Description of Becium monocotyloides Ayob.
Becium monocotyloides Ayob. is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Lamiaceae.
Origin
This plant is predominately found in South Africa and Swaziland.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as "Small-leaved becium," "Round-leaved shrub mint," and "Scented becium".
Appearance
Becium monocotyloides Ayob. grows up to 60 cm in height. The plant has a woody stem with thick branches. The leaves are round in shape, slightly serrated, and have a velvety texture. The flowers are small, pink in colour, and arranged in spikes at the end of the branches.
Uses
Becium monocotyloides Ayob. is widely used in traditional medicine in South Africa. The plant contains various chemical compounds that have antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. Additionally, the plant can be used to treat pain, fever, and respiratory infections. Becium monocotyloides Ayob. is also commonly used in South African cuisine as a flavoring for soups and stews.
Light requirements
Becium monocotyloides Ayob. prefers full sunlight. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow optimally. In low light conditions, the plant may struggle to photosynthesize, which can result in stunted growth and poor yield. Therefore, it is best to place this plant in a location where it can receive maximum sunlight.
Temperature requirements
The ideal temperature range for Becium monocotyloides Ayob. is between 16°C to 27°C. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it may become dormant during the hot summer months. If the temperature exceeds 30°C, the plant may suffer from heat stress, which can cause wilting and leaf drop. Similarly, in cold temperatures, the plant may stop growing, and its leaves may turn yellow and fall off.
Soil requirements
Becium monocotyloides Ayob. prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH, ranging from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline (pH 6.0-8.0). However, it cannot tolerate waterlogged soils, as it may lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Before planting, the soil should be amended with compost or well-rotted manure to improve the fertility and drainage.
Cultivation
Becium monocotyloides Ayob., commonly known as Shrub mint, is an easy-to-grow perennial plant that can be cultivated indoors or outdoors. It prefers full sunlight and well-drained soils. The plant is tolerant of dry conditions and requires minimal care.
Watering Needs
Shrub mint grows well in dry conditions, but watering may be necessary during hot and dry periods. Water the plant only when the soil becomes dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. Avoid watering the leaves, as it can lead to the development of fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Shrub mint doesn't require regular fertilization. However, it can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer application during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the application rate and frequency.
Pruning
Pruning Shrub mint can encourage bushy growth and promote the production of new leaves and flowers. Trim the plant after it has finished blooming or during the spring. Cut back the branches up to half its length. It's important to avoid pruning the plant down to the woody stems, as it can be damaging and result in slow growth.
Propagation of Becium monocotyloides Ayob.
Becium monocotyloides Ayob. plant can be propagated through various methods. Some of the common propagation methods for the plant are:
Seeds:
The seeds of Becium monocotyloides Ayob. are small and black in color. The best time to sow the seeds is during the spring season. The seeds need to be planted in a well-drained soil mixture, which is rich in organic matter. The seeds should be lightly covered with soil, and the soil should be kept moist until the seeds germinate. It takes about two to three weeks for the seeds to germinate.
Cuttings:
The plant can also be propagated through cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant during the spring season. The cuttings should be about 7-10 cm in length and should be taken from the tip of the stem. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone. The cutting should be planted in a well-drained soil mixture and should be kept moist until it establishes roots.
Division:
The plant can also be propagated through division. This method is suitable for mature plants that have a well-established root system. The plant should be carefully dug out of the ground, and the root system should be divided into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one stem and a healthy root system. The sections should be planted in a well-drained soil mixture and should be kept moist until they establish roots.
Propagation of Becium monocotyloides Ayob. is relatively easy. With proper care and attention, the plant can be propagated through any of these methods. The new plants will grow fast and can be used for landscaping purposes or in the herb garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Becium monocotyloides Ayob.
Becium monocotyloides Ayob. is a resilient plant that is resistant to many pests and diseases. However, certain conditions can threaten its growth and productivity. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that might infect the Becium monocotyloides Ayob. is the powdery mildew. This disease usually manifests as a white or grey powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and premature drop of flowers.
To manage this disease, it is important to maintain proper spacing between plants to promote adequate air circulation. Avoid overhead irrigation, which can create a moist environment suitable for the growth of the powdery mildew fungus. Use fungicides such as sulfur and neem oil to control the spread of the disease.
Another disease that might affect the Becium monocotyloides Ayob. is the root rot. This disease is caused by a fungus that thrives in waterlogged soil. It can cause wilting, yellowing of leaves, and eventual death of the plant.
To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage of the soil by adding organic matter such as compost to improve soil structure. Avoid over-watering the plant and monitor the soil moisture level regularly. If the disease has already infected the plant, remove and destroy the affected parts of the plant and apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Common Pests
The most common pest that can affect the Becium monocotyloides Ayob. is the aphids. These are small insects that can cause curled or yellowed leaves, stunted growth, and the secretion of a sticky substance on the plant.
To manage aphids, introduce natural predators such as ladybirds or lacewings to the affected area. You can also wash the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the aphids or apply insecticidal soap to kill them.
The plant might also be infested by spider mites, which are tiny insects that suck the sap from the plant. They are usually identified by their webbing on the plant leaves.
To manage spider mites, wash the plant thoroughly with water and apply a miticide to control the spread. You can also release natural predators such as predatory mites or beetles to feed on the spider mites.
By monitoring the plant regularly for signs of diseases and pests and implementing appropriate management techniques, you can ensure your Becium monocotyloides Ayob. thrives and provides a beautiful display in your garden.
