Overview
Becium knyanum (Vatke) N.E.Br. ex Broun & R.E.Massey var. diffusum Ayob. is a perennial plant species that belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to East Africa and is commonly found in Kenya and Tanzania.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as mountain sage or African wild sage due to its sage-like aroma and appearance. In Kenya, it is also called 'Mutohoro' or 'Munyamo wa nyumbani' in Kikuyu, a local dialect.
Uses
Becium knyanum has been traditionally used as a herbal medicine in East Africa. The plant possesses several medicinal properties that have been employed by the local communities in the treatment of various ailments. For instance, the leaves and stem of the plant are used to soothe coughs, colds, and sore throats. The aromatic leaves are also believed to have antimalarial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. In addition, the plant is used as a culinary herb by some communities in East Africa. The leaves and young stems are used as flavorings in soup and stews.
Appearance
Becium knyanum is a perennial herb that grows up to 60cm tall. Its stem is thin and woody at the base, and the plant produces multiple branches that spread to form a bushy structure. The leaves are lance-shaped, with a dull green color, and are covered with fine hairs. The plant's flowers are small, tubular, and purple in color, and grow in clusters at the ends of the stems. They bloom in the months of July to September.
Typical Growth Conditions for Becium kyanum var. diffusum
Becium kyanum var. diffusum, commonly referred to as Ayob, is a subshrub that is indigenous to the eastern part of Africa. It grows well in a variety of conditions, and the following are some of its typical growth conditions.
Light
Ayob is a sun-loving plant, and it requires plenty of sunlight to thrive. It grows well in open areas that are exposed to direct sunlight for most of the day. When growing Ayob indoors, it's recommended to put it close to a south-facing window, where it can receive the maximum amount of light.
Temperature
Becium kyanum var. diffusum requires warm temperatures to grow well. Ideally, the plant should be grown in areas with temperatures between 25-30°C during the day and 15-20°C at night. While the plant can tolerate some cold, it's highly susceptible to frost and freezing temperatures, which can damage or kill it.
Soil Requirements
Ayob thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, and it should hold enough moisture to sustain the plant during drought conditions. The plant can tolerate moderately acidic to slightly alkaline soils, with a pH range of between 6.0 and 7.5.
In summary, Becium kyanum var. diffusum grows well in areas with plenty of sunlight, warm temperatures, and well-draining soils rich in organic matter. Growing the plant in these optimal conditions will ensure healthy growth, allowing it to reach maturity and produce beautiful flowers.
Cultivation Methods
Becium knyanum var. diffusum Ayob. is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant that can be cultivated in a wide range of soils. It thrives in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate a partial shade environment.
The best time to plant is during the rainy season, so that you need not water the plant often. If planting during the dry season, water frequently to help the plant establish itself. Plant the Becium knyanum var. diffusum Ayob. seedlings 20-30 cm apart and deep enough to cover the roots entirely. The plants take about two to three months before they are completely established, and should be kept weed-free in the meantime.
Watering Needs
Becium knyanum var. diffusum Ayob. requires little water once it is completely established. You should water the plants sparingly, as too much water can lead to root rot. The plants are drought-tolerant, so it's best not to overwater them. Once established, water the plant every seven to nine days, depending on rainfall and the environment's humidity level. It is also essential to water the plants in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation losses and mildew build-up.
Fertilization
It is recommended that you do not use fertilizers on Becium knyanum var. diffusum Ayob. Before planting, add organic matter to the soil to help enrich it. Additionally, top-dress the plant with a thin layer of compost or mulch when necessary. Organic matter can help improve the soil's structure and nutrient content, which helps the plant grow and produce healthy foliage.
Pruning
Becium knyanum var. diffusum Ayob. requires minimal pruning, but it is advisable to trim the plant regularly to keep it in excellent shape and encourage new growth. Pruning should be done frequently to remove any dead or yellow leaves, and to promote bushier growth. You can also prune the plant to control their height, but it is best to do it during the growing season.
Propagation of Becium knyanum (Vatke) N.E.Br. ex Broun & R.E.Massey var. diffusum Ayob.
Becium knyanum (Vatke) N.E.Br. ex Broun & R.E.Massey var. diffusum Ayob. can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Becium knyanum var. diffusum is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from the plant when they are mature and fully developed, which usually happens during the months of January to March. Seed collection should be done carefully to avoid damaging the plant or the seeds. After collection, the seeds should be dried and stored in a cool, dry place until planting time.
Before planting, the seeds should be soaked in water for at least 24 hours to soften the outer coat and improve germination rates. The seeds can then be planted in trays or pots filled with a well-draining soil mix. Lightly cover the seeds with soil and water gently. Place the trays or pots in a warm and bright location, but not in direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination should occur within two to four weeks. Once the seedlings have grown a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Propagation of Becium knyanum var. diffusum can also be done through stem cuttings. This method is faster than seed propagation and is useful for producing many plants from a single parent plant. The best time to take cuttings is during the growing season, which typically occurs from November to February.
To take cuttings, select a healthy and mature stem and cut off a portion that is at least four inches long. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem, leaving only a few leaves at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Water the soil and place the pot in a warm and bright location, but not in direct sunlight. Cover the pot with a plastic bag or a clear container to increase humidity. The cutting should root within a few weeks. Once roots develop, the plant can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Disease Management
The plant Becium knyanum var. diffusum Ayob. is generally healthy, but sometimes it can fall victim to some common diseases, especially if grown in damp or humid environments. Here are some of the common diseases that may affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spots
Leaf spots are a common disease that affect Becium knyanum var. diffusum Ayob. Fungal and bacterial infections can cause black or brown spots on the leaves of the plant. These spots can eventually cause the leaves to fall off and weaken the plant.
To manage leaf spots, it is important to remove and destroy infected leaves as soon as possible. Also, avoid watering the foliage and try to keep the plant dry. Using fungicides may also help to control the spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a white or gray powdery coating that appears on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It is a fungal infection that thrives in humid environments and can quickly spread from plant to plant.
To manage powdery mildew, it is important to avoid wetting the foliage of the plant and to increase air circulation around the plant. Pruning affected leaves and stems can also help to manage the disease. Using fungicides may also help to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Becium knyanum var. diffusum Ayob. can also be affected by a few pests. Here are some common pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can quickly multiply and cause damage to the plant by weakening the stems and leaves.
To manage aphids, it is important to regularly inspect the plant and remove any infested leaves or stems. Using insecticidal soap or neem oil can also help to control the infestation.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths that feed on the leaves of the plant. They can be easily recognized by their worm-like appearance and can cause significant damage to the plant if left untreated.
To manage caterpillars, it is important to regularly inspect the plant and remove any infested leaves or stems. Using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or other natural pesticides can also help to control the infestation.
