Overview: Asystasia calycina Benth.
Asystasia calycina Benth. is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Acanthaceae family. It is commonly known as Chinese violet, coromandel, and creeping foxglove. It is a perennial herb that is native to Southeast Asia, including India, Thailand, and Malaysia.
Description:
The plant of Asystasia calycina Benth. grows up to 50 centimeters tall and has a creeping habit. The leaves are simple, ovate, and opposite, with irregularly toothed margins. They are 3 to 12 centimeters long and 1.5 to 5 centimeters wide. The flowers are small, delicate, and tubular, with a purple or pink color. They are borne in clusters at the tips of the stem and branches.
Uses:
Asystasia calycina Benth. has several medicinal properties. It is used traditionally in Southeast Asia to treat various ailments such as fever, cough, and bronchitis. Its leaves are also used to alleviate diarrhea, dysentery, and constipation. It is believed to possess anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, diuretic, and analgesic properties.
The plant is also popularly cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and ease of care. It is suitable for indoor and outdoor cultivation and can be used as a ground cover or as a border plant in a garden.
Cultivation:
Asystasia calycina Benth. requires a warm and humid climate with well-draining soil. It can grow both in full sun and partial shade and prefers a slightly acidic soil. The plant can be propagated through stem cuttings or by division of its roots.
The plant is relatively low maintenance and requires occasional watering and fertilization. It is resistant to pests and diseases and can tolerate brief periods of drought.
Overall, Asystasia calycina Benth. is a versatile plant that has both medicinal and ornamental uses and is suitable for cultivation in a wide range of environments.
Growth Conditions for Asystasia calycina Benth.
Asystasia calycina Benth. or commonly known as Chinese violet is a popular ornamental plant. To achieve the optimal growth of this plant, several growth conditions must be considered. Below are the typical growth conditions required for Asystasia calycina Benth.
Light
The Chinese violet prefers a bright, indirect light or partial shade, as exposure to direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. Too little light will cause the leaves to lose their deep purple color and become green. Therefore, it is best to position the plant near a window facing the east or west direction.
Temperature
The optimal temperature range for Asystasia calycina Benth. is between 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 80°F). It is important to avoid sudden temperature fluctuations or extreme temperatures, as these can cause irreversible damage to the plant. During the winter months, the temperature should not fall below 15°C (59°F).
Soil Requirements
The Chinese violet plant prefers a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level between 6.0 to 7.0. A soil mix made of potting soil, peat moss, and perlite is suitable for this plant. It is essential to ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged, as this can cause root rot and damage to the plant.
Cultivation of Asystasia calycina Benth.
Asystasia calycina Benth. is a tropical flowering plant that grows well in warm and humid conditions. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors in areas with a minimum temperature of 16°C.
The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Using compost or well-rotted manure can help to improve the soil texture and fertility.
When planting, ensure that the root ball is level with the soil surface, and space each plant around 30cm apart.
Watering Needs of Asystasia calycina Benth.
Asystasia calycina Benth. needs moist soil to thrive, but not waterlogged conditions. Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but not saturated.
During periods of hot weather, the plant may require more frequent watering. It is best to water in the early morning or late evening to avoid unnecessary evaporation.
Fertilization of Asystasia calycina Benth.
Asystasia calycina Benth. benefit from regular applications of fertilizers that are high in potassium and phosphorus. Using a balanced fertiliser can also help to provide the plant with the necessary nutrients to promote growth and flowering.
Apply fertilisers during spring and summer to coincide with the plant's growing season. Always follow the instructions on the packaging and avoid over-fertilisation.
Pruning Asystasia calycina Benth.
Asystasia calycina Benth. can benefit from regular pruning to encourage bushy growth and promote the production of new flowers. Prune back any leggy or straggly growth, cutting back to a natural bud.
Pruning should be done during the growing season, avoiding the dormant season when the plant is not actively growing. Deadheading spent flowers can also help to prolong the flowering season.
Propagation of Asystasia calycina Benth.
Asystasia calycina Benth. can be propagated by various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Asystasia calycina Benth. can be propagated by seeds during the spring. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix and covered lightly with soil. The soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which typically takes two to three weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Cutting Propagation
Asystasia calycina Benth. can be propagated by stem cuttings. Cuttings taken during the spring or summer are best. The cuttings should be about five to seven centimeters long and taken from mature stems. Remove the lower leaves and place the cutting in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and in a warm, bright area. The cuttings should root in about four to six weeks.
Division Propagation
Asystasia calycina Benth. can also be propagated by division. This method is best done during the spring or fall. Dig up the plant and divide it into smaller sections, ensuring each section has roots attached. Replant the divisions in well-draining soil and water well.
Disease Management for Asystasia calycina Benth.
One common disease that affects Asystasia calycina Benth. is powdery mildew. This disease appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to remove any infected leaves or stems immediately. Additionally, it is recommended to reduce humidity levels around the plant by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides containing potassium bicarbonate or neem oil can also be used to manage powdery mildew.
Another disease that can affect Asystasia calycina Benth. is leaf spot. This disease presents as small, dark spots on the leaves, which can merge to form larger lesions. To manage leaf spot, it is critical to remove the infected plant parts and dispose of them. Additionally, providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent the disease. Fungicides containing copper or chlorothalonil can be used to manage leaf spot.
Pest Management for Asystasia calycina Benth.
One common pest that can affect Asystasia calycina Benth. is spider mites. These pests are tiny and difficult to see but can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is essential to monitor the plant regularly. If infestations are detected early, a strong stream of water can be used to remove the mites from the plant. Horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps can also be used to manage spider mites.
Another pest that can affect Asystasia calycina Benth. is mealybugs. These pests appear as small, fuzzy white insects on the leaves and stems of the plant and feed on the sap. To manage mealybugs, it is important to remove any infected plant parts and wipe the remaining ones with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Alternatively, insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils can also be used to manage mealybugs.
