Origin
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. rubrocostatum (Robyns & Lebrun) Sebald is a perennial herbaceous plant that is native to Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Redvein becium, Redvein basil or Red-ribbed becium.
Uses
Redvein becium has medicinal qualities and is used for the treatment of various diseases and ailments. The plant is believed to have anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-malaria properties. It is used in traditional African medicine to treat respiratory infections, headaches, fever, and as an antiseptic. The leaves of the plant are also used by local communities to flavor food.
General Appearance
The plant stands between 20-80cm tall and has an upright growth form. The leaves are simple and are arranged in a whorled fashion around the stem. Redvein becium flowers bloom from summer to autumn and are borne in small, dense spikes at the tips of the branches. The flowers are pinkish-purple to lavender in color and are about 1.5cm long. The stems of the plant are red in color, while the leaves have a glossy green appearance with red veins. The plant prefers full sun or partial shade and thrives in warm areas.
Light Requirements
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. rubrocostatum (Robyns & Lebrun) Sebald requires an ample amount of sunlight to thrive. It typically grows in areas that receive full to partial sunlight, meaning it needs at least six to eight hours of sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires a warm temperature range of about 18°C to 27°C (65°F to 80°F) in order to grow effectively. It is a tropical plant and cannot withstand temperatures below 13°C (55°F).
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in most well-draining soils, especially sandy or loamy soils that are slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. However, it cannot tolerate soil that is too wet or heavy, as it damages the roots and may lead to rotting. Before planting, adding some organic matter such as compost or animal manure to the soil can improve its fertility and water-holding capacity.
Cultivation methods for Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. rubrocostatum (Robyns & Lebrun) Sebald
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. rubrocostatum (Robyns & Lebrun) Sebald thrives in well-draining soils, with a pH range of 6.0 - 7.5. To improve soil condition and drainage, be sure to add organic matter, like compost, to your planting area. The ideal planting time for this herb is typically in the spring or fall, although in some areas, it can be grown year-round.
Ensure it receives partial shade to full sunlight exposure, and shelter it from strong winds. If planting in a pot, select one with drainage holes to ensure excess water drains promptly.
Watering needs of Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. rubrocostatum (Robyns & Lebrun) Sebald
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. rubrocostatum (Robyns & Lebrun) Sebald does not tolerate standing water, so it is crucial to allow the soil to dry between each watering. It is also essential to water it at its base and avoid wetting the foliage, which can lead to fungal diseases. Keep the soil moist but not overly saturated, especially during the initial growth stages.
Fertilization of Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. rubrocostatum (Robyns & Lebrun) Sebald
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. rubrocostatum (Robyns & Lebrun) Sebald plants do not require heavy fertilization, but it's good practice to add a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to the soil during planting time. In case of poor soil, a well-placed dose of additional compost is an excellent and natural way of providing the plant with the nutrients it needs. Care should be exercised not to over-fertilize the plant to avoid scorching the roots.
Pruning of Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. rubrocostatum (Robyns & Lebrun) Sebald
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. rubrocostatum (Robyns & Lebrun) Sebald requires minimal pruning but can become leggy if left unchecked. Trim the most extended branches to promote bushier growth. After flowering, deadhead the spent blooms to encourage continued flowering throughout the growing season. In autumn, prune it back to about one-third of its length to ensure it retains a compact form.
Propagation of Becium grandiflorum var. rubrocostatum
Becium grandiflorum var. rubrocostatum can be propagated through both seeds and stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Becium grandiflorum var. rubrocostatum can be sown directly in the ground after the last frost or started indoors approximately 6-8 weeks before the last frost.
The seeds need to be kept moist during germination, which can take anywhere from 1-3 weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Stem cuttings are generally taken during the summer months when the plant is actively growing.
The stem cuttings should be approximately 4-6 inches in length and should be taken from the parent plant just below a node.
Dip the cutting in rooting hormone, and then place it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the potting mix moist but not wet, and in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight.
Rooting should occur within 2-4 weeks, at which point the cutting can be transferred to its permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Becium grandiflorum
Becium grandiflorum (Lam.) Pic.Serm. var. rubrocostatum (Robyns & Lebrun) Sebald is a plant species that may be vulnerable to a range of diseases and pests. Understanding the common issues and factors that may contribute to these risks is essential in developing effective management strategies to protect the plant's health and productivity. Here are some diseases and pests that may affect the Becium grandiflorum and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases Affecting Becium Grandiflorum
One of the most common diseases that can affect Becium grandiflorum is fungal leaf spot. The fungus manifests as dark brown or black spots on the plant's leaves and may cause defoliation if unmanaged. Botrytis blight is another fungal disease that can affect the plant, often causing yellowing and distortion of leaves and stunted growth. Root and stem rot can also affect Becium grandiflorum, particularly in wet soils, leading to wilting and plant death.
It is essential to practice good cultural management practices to prevent the spread of fungal diseases. Avoiding overwatering, providing adequate air circulation by spacing out the plants, and using appropriate fungicides can help control fungal diseases. Regular monitoring and surveillance of the plant for the early stage of diseases can also aid in preventing their spread.
Common Pests Affecting Becium Grandiflorum
Becium grandiflorum is susceptible to pest attacks, with the most notable pests being spider mites and aphids. These insects can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves, resulting in yellowing, mottling, and stunted growth.
Other pests that can harm Becium grandiflorum include thrips and whiteflies, leading to leaf curling, distortion, and discoloration and in severe infestations, stunted growth and plant death. The use of organic pest management methods such as spraying with neem-based solutions can help control most pest attacks while minimizing environmental impacts.
Conclusion
Effective disease and pest management strategies for Becium grandiflorum require a sound understanding of the common factors underlying their occurrence and spread. Good cultural practices, early detection of diseases and pests, and appropriate intervention strategies such as fungicides, organic sprays, and biological control can help prevent significant damage to the plant, maintaining its vitality and productivity for the foreseeable future.
