced or stopped altogether, as the plant's growth slows down during this period.
Pruning
Pruning Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore is not necessary, but it can be performed to control the plant's size and shape. Pruning should be done during the growing season, as the plant's growth is at its maximum during this period.
Dead and yellowing leaves should be removed as soon as they appear, as they can attract pests and diseases.
To shape the plant, it is recommended to trim the tips of the stems. Cutting back one-third of the plant's size is enough to promote bushier growth. However, it is important not to cut the plant back too severely, as this can cause stress and damage to the plant.
Propagation of Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore
Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore is commonly known as the Spiny Amphoranthus or Spiny Kokoona, which is a tropical plant endemic to West Africa. The plant belongs to the family Rubiaceae and is usually grown for its highly ornamental foliage and vibrant flowers. Propagation of this plant can be done through several methods, which include:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagation for Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore is through seed propagation. The plant produces small, black seeds that can be collected and sown directly into seed trays. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix, preferably one that is rich in organic matter. The seed trays should be kept moist and in a warm, brightly lit location until germination occurs, which usually takes 2-3 weeks. After germination, the seedlings should be transplanted into individual pots and grown on until they are large enough to be planted in their final location.
Cutting Propagation
Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore can also be propagated through stem cuttings. This method involves taking a cutting from the parent plant and rooting it in a propagation mix. Cuttings should be taken from the parent plant during the growth season when the plant is actively producing new shoots. The cuttings should be around 10-15cm in length and should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. Once the cuttings have been taken, the lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in a propagating mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a warm, brightly lit location until roots have formed, which usually takes 4-6 weeks. Once roots have formed, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots and grown on until they are large enough to be planted in their final location.
Division Propagation
Propagation of Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore can also be achieved through plant division. This method involves taking a healthy plant and dividing it into smaller sections. The plant should be carefully dug up, and the individual sections should be separated from the parent plant, ensuring that each section has a healthy root system. The smaller sections can then be planted directly into their final location or potted up and grown on until they are large enough to be planted.
Disease Management for Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore
Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore is generally resistant to diseases. However, it can still be susceptible to certain fungal and bacterial infections. The following are common diseases that might affect this plant:
- Leaf spot: Caused by fungi, this disease starts by creating small brown spots on the leaves, which can eventually expand and merge, leading to defoliation. To manage this disease, infected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and the use of fungicides can be applied.
- Anthracnose: It is caused by fungi and affects the stems, fruits, and leaves of the plant. Symptoms include small, circular, sunken spots with reddish-brown edges. Use of fungicides can help control Anthracnose.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant which results in the decay of the roots. Symptoms are wilting, yellowing leaves and stunted growth. To manage this disease, reduce watering and use well-draining soil.
Pest Management for Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore
Like diseases, Amphoranthus spinosus S.Moore is relatively resistant to pests. Despite that, there are still some common pests that can infest this plant, which include:
- Scale insects: These pests appear as brown or gray bumps on the leaves, stems, and branches. They suck on the sap of the plant and excrete honeydew, attracting ants and other insects. Remove them with a scrub brush or spray them with neem oil.
- Spider mites: These pests are too small to see with the naked eye and can spin webs on the leaves of the plant. They cause yellowing and sometimes, browning of leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage spider mites.
- Caterpillars: The larvae of moths or butterflies chew on leaves and damage the plant. They can be managed by picking them off by hand or by using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray.
- Mealybugs: These pests look like white cottony masses and are often found in the crevices of the leaves and stems. They suck the sap of the plant and excrete honeydew. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them.
