Origin
Aspalathus angustifolia (Lam.) R.Dahlgren subsp. angustifolia, commonly known as Cape rooibos or nortier rooibos, is a species of flowering plant in the legume family Fabaceae, endemic to South Africa. It is mainly found in the Western Cape region.
Common names
The plant is known by several common names, including Cape rooibos, nortier rooibos, narrow-leaved rooibos, and tea bush.
Uses
Aspalathus angustifolia subsp. angustifolia is primarily grown and consumed for its medicinal properties. Rooibos tea, made from the plant's leaves, contains antioxidants and is used to treat various ailments such as allergies, skin problems, and digestive issues. It is also used as a calming agent and as a sleep aid.
Outside of its medicinal uses, the plant is also cultivated for its commercial value, with rooibos tea being a popular and profitable export crop for South Africa.
General appearance
Aspalathus angustifolia subsp. angustifolia is a small shrub that typically grows to a height of 1–2 m. It has thin, needle-like leaves that are bright green in color and measure about 15 mm in length. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that bloom in late summer and early autumn. The fruit produced is a small pod, roughly 5–8 mm in length, which contains several seeds.
The appearance and growth pattern of Aspalathus angustifolia subsp. angustifolia is similar to other species of rooibos tea, such as Aspalathus linearis. However, it can be distinguished by its narrower leaves and smaller fruits.
Light Requirements
Aspalathus angustifolia subsp. angustifolia grows best under full sun exposure. It can tolerate partial shade, but this may result in slower growth and reduced yield.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm temperature conditions. It can tolerate a maximum temperature of up to 40°C. During the winter season, the plant can withstand temperatures as low as -1°C. However, it may go dormant during this period and resume growth in the following spring season.
Soil Requirements
Aspalathus angustifolia subsp. angustifolia prefers well-drained sandy soils rich in organic matter. It does not grow well in heavy clay soils and poorly drained areas. The plant also requires slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5.
Additionally, the plant is adapted to grow in nutrient-poor soils and can tolerate drought conditions due to its long taproots.
Cultivation methods
Aspalathus angustifolia (Lam.) R.Dahlgren subsp. angustifolia, commonly known as Cape Rooibos, is a shrub that belongs to the pea family and is native to South Africa. It is an evergreen shrub that can reach a height of 1.5-2m. It prefers well-drained, acidic soils and is well-suited for cultivation in tropical and subtropical regions.
Cape Rooibos can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings. Seedlings are usually transplanted when they are six months old and have grown up to 15cm. The plant requires full sunlight to grow, and space for proper growth should be provided depending on the expected height the shrub will reach.
Watering needs
Cape Rooibos requires frequent watering to survive, especially during the early stages of growth. However, overwatering can lead to root rot. Ensure you maintain a regular watering schedule during the first few months of planting to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. When the shrub matures, reduce the frequency of watering as the established root system is capable of withstanding mild drought conditions.
Fertilization
To ensure healthy and fast growth, it is advisable to fertilize Cape Rooibos during the early to mid-growth stage using a balanced fertilizer with equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. NPK levels of 12:5:15 are suitable for this shrub. Fertilization should be done twice a year, at the beginning of summer and towards the end of winter. This helps the plant produce abundant glossy leaves, vigorous growth and increased number of flowers.
Pruning
Cape Rooibos requires moderate to light pruning, especially for shaping and maintaining its compactness. Typically, pruning is done during the dormant period, towards the end of winter. Old branches and any damaged or diseased wood should be removed. Deadheading or cutting off the spent blooms is advised as it stimulates another flowering cycle. However, avoid heavy pruning as this may damage the plant and interfere with its growth and flowering.
With proper cultivation and care, Aspalathus angustifolia (Lam.) R.Dahlgren subsp. angustifolia can be an excellent addition to any garden or landscape as well as a source of tea rich in antioxidants and various minerals.
Propagation of Aspalathus angustifolia (Lam.) R.Dahlgren subsp. angustifolia
There are different methods to propagate Aspalathus angustifolia, and the most common include seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed propagation
The seeds of Aspalathus angustifolia are small, and they should be collected when they are ripe. The best time to collect the seeds is when the pods start to dry and turn brown, as this indicates that the seeds are ready to be harvested.
Once the seeds have been collected, they should be stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready to be planted. Before planting, the seeds should be scarified to break the hard outer coating and allow water to penetrate the seed. Scarification can be done mechanically or by soaking the seeds in hot water for a few hours.
Plant the scarified seeds in a well-draining soil mix, and keep them moist. Germination may take several weeks, but once the seedlings have developed two to three sets of leaves, they can be transplanted to individual pots.
Vegetative propagation
Aspalathus angustifolia can also be propagated vegetatively from stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring when new growth appears.
Select a healthy stem, and using a sharp knife, cut off a section that is about 10-15 cm long. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem, leaving only a few leaves at the top.
Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder, and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Water them thoroughly, and cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Once roots have formed, the cuttings can be transplanted to individual pots.
Disease and Pest Management for Aspalathus angustifolia (Lam.) R.Dahlgren subsp. angustifolia
Aspalathus angustifolia (Lam.) R.Dahlgren subsp. angustifolia, also known as Cape Rooibos, is a plant native to South Africa and is highly valued for its medicinal properties and as a herbal tea. However, like other plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Aspalathus angustifolia:
Diseases
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that can affect Aspalathus angustifolia. It is caused by over-watering or poorly drained soil. To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid over-watering the plant.
Mould: Mould is a fungal disease that can occur in humid or damp conditions. To prevent mould, ensure proper ventilation and avoid over-watering.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove the affected leaves and avoid overhead watering.
Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are common pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing damage and discoloration. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a high-pressure water hose and introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
Thrips: Thrips are small insects that feed on the leaves and flowers, causing damage and discoloration. To manage thrips, spray the plant with neem oil or introduce natural predators like lacewings.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small insects that produce a sticky substance and cause damage and discoloration. To manage mealybugs, remove the affected leaves and spray the plant with soapy water or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
Regular monitoring and timely action can prevent the spread of diseases and pests and ensure a healthy and thriving Aspalathus angustifolia (Lam.) R.Dahlgren subsp. angustifolia plant.
