Overview: Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu
Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the plant family Acanthaceae. It is a small herbaceous plant that is native to Ethiopia and was discovered in the late 1990s by botanist Dr. Ensermu Kelbessa. It has since been named after her.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "Ensermu’s asystasia" after its discoverer, Dr. Ensermu Kelbessa. It is also known as "yellow foxglove" due to its elongated, tubular, bright yellow flowers that resemble those of the foxglove plant.
General Appearance
The Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu plant is a small, upright herbaceous plant that grows to a height of 30-60 cm. The leaves are simple, opposite, and have a length of about 7-12 cm. The leaves are oval or elliptic in shape, and are dark green in color. The stem is erect, and the plant produces large numbers of bright yellow flowers in clusters at the top of the stem. The flowers are tubular, and have a length of around 3-4 cm.
Uses
Although there is not much research on the potential uses of this plant, it has been traditionally used by local communities for medicinal purposes. It is believed that the plant has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and can be used to treat various ailments, including stomach-ache, fever, and wounds. The leaves of the plant can also be used to make a herbal tea, which is believed to have healing properties.
Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a cut flower due to its attractive, bright yellow flowers.
Light Requirements
The Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu plant prefers to grow in bright but indirect light. It cannot withstand prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, so it is essential to place the plant in filtered shade or a well-lit room. Placing the plant near an east-facing window can provide optimal light conditions for its growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm to hot temperatures. The ideal temperature range for growing Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu is between 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C). Temperatures below 55°F (12°C) or above 90°F (32°C) can cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu prefers well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. Adding organic matter like compost or peat moss can improve the soil's fertility and nutrient content, which can help the plant grow and thrive.
Cultivation of Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu
Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu is a tropical plant that prefers warm and humid conditions. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, depending on the climate of the region. In areas with cooler climates, it is advisable to grow it indoors in a greenhouse or under grow lights.
The plant requires well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. The soil should be rich in nutrients and have a good water-holding capacity. It is recommended to mix compost, perlite, and peat moss to improve the soil structure and increase its water-holding capacity.
Watering Needs
Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu prefers consistent moisture levels in its soil, but it is essential to avoid overwatering as it may lead to root rot. The plant should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry. It is recommended to water moderately and allow the excess water to drain out of the pot's bottom.
If grown in a humid environment, the plant may require less watering, while the opposite is true for plants grown in dry areas. The plant leaves may droop if it lacks water, but they will recover if it is adequately watered.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization to keep it healthy and promote growth. It is recommended to fertilize every two weeks during the growing season, using a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20.
It is advisable to reduce the frequency of fertilization during the winter months as the plant's growth slows down. Over-fertilization may lead to the accumulation of salts in the soil, which can damage the plant's roots.
Pruning
Pruning Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu is essential to maintain its shape and remove any dead or diseased parts. It is recommended to prune during the plant's active growing season to encourage bushy growth.
The plant can be pruned to control its height, and the stem tips can be pinched to encourage branching. Pruning should be done using clean, sharp tools to minimize damage to the plant.
Propagation of Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu
Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu can be propagated through several methods, including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu can be collected from mature plants and sown in a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be top-sown and lightly covered with the potting mix. Keep the mix moist, but not waterlogged, and place the pot in a warm and bright location. The seeds should germinate within a few weeks, and once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are another effective method of propagating Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu. Take cuttings from young and healthy stems, making sure each cutting has at least one node and a few leaves. Strip the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist and warm until roots develop, which usually takes a few weeks. Once the cutting has rooted, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or into the garden.
Division
Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu can also be propagated through division. This method is best for older plants that have developed multiple stems. Carefully dig up the plant and separate the stems and their attached roots. Plant each division in a well-draining potting mix and water thoroughly. Keep the transplanted divisions in a shaded location until they have established new roots and are actively growing.
Disease Management
Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu is prone to several diseases that can affect its growth and overall health. Treating these diseases is crucial to ensure that the plants are healthy and productive. Some of the common plant diseases that can affect Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu are:
- Leaf spot disease
- Mildew
- Root rot
To manage these diseases, it is essential to use a combination of both chemical and non-chemical methods. Use fungicides or bactericides that are approved for use on Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu. Regularly check the plants for symptoms of diseases and remove any infected leaves. Providing adequate drainage, proper air circulation, and fertilization can also help in preventing diseases in plants.
Pest Management
Asystasia richardsiae Ensermu is also prone to several pests that can damage the plants. These pests can be eliminated through various methods such as:
- Whiteflies:
- Spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Use yellow sticky cards to trap whiteflies.
- Aphids:
- Spray the plants with a solution of soap and water.
- Use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars:
- Handpick and destroy them.
- Spray the plants with Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis), which is a natural biological control.
Regularly inspect the plants for any signs of infestation and take proactive measures to prevent pest problems from developing.
