Overview of Asystasia Charmian S.Moore:
Asystasia Charmian S.Moore, also known as Asystasia gangetica, is a species of plant in the Acanthaceae family. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including India, Malaysia, and Vietnam, and is commonly found in grasslands, along roadsides, and on riverbanks.
Common Names:
Asystasia Charmian S.Moore is also commonly known as Chinese violet, coromandel, creeping foxglove, and river foxglove.
Uses:
Asystasia Charmian S.Moore has various uses in traditional medicine. In India, the whole plant is used to treat fever, cough, and colds, while the roots are used to treat snake bites and scorpion stings. The leaves are used as a poultice for wounds and skin diseases.
The plant is also used for ornamental purposes, as it produces beautiful violet flowers throughout the year. It is an excellent groundcover and is known for its ability to stabilize soil on riverbanks and steep slopes.
General Appearance:
Asystasia Charmian S.Moore is a fast-growing, semi-evergreen plant that can reach up to 50 cm in height. It has oval-shaped leaves with pointed tips that are 4-8 cm long and 2-4 cm wide. The leaves are arranged oppositely on the stem and have smooth margins.
The plant produces long, thin stems that creep along the ground, forming a dense mat of foliage. The stems produce clusters of small, tubular violet flowers with white throats, which bloom throughout the year. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade, but can also tolerate full sun and a range of soil conditions.
Light Conditions
The Asystasia charmian S.Moore prefers a bright and sunny location to grow well. It can also tolerate partial shade but requires at least 4-5 hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures and prefers a range of 60 to 80°F (15 to 27°C). It cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures and should be kept away from cold drafts.
Soil Requirements
Asystasia charmian S.Moore requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. A pH range of 6.0-7.5 is optimal for the plant's growth. The addition of compost or other organic matter increases the fertility of the soil.
Cultivation
The Asystasia charmian S.Moore plant is a hardy, low-maintenance plant that does well in both indoor and outdoor environments. It thrives in well-draining soil enriched with organic matter, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level of 6-7.5.
When planting, ensure that the root ball is not buried too deeply. The plant should be at the same level as the soil surface. Water thoroughly after planting to help the soil settle around the roots.
Provide the plant with a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight for most of the day. It can also tolerate partial shade if necessary.
Watering Needs
Asystasia charmian S.Moore enjoys moderate watering. Water the plant thoroughly but allow the soil to dry partially before watering again. Over-watering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
In addition to regular watering, this plant prefers high humidity environments. You can meet its humidity requirements by placing a humidity tray near the plant or by misting frequently with room-temperature water.
Fertilization
Fertilize the Asystasia charmian S.Moore plant monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months, as the plant's growth slows down during this time.
The application of organic matter such as compost or worm castings can help to improve soil fertility and reduce the need for artificial fertilizer.
Pruning
Pruning the Asystasia charmian S.Moore plant is not essential for its growth and development. However, it may help to promote branching and a fuller growth habit.
To prune, use a pair of clean, sharp pruning shears and cut back any overgrown or leggy stems to promote a more compact shape. It is best to avoid pruning during the winter months.
Propagation of Asystasia charmian S.Moore
Asystasia charmian S.Moore, commonly known as the Nigerian Star Flower, can be propagated by various methods including:
Seed propagation
The plant produces tiny black seeds that can be collected and sowed in a well-draining soil mix. It's essential to cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep the soil moist until germination occurs. Germination usually takes place within 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots once they develop their third or fourth true leaves.
Cutting propagation
Asystasia charmian S.Moore can also be propagated by cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch long cutting from a healthy and mature plant, remove the leaves from the bottom 1-2 inches of the stem, dip the cut end into rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a warm and bright location but away from direct sunlight. After a few weeks, the cutting should have developed roots and can be transplanted to individual pots.
Division propagation
The Nigerian Star Flower can also be propagated by division. Dig out a clump of the mature plant and gently remove the soil around it. Use a sharp and sterilized knife or a spade to divide the clump into smaller sections, each with an adequate number of roots and shoots. Plant each section into a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist. The transplanted divisions will start growing in a few weeks.
Disease Management:
Asystasia charmian S. Moore, commonly knows as Asystasia, is generally a healthy plant and not vulnerable to many diseases. However, some common diseases that might affect the plant include:
- Leaf Spot Disease: This disease is caused by a fungus and can cause small brown or black spots on the leaves. The spots can enlarge and merge, leading to the death of the entire leaf. To manage this disease, one should remove and destroy the infected leaves. Apply a copper-based fungicide to the plant to reduce the spread of the disease.
- Rust: Rust appears as yellow or orange spots on the leaves and stems. It is caused by a fungal infection, and it can lead to the leaves' defoliation. To manage rust, apply a copper-based fungicide to the plant regularly. Prune and destroy any infected leaves promptly.
- Phytophthora root rot: Phytophthora root rot is caused by a soil-borne fungal pathogen. It can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves, leading to plant death. To control the disease, plant the Asystasia in well-draining soil. Do not overwater the plant, and avoid wetting the leaves excessively. Remove and destroy any infected plants promptly.
Pest Management:
Asystasia charmian S. Moore is also not vulnerable to many pests. However, here are a few common pests that might affect the plant:
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the Asystasia's leaves, causing them to look yellow and mottled. To manage an infestation of spider mites, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Remove and destroy any affected leaves if the infestation is severe.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are fluffy white pests that suck sap from Asystasia leaves. To manage an infestation of mealybugs, rinse the leaves with a strong spray of water to remove the insects. Use a solution of rubbing alcohol and water to remove any remaining mealybugs. Repeat the process until the infestation is under control.
- Aphids: Aphids are a common pest that can cause stunted growth and curled leaves on the Asystasia. To control an aphid infestation, spray the plant with an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs to the area, as they feed on aphids.
