Overview
Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. lupotoense P.A.Duvign. is a rare and unique plant species that is native to the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is a member of the Lamiaceae family, which is also known as the mint family.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the African basil, Congo basil, or green-gold Himalayan mint. Its scientific name is Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. lupotoense P.A.Duvign., and it is often referred to simply as Becium aureoviride.
Appearance
Becium aureoviride is a small, perennial herb that typically grows to a height of 20-30 cm. It has green, lanceolate leaves that are up to 5 cm long. The plant's stem is short and woody, and it produces numerous branches. The flowers of the plant are white or light purple and are arranged in dense terminal spikes.
Uses
The leaves of Becium aureoviride are harvested and used to make tea, which is believed to have medicinal properties. The tea is used to treat a variety of ailments, including colds, fever, and stomach problems. The plant is also used in traditional African medicine to treat respiratory infections and to enhance the immune system.
Growth conditions for Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. lupotoense P.A.Duvign.
Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. lupotoense P.A.Duvign. is a plant species that requires specific growth conditions to thrive. This species is endemic to the Democratic Republic of Congo and requires some unique conditions to grow well.
Light requirements
Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. lupotoense P.A.Duvign. requires moderate sunlight to grow. Exposure to direct sunlight for an extended period can cause damage to the plant, and intense shade can reduce its growth rate. A spot in partial shade would be the best location for growing this species.
Temperature requirements
The optimum temperature for the growth and development of Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. lupotoense P.A.Duvign. is between 20°C to 25°C. This means that it grows best in warm to tropical temperatures and can struggle to survive in colder climes. While it can tolerate mild temperature fluctuations, it can not persist under cold weather conditions.
Soil requirements
Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. lupotoense P.A.Duvign. prefers well-draining, loose, and slightly acidic soils. The optimal pH range for this plant species is between 6.0 to 6.5. The soil texture should be loamy and rich in organic matter. The plant requires regular watering, and the soil should remain moist but not waterlogged. It is also recommended to add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil to enhance growth.
Cultivation Methods for Becium Aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. Lupotoense P.A.Duvign.
Becium Aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. Lupotoense P.A.Duvign. is a shrub that grows well in warm climates. It is native to Africa and is an excellent choice for a garden with a Mediterranean climate. It grows up to six feet tall and six feet wide, making it a perfect plant for borders and hedges.
The plant requires well-draining soil with a pH level between 5.5 and 7.5. It also needs partial to full sun exposure to grow well. You can propagate the plant from seeds or by cuttings. However, it's easier to propagate the plant via cuttings.
Watering Needs for Becium Aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. Lupotoense P.A.Duvign.
Becium Aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. Lupotoense P.A.Duvign. plant requires moderate watering. You should provide enough water to keep the soil moist but not soggy. The plant is drought-tolerant, so it can withstand periods of little water. However, excessive watering can lead to root rot.
Since the plant is native to Africa, it's recommended to water it during the morning to prevent evaporation in the afternoon sun. A layer of mulch around the plant is also helpful to retain some moisture and keep the roots cool.
Fertilization for Becium Aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. Lupotoense P.A.Duvign.
Becium Aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. Lupotoense P.A.Duvign. requires a balanced fertilizer mix to grow well. Fertilize the plant with a slow-release granular fertilizer in the spring and fall. The ideal nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium ratio for this plant is 8-2-10.
Ensure that you read the label on the fertilizer package and follow the instructions correctly. Do not over-fertilize the plant as it can damage the roots and stunt growth.
Pruning for Becium Aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. Lupotoense P.A.Duvign.
Becium Aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. Lupotoense P.A.Duvign. responds well to pruning. You should prune the plant in the early spring to remove any dead or damaged stems and leaves. This will encourage new growth.
You can also prune the plant to control the size. Since the plant grows up to six feet tall and wide, it may outgrow its space. You can cut it back to your preferred size, and the plant will grow back bushier.
Propagation of Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. lupotoense P.A.Duvign.
Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. lupotoense P.A.Duvign., or commonly known as Lupoto mint, can be propagated through various methods, including:
1. Seeds
The plant produces seeds that can be sown directly into the ground. However, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained and fertile. The seeds should be planted at a depth of approximately 1 cm and watered regularly. It is recommended to plant the seeds during the rainy season for better germination.
2. Stem Cuttings
Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. lupotoense P.A.Duvign. can be easily propagated through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem and cut it at an angle of 45 degrees. Remove the leaves from the lower portion of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a potting mix of peat moss and perlite, keeping the soil moist. Place the pot in a warm and bright location, but not in direct sunlight. The cutting should root within a few weeks, and can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly into the ground.
3. Division
Division is another propagation method for Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. lupotoense P.A.Duvign. It is best done in the early spring or fall when the plant is not actively growing. Dig up the plant and carefully separate the root clumps. Replant the divided sections in containers or directly into the ground, ensuring that the soil is well-drained and kept moist until the plant establishes itself.
These propagation methods are relatively easy, and can be employed by gardeners and enthusiasts alike. Being a hardy plant, Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. lupotoense P.A.Duvign. grows easily and can be a great addition to any garden or collection.
Disease Management
Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. lupotoense P.A.Duvign. is a relatively disease-resistant plant species. However, it can still be affected by a few common diseases. The following are some of the diseases that might affect this plant:
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that appears as small circular spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove the infected leaves and treat the rest of the plant with a fungicide.
- Mildew: This is another fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. To manage mildew, spray a fungicide on the affected parts of the plant, and maintain proper air circulation around the plant.
Pest Management
Becium aureoviride P.A.Duvign. subsp. lupotoense P.A.Duvign. is also relatively pest-resistant, but a few pests might still attack it. The following are some of the pests that might affect this plant:
- Spider mites: These are tiny pests that feed on the plant's tissues, leaving a stippled appearance on the leaves. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a miticide, and maintain proper humidity levels around the plant.
- Aphids: These are small insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to become distorted. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or introduce natural predators like ladybugs around the plant.
Regular monitoring of the plant for signs of disease or pests can help in early detection and management. Additionally, maintaining optimal growing conditions, such as proper watering, fertilization, and sun exposure, can help in keeping the plant healthy and resistant to disease and pests.
