Overview
Basananthe gossweileri (Hutch. & K.Pearce) W.J.de Wilde is a small woody plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Angola and is known for its medicinal properties.Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "Impede-Que-Corra" or "Cortina" in Angola.Appearance
Basananthe gossweileri is a small shrub that can grow up to 1 meter in height. It has a woody stem that is covered with grayish-brown bark. The leaves are simple, alternate, and oval-shaped with toothed edges. The flowers are small, yellow, and borne in clusters at the ends of the branches. The fruit is a small achene.Uses
The plant has been traditionally used by the local people of Angola for medicinal purposes. The plant is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat various ailments including rheumatism, fever, and malaria. The leaves are boiled and the resulting decoction is ingested orally. In addition, the plant is also used as firewood and for making charcoal.Light Requirements
Basananthe gossweileri prefers bright, indirect sunlight. Partial shade is also suitable for this plant. Placing it near a window with filtered light or under a shade tree outdoors is recommended. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to the tropical regions of Africa and requires a warm, humid environment to grow. A temperature range of 18-24°C (65-75°F) is ideal for Basananthe gossweileri. Low temperatures and cold drafts can harm the plant, so it's important to keep it away from drafty areas and air conditioning vents.
Soil Requirements
The soil for this plant needs to have good drainage and aeration. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal for Basananthe gossweileri. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy, and it's important to avoid over-watering, as this plant is susceptible to root rot. Fertilizing the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer can help promote healthy growth.
Cultivation
Basananthe gossweileri is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and high humidity to thrive. It grows best in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. This plant prefers a partially shaded area with bright, indirect light.
The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. If propagated from cuttings, it is advisable to use stem cuttings with at least one node.
It is important to note that Basananthe gossweileri can be sensitive to transplantation, so it is advisable to be careful when uprooting or transplanting the plant.
Watering Needs
This plant requires regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely or keeping it waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.
It is particularly essential to maintain adequate watering during the growing season when the plant needs more water to support its growth. During the dormant season, watering should be reduced to prevent over-saturation.
Fertilization
Basananthe gossweileri requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth and development. It is advisable to use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 to ensure that all essential nutrients are supplied.
The plant should be fertilized every two to four weeks during the growing season, and the frequency should be reduced during the dormant period. It is important to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to salt build-up in the soil, as well as plant damage.
Pruning
Regular pruning is necessary to maintain the plant's shape and promote healthy growth. It is advisable to prune Basananthe gossweileri in the early spring before the growing season begins.
The plant should be pruned lightly to remove dead or damaged leaves, as well as to rebalance the plant's growth. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant's foliage at a time, as this can be detrimental to the plant's health.
Additionally, removing spent flowers and seed pods can help to promote new growth and prolong the flowering season.
Propagation of Basananthe Gossweileri
Basananthe gossweileri, commonly known as Gossweiler's Spike Thorn, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Rhamnaceae. This plant is popular for its thorny stems and beautiful flowers. Propagation of this plant can be done through seeds or stem cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is the easiest and most common method for Basananthe gossweileri. Collect the seeds from the dry fruits of the plant after they have fallen naturally from the plant. Place the seeds in a well-draining soil mix in a pot. Water the pot regularly and ensure it is kept moist, but avoid over-watering as the seeds may rot. The ideal temperature for germination is between 20-25°C. Germination may take a few weeks, and once the seedlings have formed two to three leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings can also be done successfully with Basananthe gossweileri. Take healthy stem cuttings during early spring or summer, ensuring each cutting contains a node. Remove the lower leaves from the stem and dip the cutting in rooting hormone powder. Insert the cutting into a well-draining soil mix and water regularly. Keep the soil moist but not too wet, as the cuttings may rot. Place the cutting in a warm, bright location, but out of direct sunlight. Root formation may take several weeks, and once roots have formed, the plant can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Disease Management
Basananthe gossweileri is a relatively disease-resistant plant and rarely affected by serious diseases. However, certain environmental factors like excessive moisture or poor drainage can cause fungal or bacterial infections to develop.
One of the most common diseases that affect this plant is leaf spot, which causes small, dark-colored spots on the leaves. To control it, remove infected plant parts and avoid overwatering. A copper-based fungicide can be used as a treatment in severe cases.
Another disease that can affect this plant is powdery mildew, which appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To control it, remove infected plant parts and improve air circulation around the plant. Fungicides containing sulfur or potassium bicarbonate can also be used for treatment.
Pest Management
Although Basananthe gossweileri is not commonly affected by pests, some insect pests can attack this plant, causing damage to the leaves or flowers.
One common pest that affects this plant is aphids, which can cause leaf distortion and stunted growth. To control aphids, remove them by hand or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Another pest that can attack this plant is spider mites, which cause a web-like covering over the leaves and cause them to turn yellow or brown. To control spider mites, clean the leaves with a damp cloth and spray with insecticidal soap.
Regularly inspecting the plant and maintaining proper cultural practices like watering, fertilization, and pruning can help prevent disease and pest infestations on Basananthe gossweileri.
