Origin
Asystasia schimperi T.Anderson var. grantii C.B.Clarke, commonly known as Grant's Asystasia, is a plant species that belongs to the Acanthaceae family. It is native to Eastern Africa, specifically in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Ethiopia.
Common Names
This plant species has different common names depending on the region. Some of its common names include Grant's Asystasia, Blue Foxglove, Gossamer-plant, Creeping foxglove, and Lilac creeping foxglove.
Uses
Asystasia schimperi T.Anderson var. grantii C.B.Clarke has been used for different purposes. Traditionally, its leaves were boiled and used to treat fever, colds, and coughs. The plant also has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that make it useful in the treatment of different skin conditions such as rashes, wounds, and burns. Recently, the plant has gained popularity as a landscape plant because of its beautiful appearance and low maintenance.
General Appearance
Grant's Asystasia is an evergreen, herbaceous, and creeping plant that grows up to 90 cm in length. It has broad, green leaves that can grow up to 7 cm long and 5 cm wide. The leaves are ovate with a pointed apex and have a rough surface. The plant produces a profusion of lilac-colored, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom continuously throughout the year. The flowers are arranged in racemes or panicles at the tips of the branches.
Growth Conditions of Asystasia schimperi T.Anderson var. grantii C.B.Clarke
Asystasia schimperi T.Anderson var. grantii C.B.Clarke is a fast-growing plant that requires specific growth conditions to thrive. Below are the essential growth conditions for this plant:
Light Requirements
The plant requires bright, indirect light to grow well. Exposure to direct sunlight can burn the leaves and stunt growth. Therefore, it should be grown in a spot that receives bright, filtered light for most of the day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures between 18°C to 24°C (65°F to 75°F). It can tolerate a minimum temperature of 10°C (50°F) but will suffer damage or die at temperatures below that. Extreme temperatures can cause the plant to stop growing or lose its leaves.
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in well-draining soil with organic matter. It should be grown in a fertile, loamy soil that holds moisture but doesn't stay soggy. The soil pH should be around 6.5 to 7.5, which is neutral to slightly acidic. The plant can cope with slightly alkaline soil but won't grow as well as in neutral to acidic soil.
Additionally, the plant requires regular feeding, especially during the growing season, to encourage healthy growth and flowering.
Therefore, providing the right light, temperature, and soil conditions, along with regular feeding, can help Asystasia schimperi T.Anderson var. grantii C.B.Clarke to grow well, thrive, and produce beautiful flowers.
Cultivation Methods
Asystasia schimperi T.Anderson var. grantii C.B.Clarke is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. It prefers a well-draining soil mix with plenty of organic matter. The ideal pH range for this plant is between 6.0 and 7.0. It can be grown in full sun or partial shade but will perform best in bright, indirect light.
Watering Needs
The plant should be watered moderately, allowing the topsoil to dry out slightly between waterings. It is essential to avoid overwatering, as Asystasia schimperi T.Anderson var. grantii C.B.Clarke can be susceptible to root rot if left in standing water.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth and blooms, the plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. It is best to avoid fertilizing in the fall and winter, when the plant is entering the dormancy period.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary, but removing spent flowers can encourage new blooms. It is also recommended to pinch back the stems periodically to promote bushier growth. If the plant becomes too leggy or overgrown, it can be trimmed back in the early spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Asystasia schimperi T.Anderson var. grantii C.B.Clarke
Asystasia schimperi T.Anderson var. grantii C.B.Clarke can be propagated by seed or vegetative means.
Seed Propagation
Seeds can be obtained by collecting the dry capsules from the plant. Once the capsules have turned brown and dry, they can be easily removed. The seeds should be cleaned and stored in a cool, dry place.
When planting the seeds, they should be sown in a well-draining soil mix, preferably during the warm months of the year. The seeds should be covered lightly with soil and watered gently. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Germination can take anywhere from two to eight weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Asystasia schimperi T.Anderson var. grantii C.B.Clarke can also be propagated vegetatively by stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the early growing season. Select a healthy stem and make a clean cut just below a node. Remove any leaves from the lower part of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. The cutting should be placed in a moist, well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm, bright location.
The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Rooting can take anywhere from two to six weeks. Once roots have formed, the cutting can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease Management for Asystasia schimperi T.Anderson var. grantii C.B.Clarke
Asystasia schimperi T.Anderson var. grantii C.B.Clarke is resistant to most diseases; however, it can sometimes be affected by fungal infections such as root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. These diseases can be managed through the following methods:
- Water management: Ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging and reduce leaf wetness. Avoid overhead watering and do not use sprinklers.
- Cultural management: Practice crop rotation and remove infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease. Proper sanitation should also be ensured by removing debris and pruning infected leaves and branches.
- Chemical management: The application of fungicides such as copper-based fungicides, sulfur, and neem oil can help control the fungal infections.
Pest Management for Asystasia schimperi T.Anderson var. grantii C.B.Clarke
Asystasia schimperi T.Anderson var. grantii C.B.Clarke can also be attacked by a few pests, including spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. Below are the ways to manage the pests:
- Biological management: Introducing predators such as ladybugs and lacewings is an excellent way to control the pest infestation.
- Cultural management: Maintaining proper sanitation practices, removing weeds, and keeping the surrounding area clean can help avoid pest infestation.
- Chemical management: The use of insecticides such as neem oil, pyrethrin, and insecticidal soap can help control the pests. However, it is essential to follow the label's instructions carefully to avoid harm to beneficial insects and pollinators.
It is crucial to identify the type of pests or diseases that are affecting the plant before applying any control measures. Early detection and proper management can help maintain the health and productivity of the Asystasia schimperi T.Anderson var. grantii C.B.Clarke.
