Overview
Anisostichus capreolata (L.) Bureau, commonly known as 'Deerhorn', is a flowering perennial plant native to South America. This plant belongs to the family of Melastomataceae and is commonly found in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
Description
The Deerhorn plant is a small, shrubby plant that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. It has simple, opposite, and elliptical leaves that are 3-6 cm long. The plant produces tiny pink to purple flowers that make up the inflorescence at the end of the stem. Moreover, the fruit of this plant is small and of a fleshy nature.
Common Names
The plant Anisostichus capreolata is known by several common names, including Deerhorn, Ojo de Vaca, Vara de San Antonio, and Pajarito.
Uses
The Anisostichus capreolata plant has been used traditionally for both medicinal and non-medicinal purposes. The leaves and stems of this plant are sometimes used in local traditional medicine to treat several ailments such as skin irritations, fever reduction, and inflammation. The plant is also used as an ornamental plant in some areas because of its beautiful flowers and foliage.
Light Requirements
Anisostichus capreolata is a plant that requires full sunlight to grow properly. This species cannot thrive in shaded or partially shaded environments. Therefore, it is crucial to grow this plant in an area where it can receive an ample amount of direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Anisostichus capreolata to grow is between 20°C to 30°C. This species can tolerate higher temperatures if the soil remains moist. However, the growth rate may be slower if the temperature exceeds the optimum range. It is also important to note that this plant cannot tolerate frost.
Soil Requirements
Anisostichus capreolata requires well-draining soils that are rich in nutrients. This species prefers slightly acidic soil, with the pH ranging between 5.5 and 7.5. The soil texture can vary, but it is essential to ensure that the soil does not remain saturated, as this can lead to root rot. Additionally, Anisostichus capreolata prefers soils with good aeration and can tolerate slight salinity.
Cultivation
The Anisostichus capreolata (L.) Bureau plant requires well-drained soil and a good amount of sunlight for optimal growth. The plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors, but it thrives well outdoors as it requires a lot of sunlight. This plant can either be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings, but stem cuttings are more preferable.
Watering needs
Watering the Anisostichus capreolata (L.) Bureau plant should be done regularly, but it should not be over-watered. Over-watering can cause the roots to rot as the plant requires well-drained soil. Watering should be done once the soil becomes slightly dry and at the base of the plant. Sprinkling water on the leaves should be avoided as this may cause the leaves to rot, which may lead to the death of the plant.
Fertilization
The Anisostichus capreolata (L.) Bureau plant requires fertilization to maintain its healthy growth. Fertilization should be done during the growing seasons, which are spring and summer. The recommended fertilizer is a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, which should be applied around the base of the plant. Over-fertilization should be avoided as it may cause damage to the plant.
Pruning
The Anisostichus capreolata (L.) Bureau plant requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, which is during winter. Dead and damaged branches should be removed using clean and sharp pruning tools. Long branches that are growing out of shape should also be trimmed to promote a bushier plant. Regular pruning will help in maintaining the size and shape of the plant, and promote healthy growth.
Propagation methods of Anisostichus capreolata (L.) Bureau
Propagation of Anisostichus capreolata can be done by seeds, cuttings or division of clumps.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Anisostichus capreolata can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors in pots. For direct sowing, the soil should be well-draining and moist. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1/4 inch and covered lightly with soil. The ideal time for sowing is during spring or summer.
If starting seeds indoors, sow them in pots filled with fertile, well-draining soil. The pots should be kept in a warm and bright location. Once the seedlings have emerged and are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted to their permanent location in the garden.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another way to propagate Anisostichus capreolata. Take cuttings from healthy plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long with several leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Then, plant the cuttings in a container filled with sterile potting soil and keep them moist and in a warm, bright location. After a few weeks, the cuttings will develop roots and can be transplanted to their permanent location in the garden.
Propagation by Division
Anisostichus capreolata can also be propagated by dividing clumps. Once the plant is established and has formed a clump, gently dig up the clump and separate it into smaller sections. Each section should have its own roots and stems. Then, transplant the sections into their permanent location in the garden and water thoroughly.
Disease Management
Anisostichus capreolata (L.) Bureau is generally a healthy plant and can resist most diseases. However, it may still be susceptible to various fungal, bacterial, and viral infections. One of the most common diseases affecting this plant is leaf spot, which usually manifests as small, brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove and dispose of infected plant debris, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides as needed. Another common disease that affects Anisostichus capreolata is powdery mildew, which can be controlled by pruning infected plant parts, improving air circulation around the plant, and applying fungicides. Regularly inspecting the plant for any signs of diseases and implementing proper sanitation measures is critical in ensuring the plant's health.
Pest Management
Various pests can infest Anisostichus capreolata, leading to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. One of the most common pests is spider mites, which feed on the plant's sap and leave webbing on the leaves. To manage mites, it is recommended to regularly check the plant for infestations and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil as needed. Another common pest is scale insects, which attach themselves to the plant's stems and leaves and suck the sap from the plant's tissues. To control scale, it is best to prune and dispose of infected parts and apply a systemic insecticide or neem oil. Aphids, mealybugs, and whiteflies are also common pests that can be controlled through regular scouting and the use of insecticidal soaps, oils, or insecticides.
