Overview
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. turkanaense (Sebald) A.J.Paton is a herbaceous plant species that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It is native to Africa and is commonly found in the eastern parts of the continent, specifically in Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia. It is known by several common names, including Turkanabean, Hophead, and Plantago-hoofbean.
Appearance
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. turkanaense (Sebald) A.J.Paton is a perennial herb that grows up to 60 cm in height. It has woody stems and branches that arise from the base, which are covered with fine white hairs. The leaves of the plant are simple, opposite, and ovate, measuring about 8-10 cm long and 4-5 cm wide. The plant produces beautiful pink to purplish-blue flowers that are shaped like funnel, which grow in clusters at the ends of the stems.
Uses
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. turkanaense (Sebald) A.J.Paton has several uses, both medicinal and traditional. In traditional medicine, the leaves and roots of the plant have been used to treat several conditions such as coughs, fever, headaches, and stomach disorders. It is also used as a sedative and to relieve pain. The leaves of the plant are also used to flavor tea. The plant is also gaining popularity in the ornamental industry as it is a beautiful addition to gardens and landscapes.
Growth Conditions for Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. turkanaense (Sebald) A.J.Paton
Light: Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. turkanaense (Sebald) A.J.Paton grows best in full sunlight. It is adapted to the hot and dry climates of Africa and requires plenty of direct sunlight to thrive.
Temperature: The typical growth temperature for Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. turkanaense (Sebald) A.J.Paton ranges from 25-35 °C. It is a heat-loving plant that can tolerate high temperatures and low humidity levels.
Soil: Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. turkanaense (Sebald) A.J.Paton grows well in well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to alkaline. It prefers sandy or clay soils that have good drainage. It is essential to avoid waterlogging, as the plant cannot tolerate wet soil.
Water: The plant requires low to moderate water levels. It is drought-tolerant, and its ability to store water helps it survive prolonged periods of drought.
Fertilizer: Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. turkanaense (Sebald) A.J.Paton does not require frequent application of fertilizers. It can benefit from a balanced fertilizer application at the start of the growing season to ensure adequate soil fertility.
Propagation: The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Cuttings are preferred because they are faster and easier to propagate and have higher root formation rates.
Cultivation of Becium Grandiflorum subsp. Turkanaense
Becium grandiflorum subsp. turkanaense is a plant that can grow in different types of soils, ranging from sandy to loamy soils. It prefers a well-drained soil with neutral to slightly acidic pH. It can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. When planting seeds, they should be sown at a depth of about 2-3 mm, and cuttings should be taken from healthy mature plants.
Watering Needs
Being a drought-tolerant plant, Becium grandiflorum subsp. turkanaense does not require much water. However, in areas with extended dry periods, it may require watering once a week to keep the soil moist. The plant should be watered only when the topsoil has dried up completely. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Fertilization
Becium grandiflorum subsp. turkanaense does not require much fertilizer. However, a well-balanced fertilizer mixed with compost can be added to the soil during planting. The fertilizer should be applied sparingly to avoid leaching of nutrients into groundwater. Applying compost annually can also help improve the soil structure, nutrient content, and water retention capacity.
Pruning
Becium grandiflorum subsp. turkanaense can grow up to a height of 1.5 meters, and regular pruning helps to maintain its shape, prevent overcrowding, and remove any diseased or damaged parts. Pruning should be done during the early spring or after the flowering season. It is advisable to use clean, sharp pruning scissors to avoid injuring the plant and to prevent the spread of diseases.
Following these cultivation and care tips will help ensure that Becium grandiflorum subsp. turkanaense grows healthy and thrives in your garden or landscape.
Propagation of Becium Grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. Turkanaense (Sebald) A.J.Paton
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. Turkanaense (Sebald) A.J.Paton is typically propagated through both seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds from Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. Turkanaense (Sebald) A.J.Paton can be collected from dry flowers. Once collected, they should be stored in a cool and dry place until planting. They should be sown in well-draining soil and kept consistently moist until germination, which can take up to three weeks. After germination, they should be thinned out and transplanted to their final location.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings from Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. Turkanaense (Sebald) A.J.Paton can be taken from both soft and hardwood stems. Softwood cuttings should be taken from new growth in the spring or early summer. Hardwood cuttings should be taken from older growth in the fall or winter. Cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil. They should be kept consistently moist and placed in a warm, bright location until roots develop, which can take several weeks. Once rooted, they can be transplanted to their final location.
Disease Management
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. subsp. turkanaense (Sebald) A.J.Paton is usually resistant to most diseases due to its strong natural defense mechanisms. However, plant diseases can still affect it under certain conditions, such as environmental stress or poor soil conditions.
One common disease that can affect this plant is powdery mildew. This fungal disease can cause a white powdery substance to appear on the leaves of the plant, which will eventually stop the plant from growing. To manage powdery mildew, it is best to avoid overcrowding and plant in well-draining soil. Fungicides can also be used to manage powdery mildew if the infestation is severe.
Another disease that can affect Becium grandiflorum subsp. turkanaense is root rot. This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and eventually die. To manage root rot, ensure the plant is not overwatered and that the soil is well-draining. Fungicides can also be used to manage root rot if the infestation is severe.
Pest Management
Similar to disease management, Becium grandiflorum subsp. turkanaense also has a natural resistance to most pests. However, some pests can still affect this plant, especially when planted in unsuitable environments.
One common pest that can affect this plant is aphids. Aphids are small insects that can cause severe damage to the plant by sucking sap from the leaves and stems. To manage aphids, it is best to spray the plants with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap. Ladybugs are predators of aphids and are excellent in controlling their population.
Caterpillars can also affect Becium grandiflorum subsp. turkanaense. These larvae can cause severe damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves and stems. To manage caterpillars, handpicking is the most effective method, but if the infestation is severe, the use of insecticides may be necessary.
Regular monitoring of the plant for any signs of diseases and pests is essential in maintaining the health of Becium grandiflorum subsp. turkanaense. Proper soil preparation, adequate watering, and providing enough sunlight are some ways to keep the plant healthy and resistant to pests and diseases.
