Origin
Becium obovatum (E.Mey. ex Benth.) N.E.Br. var. obovatum, commonly known as the round-leaved mint, is a flowering plant that is native to South Africa. It can be found growing naturally in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal regions of the country, but has also been introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant.
Common Names
Aside from being called the round-leaved mint, Becium obovatum var. obovatum is also known as the round-leaved basil. It is sometimes referred to by its Afrikaans name, "rondebasie".
Uses
Becium obovatum var. obovatum has a long history of use as a medicinal plant. In traditional African medicine, it was used to treat various ailments such as headaches, stomach problems, and fever. The plant is also used as a culinary herb, with its leaves having a strong minty and slightly bitter taste.
Additionally, Becium obovatum var. obovatum has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that make it useful in the pharmaceutical industry as an ingredient in certain topical products.
General Appearance
Becium obovatum var. obovatum is a small, perennial plant that grows up to 30cm tall. It has round, light green leaves that are densely arranged on the stems, giving it a bushy appearance. The flowers are usually white or pink and appear in clusters at the tip of the stems. The plant prefers growing in moist soils in full sun or partial shade.
Growth conditions for Becium obovatum (E.Mey. ex Benth.) N.E.Br. var. obovatum
Plants of Becium obovatum (E.Mey. ex Benth.) N.E.Br. var. obovatum are adapted to the conditions of their natural habitat, which is the fynbos biome of South Africa. The following are the typical growth conditions for this plant:
Light requirements
Becium obovatum (E.Mey. ex Benth.) N.E.Br. var. obovatum requires plenty of sunlight for optimal growth and development. This plant is best grown in a location that receives full sun exposure for at least six to eight hours a day. Insufficient light can lead to stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature requirements
Becium obovatum (E.Mey. ex Benth.) N.E.Br. var. obovatum is adapted to the Mediterranean climate of South Africa, with cool wet winters and warm dry summers. This plant prefers a mild climate with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 25°C. It is intolerant of frost and extreme heat and requires protection from these conditions.
Soil requirements
Becium obovatum (E.Mey. ex Benth.) N.E.Br. var. obovatum grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil is sandy or loamy with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It is important to note that this plant is adapted to poor soils and therefore should not be grown in overly fertile or heavily fertilized soil, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth and poor flowering.
Cultivation Methods
Becium obovatum (E.Mey. ex Benth.) N.E.Br. var. obovatum, commonly known as the round-leaved becium, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the mint family. It is native to South Africa and is well-suited for cultivation in warm, dry regions with well-draining soil. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate moderate drought conditions. To cultivate the plant, start from seeds or cuttings and allow them to germinate in a warm, sheltered place before transplanting them outside. It is good to ensure that the plant space is enough for growth.
Watering Needs
Becium obovatum (E.Mey. ex Benth.) N.E.Br. var. obovatum requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. However, it can tolerate drought conditions for short periods, making it ideal for low-maintenance gardens. It is essential to ensure that the soil has drained before watering the plant. Overwatering can lead to root rot and negatively impact the plant's growth.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth in Becium obovatum (E.Mey. ex Benth.) N.E.Br. var. obovatum, fertilize the plant during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer at least once a month. Alternatively, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer during the planting season. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can lead to bushy growth and fewer blooms.
Pruning
Pruning Becium obovatum (E.Mey. ex Benth.) N.E.Br. var. obovatum is necessary to maintain the plant's shape and promote bushy growth with more blooms. Prune back the plant after the flowering season, removing any dead or damaged foliage. You can also pinch back the growing tips to encourage a bushy shape. Regular pruning will help ensure healthy growth and abundant blooms.
Propagation of Becium obovatum
Becium obovatum (E.Mey. ex Benth.) N.E.Br. var. obovatum, also known as Wild Basil, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It is a perennial plant that is native to South Africa and forms a bushy shrub that can reach up to 1 meter in height. The plant produces small, purple-pink flowers that bloom in clusters at the end of its stems.
Propagation Methods
Becium obovatum can be propagated through various methods, such as stem cuttings, seed propagation, and division.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings is the most common way of propagating Becium obovatum. This method involves cutting a section of the stem from the mother plant and transplanting it to a new pot or garden. Cuttings should be taken in early spring or late summer and consist of a 8-10cm long, non-flowering stem with at least 2-3 pairs of leaves. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. Place the pot in a warm and moist location with indirect sunlight, and the cutting should root within a few weeks.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is another way of propagating Becium obovatum. Collect the seeds from the plant when the flowering ends and plant them in a seed tray or in a garden bed in spring or summer. The seeds should be planted 1-2 centimeters deep into fertile soil and watered daily until they germinate. Seedlings should be transplanted to a larger pot or a garden bed when they are large enough to handle.
Division
Becium obovatum can also be propagated through division. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections and planting each section into a new pot or garden bed. It is best to divide the plant in early spring before new growth begins. Dig up the clump and gently separate the sections, ensuring that each section has healthy roots and stems. Replant the sections in a well-draining potting mix or garden bed, keeping the soil moist until they are established.
Overall, Becium obovatum is an easy plant to propagate, and once established, require minimal care.
Disease and Pest Management for Becium obovatum var. obovatum
Becium obovatum var. obovatum is generally a hardy, low-maintenance plant that is resistant to most diseases and pests. However, there are a few common issues that may affect the plant. Here are some disease and pest management strategies:
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that may affect Becium obovatum var. obovatum is root rot, which is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To prevent root rot, make sure to plant the shrub in well-draining soil and only water when the top inch of soil is dry. If the plant is already infected, stop watering immediately, trim off any affected roots, and replant in new soil.
Another disease that may affect the plant is powdery mildew, which is a fungal infection that causes a white powdery substance to appear on the leaves. To prevent or treat powdery mildew, make sure to plant the shrub in a location with good air circulation and avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen. If the plant is already infected, use a fungicidal spray or a solution of baking soda and water to treat the leaves.
Pests
One of the most common pests that may affect Becium obovatum var. obovatum is mealybugs, which are small, white, cotton-like insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems. To prevent or treat mealybugs, use a neem oil spray or wipe the leaves and stems with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol.
Another pest that may affect the plant is spider mites, which are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant and cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop. To prevent or treat spider mites, use a neem oil spray or a solution of dish soap and water.
In conclusion, Becium obovatum var. obovatum is generally a hardy plant, but it may be affected by a few common diseases and pests. Following these disease and pest management strategies will help you keep your plants healthy and thriving.
