Overview of Becium fimbriatum (Briq.) Sebald var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) Sebald
Becium fimbriatum (Briq.) Sebald var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) Sebald is a shrub that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It is commonly referred to as 'Ngororamano' in Rwanda where it is native, but it is also found in Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Physical Appearance
Becium fimbriatum (Briq.) Sebald var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) Sebald generally grows up to a height of 1-2m tall and has small white or pink flowers that are arranged in whorls along the stem. The leaves are lanceolate, with a length between 1-3cm and a width of 0.2-0.6 cm. They are hairy, with serrated margins and are arranged oppositely along the stem.
Traditional Uses
In Rwanda, Becium fimbriatum (Briq.) Sebald var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) Sebald has been traditionally used to treat a variety of ailments, which include coughs, colds, and fever. It has also shown potential as an antimalarial and anti-microbial agent. The leaves are either chewed or boiled to extract its medicinal properties, and the stem and roots are sometimes used as fuelwood.
Cultivation and Conservation
Becium fimbriatum (Briq.) Sebald var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) Sebald is becoming a popular plant for its medicinal value, and as such, it is being cultivated in some regions. However, it is still relatively unknown, and more research is needed to ascertain its full potential. The conservation status of this plant is not yet assessed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Overall, Becium fimbriatum (Briq.) Sebald var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) Sebald is a promising medicinal plant that holds significant potential for treating various ailments. Its unique physical appearance makes it a beautiful shrub to have in your garden or landscape.Growth Conditions for Becium fimbriatum var. angustilanceolatum
Becium fimbriatum var. angustilanceolatum is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to southern Africa and can generally be found in grassland areas.
Light
Becium fimbriatum var. angustilanceolatum thrives in full sunlight. Therefore, it should be planted in areas that receive uninterrupted exposure to sunlight. When planting in an area with partial sunlight, it is important to ensure that the plant gets at least six hours of sunlight per day.
Temperature
This plant prefers warm temperatures and does best in areas with a minimum temperature of about 10°C and maximum temperatures of around 30°C. As such, it is best suited for areas with a tropical or subtropical climate.
Soil
Becium fimbriatum var. angustilanceolatum grows best in well-draining soil with pH levels ranging from about 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should also be slightly acidic to neutral. In addition, the soil should be rich in organic matter as this plant is known to benefit from higher levels of nutrients in the soil.
It is important to note that this plant is intolerant to waterlogged conditions. As such, it should be planted in areas with good soil drainage. When planting in areas with poor soil drainage, it is best to add organic matter to the soil to improve drainage before planting.
Overall, Becium fimbriatum var. angustilanceolatum is an easy-to-grow plant that requires little maintenance. With proper light, temperature, and soil conditions, it can thrive and even attract pollinators and other beneficial insects to your garden.
Cultivation methods for Becium fimbriatum var. angustilanceolatum
Becium fimbriatum var. angustilanceolatum is a hardy herbaceous plant that grows best in regions with a warm and temperate climate. It requires well-drained soil and partial sunlight for optimum growth. You can propagate this plant through seeds or cutting. Propagation through cuttings is more efficient and yields better results compared to seeds.
When planting, select a suitable location with well-draining soil. The soil needs to be slightly acidic, with a pH of 6-7. Soil with an acidic pH level will affect the growth and quality of the plant. Adding manure or compost to the soil will improve its fertility level. A layer of mulch can also help maintain moisture and keep the soil cool, which is ideal for plant growth.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Becium fimbriatum var. angustilanceolatum vary depending on the climate and season. The plant requires moderate watering during the growing season, mostly in the summer months. Overwatering the plant can cause root rot, while under-watering may result in stunted growth. A good watering schedule involves watering the plant once a week or every two weeks, depending on environmental conditions.
Ensure that the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can be damaging to the plant. During the winter season or drought, cut down watering to once a month to reduce the risks of waterlogging or root rot
Fertilization
Feeding Becium fimbriatum var. angustilanceolatum with fertilizer helps to boost its growth and overall quality. Apply fertilizer such as compost tea or organic fertilizer (like manure or compost) every few months during the plant's growing season for best results.
Be sure to apply the correct dose of fertilizer to prevent over-fertilization, which may damage the plant's roots and leaves. Remember, a healthy plant requires moderation and proper feeding.
Pruning Becium fimbriatum var. angustilanceolatum
Pruning Becium fimbriatum var. angustilanceolatum is crucial to maintain its shape and prolong its life span. It is best to prune the plant in the early spring or late fall after its flowering season. Use hand pruners or shears to remove dead, diseased or damaged leaves, branches, and stems. It will help to prevent the spread of any pests or diseases.
Cut the branches at an angle to promote faster healing while minimizing plant damage. Over-pruning may affect the plant's growth rate, vitality, and even lead to its death. It is crucial to be careful when removing branches from the plant. If in doubt, get professional gardener to do it for you.
Propagation of Becium fimbriatum var. angustilanceolatum
Becium fimbriatum var. angustilanceolatum can be propagated by various methods, including seeds, stem cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Becium fimbriatum var. angustilanceolatum can be collected from the plant during its blooming season. The collected seeds should be dried and stored in a cool, dry place until the next planting season. In early spring, the seeds can be sown directly into the garden soil or in seed-starting trays indoors. The seedlings should be transplanted to their permanent location after they have developed a few sets of leaves.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Becium fimbriatum var. angustilanceolatum can also be propagated by stem cuttings taken during the plant's growing season. Cuttings should be taken from the upper portion of the plant, just below a node, and have at least two sets of leaves. Remove the lower set of leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone. The cuttings can then be planted in individual pots with well-draining soil and kept in a warm, humid location until they have rooted. After rooting, the cuttings can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation by Division
Becium fimbriatum var. angustilanceolatum can also be propagated by division. This is the process of splitting the main plant into smaller sections and replanting them individually. To do this, carefully dig up the plant and separate the roots into sections, each with shoots and roots. Replant the smaller sections immediately and water thoroughly.
Disease Management
Becium fimbriatum (Briq.) Sebald var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) Sebald is a hardy plant that is resistant to most diseases. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot diseases like Septoria leaf spot and Cercospora leaf spot. These diseases are caused by fungal pathogens and can affect the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain good sanitation practices by removing infected leaves and debris from around the plant. Additionally, using a fungicide spray can help to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Becium fimbriatum (Briq.) Sebald var. angustilanceolatum (De Wild.) Sebald can be affected by a number of pests. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause stunted growth, distorted leaves, and a reduced yield. To manage aphids, it is important to regularly inspect plants for infestations and remove them with a strong blast of water or by using insecticidal soap.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged pests that can cause damage similar to aphids. They can be identified by the fine webbing they leave on the plant. To manage spider mites, it is important to regularly inspect plants for infestations and remove them with a strong blast of water or by using neem oil.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small, winged insects that feed on the underside of leaves. They can cause yellowing, stunted growth, and a reduced yield. To manage whiteflies, it is important to regularly inspect plants for infestations and remove them with a strong blast of water or by using insecticidal soap.
Snails and Slugs
Snails and slugs are mollusks that can cause damage to the foliage, stems, and flowers of the plant. They can be managed by handpicking them from a plant or by using a slug bait that contains iron phosphate.
