Overview of Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. crystallinum (A.J.Paton) J.-P.Lebrun & Stork
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. crystallinum (A.J.Paton) J.-P.Lebrun & Stork, commonly known as Crystal-leaved Becium, is a perennial herb that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. The plant is native to Africa and grows in rocky areas, savannas, and woodlands.
General Appearance
The plant has a compact and shrubby growth habit, with a height of up to 1 meter. Its leaves are small, opposite, and covered with numerous small, white, and shiny crystals, which give the plant its common name. The flowers of the plant are showy and attractive, with pink or purple hues, and grow in spikes at the end of the stems.
Uses
The Crystal-leaved Becium has various medicinal properties and is used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments. The plant is known to possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties and is used to treat coughs, fever, and respiratory infections. The leaves of the plant are also used to make a refreshing tea.
In addition to its medicinal properties, the plant is also grown as an ornamental plant and is suitable for rock gardens and borders. It is grown for its attractive flowers, as well as its striking foliage, which adds texture and interest to a garden.
Conclusion
The Crystal-leaved Becium is an attractive plant that has both ornamental and medicinal uses. Its unique appearance, with its shiny white crystals on the leaves and striking flowers, make it a plant worth adding to any garden. Additionally, its medicinal properties make it an essential plant in traditional African medicine.
Light Requirements
Becium grandiflorum var. crystallinum prefers full sunlight exposure, but it can also tolerate partial shade. Therefore, it is best to grow this plant in an open area where it can receive direct sunlight for at least six hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
Becium grandiflorum var. crystallinum is a warm-weather plant, which means that it thrives in warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 20°C to 32°C during the day and not cooler than 16°C at night. It is essential to protect the plant from frost, as exposure to freezing temperatures can be fatal.
Soil Requirements
When it comes to soil, Becium grandiflorum var. crystallinum prefers well-draining soils with good fertility. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. Avoid planting the plant in waterlogged or heavy clay soils as they can lead to root rot. A mix of organic compost and sandy loam soil is ideal for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. crystallinum (A.J.Paton) J.-P.Lebrun & Stork can thrive in a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, and well-drained soils. It grows well in full sun and partial shade and can withstand hot and dry conditions once established. The plant typically requires low maintenance and can be propagated from seeds or cuttings.
Watering Needs
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. crystallinum (A.J.Paton) J.-P.Lebrun & Stork prefers moderate watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant thoroughly but wait for the soil to dry out partially before watering again. However, be careful not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. crystallinum (A.J.Paton) J.-P.Lebrun & Stork is relatively low maintenance and does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can add organic compost or a balanced granular fertilizer to the soil during planting to provide the plant with the necessary nutrients to grow.
Pruning
Prune Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. crystallinum (A.J.Paton) J.-P.Lebrun & Stork to promote bushy growth and make the plant look neat. Cut back the stems by about one-third of their length after the flowering season to encourage new growth and fuller foliage. Additionally, remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems regularly to maintain the plant's health.
Propagation Methods of Becium grandiflorum var. crystallinum
Becium grandiflorum var. crystallinum can be propagated through various methods which include:
1. Seed Propagation:
Seeds of Becium grandiflorum var. crystallinum can be sown directly in the garden soil or raised in containers. The best time to sow seeds is in the spring when the soil is warm. Seeds should be sown at a depth of 1cm and spaced 30cm apart.
2. Cuttings:
Becium grandiflorum var. crystallinum can also be propagated through stem cuttings in the summer or autumn. Cuttings should be taken from the parent plant, ensuring that each cutting has at least two nodes. Cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist until they have rooted.
3. Division:
Another way to propagate Becium grandiflorum var. crystallinum is through division. To do this, lift the parent plant out of the ground in spring and divide it into smaller sections. Each section should have some roots attached. Replant the sections and keep them moist until they have established themselves.
Disease Management
Becium grandiflorum var. crystallinum is susceptible to several diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. Some of the common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes irregular brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the affected leaves and apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.
- Powdery mildew: This is another fungal disease that causes a powdery white coating on the leaves. To control this disease, prune infected parts of the plant, plant in well-drained soil, and apply a sulfur-based fungicide.
- Rust: This disease causes orange or yellow pustules on the leaves and stems. To control rust, remove and destroy infected leaves, and apply a fungicide.
Pest Management
The Becium grandiflorum var. crystallinum is prone to pest infestations that can weaken and damage the plant. Some of the common pests that might affect this plant include:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To control aphids, wash them off the plant with a strong stream of water, prune infested plant parts, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: These insects feed on the leaves and can cause significant defoliation. To control caterpillars, handpick and destroy them or apply a biological insecticide such as Bacillus thuringiensis.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the underside of the leaves, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regular inspection and monitoring of the plant can help identify pest and disease problems early, allowing for prompt management and prevention of further spread. It is also important to maintain good plant hygiene and avoid overcrowding of plants to minimize the risk of pest and disease infestations.
