Plant Description:
Astripomoea lachnosperma, also known as Choisy's Astripomoea, is an ornamental liana or woody vine found in South America. This plant belongs to the family Convolvulaceae, which includes other well-known flowering plants such as morning glories and sweet potatoes.
General Appearance:
The plant produces trailing stems that can grow over 7 meters in length and attach themselves to supports by twining around them. The leaves are simple, alternate, and heart-shaped with small hairs on their surface. The flowers are funnel-shaped, pink or white, grow in clusters at nodes, and produce fruits that are globose capsules filled with small seeds.
Common Names:
Some common names for Astripomoea lachnosperma include Choisy's Astripomoea, bombe vine, and tariricú de sabana.
Uses:
Astripomoea lachnosperma is cultivated as an ornamental plant and used to decorate walls, pergolas, and fences due to its attractive foliage and delicate flowers. The plant is also used in traditional medicine in South America to treat digestive, respiratory, and skin disorders.
Light Requirements
Astripomoea lachnosperma typically grows in full sun or partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. Lack of sunlight may lead to stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Astripomoea lachnosperma can adapt to a range of temperatures, but it prefers warm to hot climates. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 20°C and 35°C. It can withstand occasional dips in temperatures but cannot survive frost.
Soil Requirements
Astripomoea lachnosperma thrives best in well-draining, fertile soil. It can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and laterite soils. However, it cannot tolerate waterlogged soil, which can lead to root rot.
The soil should have a pH level between 5.5 and 7.5. It is best to incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil before planting to improve its fertility and drainage.
Cultivation of Astripomoea lachnosperma
Astripomoea lachnosperma requires warm and humid conditions for healthy growth. It is recommended to plant this species in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. You may also opt for a soil mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite to aid in drainage. This plant can be propagated through stem cuttings or by dividing plant clusters. Make sure that the cuttings or divisions have at least two nodes for successful propagation.
Watering Needs
During active growth, water the plant frequently to keep the soil moist. However, over-watering may lead to root rot, so make sure that the soil is not waterlogged. Once the plant has reached maturity, watering can be reduced, but it should never be allowed to completely dry out. The frequency of watering will differ according to factors such as humidity, temperature, and soil type.
Fertilization
It is recommended to fertilize Astripomoea lachnosperma during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer every two weeks. You may also use a slow-release fertilizer that will gradually release nutrients over a more extended period. During the dormant season, fertilize sparingly or not at all. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this may lead to salt buildup in the soil.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and health of the plant. Astripomoea lachnosperma can be pruned throughout the year, and it is recommended to prune back any dead or damaged growth to promote new growth. You can also prune to shape the plant or to remove any excessive growth. When pruning, use a clean, sharp pair of shears or scissors to prevent any damage or disease to the plant.
Propagation of Astripomoea lachnosperma (Choisy) A.Meeuse
Astripomoea lachnosperma (Choisy) A.Meeuse is commonly propagated through seed or stem cutting.
Propagation through seed
Seeds of Astripomoea lachnosperma can be collected from mature fruits and sown immediately. The seeds should be placed in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until they germinate. It usually takes 1-2 weeks for the seedlings to emerge. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots with a nutrient-rich potting mixture. The plants can be gradually acclimated to direct sunlight and outdoor conditions as they grow.
Propagation through stem cutting
Stem cuttings are usually taken from the mature plant during the growing season. Cuttings with at least 2-3 nodes will root more quickly than single-node cuttings. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches in length and the leaves on the lower part of the stem should be removed. The stems can be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining potting mixture or vermiculite. It is recommended to keep the cuttings in a warm, humid environment (with appropriate misting), until new growth emerges. Once the cuttings have established roots and new growth has emerged, they can be transplanted into individual pots filled with a nutrient-rich potting mixture and gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions.
Disease and Pest Management for Astripomoea lachnosperma
Astripomoea lachnosperma, commonly known as the woolly-seed morning glory, is a robust climber that belongs to the family Convolvulaceae. It is a flowering plant that is popularly grown in gardens, containers, and hanging baskets for its ornamental value.
Common Diseases
The woolly-seed morning glory is generally a hardy plant that is resistant to many diseases. However, it can be affected by a few diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot.
- Powdery Mildew - This fungal disease is characterized by the formation of a white powdery coating on the plant's leaves and stems. It can cause leaf yellowing, premature leaf drop, and stunted growth. To manage powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering, provide good air circulation, and remove infected leaves and stems. You can also apply fungicides to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Rust - This fungal disease is characterized by the formation of rusty-brown spots on the plant's leaves. It can cause leaf yellowing, premature leaf drop, and stunted growth. To manage rust, prune and discard infected parts of the plant, apply fungicides, and prevent overcrowding by maintaining proper plant spacing.
- Leaf Spot - This bacterial disease is characterized by the formation of dark spots on the plant's leaves. It can cause leaf yellowing, premature leaf drop, and stunted growth. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and stems, apply bactericides, and avoid overhead watering.
Common Pests
The woolly-seed morning glory can also be affected by a few common pests, including spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids.
- Spider Mites - These tiny pests suck the plant's sap, causing it to yellow and wilt. You may notice the presence of fine webbing on the infected leaves. To manage spider mites, wash the plant regularly with a strong jet of water and apply insecticidal soap.
- Whiteflies - These tiny, white insects feed on the plant's sap, causing leaf yellowing, stunted growth, and premature leaf drop. To manage whiteflies, wash the plant regularly with a strong jet of water, apply insecticidal soap, or use sticky traps.
- Aphids - These small insects suck the plant's sap, causing it to wilt and deform. You may notice the presence of sticky honeydew on the infected leaves. To manage aphids, wash the plant regularly with a strong jet of water, apply insecticidal soap, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs.
By following these disease and pest management practices, you can help ensure the health and longevity of your Astripomoea lachnosperma plants.
