Origin
Bastardia viscosa (L.) Kunth var. viscosa is a perennial plant that is native to North and South America, specifically in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay, and the United States.
Common Names
Some common names for Bastardia viscosa include "sticky bastardia," "denseflower bastardia," and "sticky bastardia".
Uses
Bastardia viscosa has been used by indigenous people for its medicinal properties. In Argentina, it is used as a digestive aid and a treatment for skin conditions. In Brazil, it is used to treat respiratory ailments, such as asthma and bronchitis. The plant is also used as an ornamental plant in some parts of the world.
General Appearance
Bastardia viscosa is a shrub that typically grows up to 2 meters (6.5 feet) tall. It has woody stems and thick, leathery leaves that are green on top and lighter on the underside. The plant produces small, yellowish-white flowers that grow in clusters. The fruit of the plant is a small, oval-shaped capsule that contains numerous small, black seeds. The plant gets its common name, "sticky bastardia," from the sticky, resinous substance that covers its stems and leaves.
Growth Conditions for Bastardia Viscosa
Bastardia Viscosa (L.) Kunth var. viscosa, also known as sticky bastardia, is a native plant of North America. This herbaceous plant belongs to the family Melastomataceae and grows up to 1.5 meters tall in favorable conditions. Below are details about the typical growth conditions that support the growth of Bastardia viscosa.
Light
Bastardia viscosa thrives in areas with bright indirect sunlight or partial sunlight. The plant requires natural light to produce energy through photosynthesis, but prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can scorch and damage the leaves. Therefore, it is best to grow it in an area where it can receive sufficient but not excessive light.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Bastardia viscosa is between 18°C to 30°C. Cool temperatures below 5°C and frost can be detrimental to the plant's growth and may cause considerable damage. At the same time, excessive heat above 40°C and prolonged exposure to drought can lead to stunted growth or even death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Bastardia viscosa prefers well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant thrives in fertile soils rich in organic matter, capable of retaining water and nutrients. Heavy soils with poor drainage are not suitable for the growth of this plant as they can lead to root rot. Therefore, it is essential to plant Bastardia viscosa in well-draining potting soil that is moist but not waterlogged.
In conclusion, proper attention to light, temperature, and soil conditions is essential for growing healthy Bastardia viscosa plants. Following these guidelines will help support the growth and development of this beautiful herbaceous plant.
Cultivation Methods
Bastardia viscosa (L.) Kunth var. viscosa can be grown both in containers and on the ground. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil types but requires well-draining soil. Inadequate drainage can result in root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
The plant prefers a sunny to partially shaded location. It grows well in tropical climates and requires minimal maintenance.
Watering Needs
Bastardia viscosa (L.) Kunth var. viscosa requires regular watering during its growing season. In the absence of rainfall, water the plant once a week, ensuring that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
During the winter months, which is typically the plant's dormant season, reduce watering to once every two weeks. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization
To encourage healthy growth and flowering, fertilize Bastardia viscosa (L.) Kunth var. viscosa with a balanced organic fertilizer every six months. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Bastardia viscosa (L.) Kunth var. viscosa requires minimal pruning. Deadheading spent flowers will encourage additional blooms. Prune the plant occasionally to remove dead or diseased branches and to promote growth in desired areas.
When pruning, use clean and sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. The best time to prune is during the dormant season. Avoid pruning during the growing season, as this can stimulate new growth that may not have time to harden off before winter.
Propagation of Bastardia Viscosa (L.) Kunth var. Viscosa
The plant Bastardia viscosa (L.) Kunth var. viscosa can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division. The choice of propagation method largely depends on the available resources, expertise, and time frame.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation of Bastardia viscosa (L.) Kunth var. viscosa through seeds is the most commonly used method. The seeds can be sown directly in the potting mix or in the soil with proper care. Seeds require proper moisture and humidity levels to germinate. The optimum temperature range for seed germination is between 20-25°C. It takes about 4-6 weeks for the seeds to germinate and develop the first set of true leaves. The seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots once they develop a strong root system and start growing vigorously.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation of Bastardia viscosa (L.) Kunth var. viscosa can also be done through cuttings. Cuttings can be taken from the mother plant during the growing season. The cuttings should have a minimum of 2-3 nodes and about 10-15 cm long. The leaves on the lower end of the stem should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in a rooting agent before planting in the soil. The soil should be moist and well-draining. The cuttings should be placed in a warm and humid environment with bright, indirect light. The cuttings take about 3-4 weeks to develop roots and start growing.
Propagation through Division
Bastardia viscosa (L.) Kunth var. viscosa can also be propagated through division. The plant should be carefully dug up and the root ball should be separated into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one growth point. The divided sections should be planted in the soil and watered thoroughly. The plant should be placed in a warm and humid environment with bright, indirect light. The plant usually takes about 2-3 weeks to develop roots and start growing.
Disease and Pest Management for Bastardia Viscosa
Bastardia viscosa (L.) Kunth var. viscosa, commonly known as sticky bastardsword, is a tropical plant that belongs to the family Malvaceae. Despite its hardiness, the plant is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that may affect its growth and development. Therefore, it is essential to adopt appropriate management techniques to prevent or control these problems.
Common Diseases
Bastardia viscosa is prone to fungal diseases, including leaf spots, rusts, powdery mildew, and anthracnose. Leaf spots manifest as small, brownish-black spots on the leaves, while rusts appear as orange or reddish pustules on the leaves or stems. Powdery mildew is a white, powdery substance that covers the entire plant surface, while anthracnose causes the foliage to wilt and fall off the plant.
Pest Management Techniques
Bastardia viscosa is not only susceptible to fungal diseases but also prone to insect pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scales. Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that suck sap from the plant, causing leaf curling and yellowing. Spider mites suck plant juices, leaving behind a stippled or mottled appearance on the leaves. Scale insects, on the other hand, appear as small, circular armored bumps on the stem. They also suck sap, causing leaf yellowing and drop-off.
To manage fungal diseases, it is advisable to use a fungicide spray. Apply the spray in the morning or late afternoon, ensuring that it penetrates the leaves and stems. Also, ensure that you water the plant adequately to prevent moisture buildup, which encourages fungal growth. Remove infected leaves and dispose of them to prevent further spread.
To control mealybugs, spider mites, and scales, use insecticides. Neem oil is an effective natural insecticide that not only kills the pests but also prevents future infestations. Apply the oil using a spray bottle, making sure that you cover the entire plant surface. You can also use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. For optimal results, apply the insecticide every two to three weeks.
In conclusion, Bastardia viscosa is a hardy tropical plant that requires minimal maintenance. However, it is not immune to disease and pest infestations that may affect its growth and development. Adopting appropriate disease and pest management techniques is vital for the plant's overall health and longevity.
