Overview
Beckera schimperi Hochst. is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Acanthaceae. It is also known as "Aichryson" and "Umhlanga." This species is endemic to Ethiopia and occurs naturally at high altitudes in mountainous regions.
Appearance
Beckera schimperi has a woody base and grows up to 60 cm tall. Its leaves are oval or lance-shaped and have a dark green color. The plant produces numerous spikes of tubular, cream-colored flowers that grow up to 2 cm long. The flowers are arranged in stately clusters at the end of the branches.
Uses
Beckera schimperi is primarily used as an ornamental plant in gardens. It adds a unique and attractive texture to mixed plantings. It can also be grown in containers or used as a border plant. The plant is considered to be fairly low maintenance and can be propagated through division or cuttings.
In Ethiopia, Beckera schimperi is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments. The roots and leaves are used to treat stomach pains, fever, and diarrhea. The plant is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
Cultivation
Beckera schimperi prefers well-drained soil and moderate moisture levels. It thrives in full sun or partial shade. In Ethiopia, the plant is found growing in rocky soils and on mountain slopes. It is hardy in USDA Zones 8 to 11, and it is recommended to protect the plant from frost during the winter.
Light
Beckera schimperi Hochst. thrives in partial shade or filtered sunlight to protect them from the intense sun and heat. They can tolerate full sun conditions if they have enough moisture and good soil.
Temperature
The temperature required for the growth of Beckera schimperi Hochst. is moderate, ranging from 21-29 ºC (70-85 ºF). They can tolerate temperatures as low as 10 ºC (50 ºF) but should be protected from frost.
Soil
Beckera schimperi Hochst. prefers well-draining, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5-7.0. They should avoid soils that are heavy in clay or compacted as this hampers their growth and development.
Cultivation of Beckera schimperi Hochst.
Beckera schimperi Hochst. are succulent plants that are mainly grown indoors because they can't tolerate frost. They grow well in bright indirect sunlight and require a temperature range of 60-70°F (16-21°C).
When planting Beckera schimperi Hochst., use well-draining soil mixed with perlite to enhance drainage, and a container with drainage holes to prevent water logging.
Watering Needs
Beckera schimperi Hochst. requires moderate watering. During the growing season, water thoroughly and allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering. Reduce watering in winter and avoid waterlogging because it can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize Beckera schimperi Hochst. once a month during the growing season using a diluted, balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package and avoid overfertilization, which can burn the roots.
Pruning
Prune Beckera schimperi Hochst. annually during spring to remove any diseased or damaged leaves. To encourage bushier growth, pinch back the tips of new shoots regularly.
Propagation
Propagate Beckera schimperi Hochst. using seeds or by dividing the offsets from the mother plant. The best time to propagate the plant is during the growing season. When propagating, use a container with well-draining soil and place it in bright indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged until the new plant is established.
Propagation of Beckera schimperi Hochst.
Beckera schimperi Hochst. can be propagated through seed or division of its rhizome.
Propagation by Seed
The optimal time for collecting seeds of Beckera schimperi is during the mature stage, which is around October and November. The collected seeds should be sown immediately in a mixture of sand and compost or a well-drained potting soil mix.
It is essential to provide adequate moisture and light for the seeds' growth. Cover the seeds with a light layer of soil and ensure that the soil is always moist. The seeds usually germinate after two to four weeks.
Propagation by Division
The rhizomes of Beckera schimperi Hochst. can be divided in early spring or late autumn when the plant is dormant. Using a sharp, sterilized knife, carefully divide the rhizome into smaller sections, ensuring that each section has at least one healthy shoot and root system.
Plant the divided sections in a well-drained soil mix, in a location with partial shade. Water the new plants and keep the soil consistently moist until the plant gets established.
Propagation via division often results in quicker growth and a higher success rate than propagation via seed.
Disease and Pest Management of Beckera schimperi Hochst.
Beckera schimperi Hochst. is a beautiful ornamental plant that is generally not prone to significant disease and pest problems. However, it may still fall prey to certain ailments.
Diseases:
Bacterial leaf spot: This disease can occur in wet and humid conditions, appearing as small water-soaked spots on leaves, turning brown or black and eventually dropping off. To manage this disease, it is crucial to avoid watering the plant from above and instead water the soil directly and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Fungal leaf spot: This disease presents itself as round, small, dark brown or black spots on leaves. The leaves will become yellow and drop off, leading to early defoliation. Regular applications of fungicides such as copper-based fungicides can control this disease. It is essential to maintain adequate spacing between plants and avoid over-crowding.
Pests:
Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that can attract ants. They feed on the sap of tender shoots, causing curling or distortion. To manage aphids, you can use insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, or neem oil. Encouraging natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings goes a long way in controlling these pests.
Mites: These pests usually cause leaf discoloration or stippling, which is evident as white or yellow spots on the leaf surfaces. Mites thrive in hot and dry conditions. To manage them, consider spraying the plant with a forceful stream of water, applying insecticidal soap, or using miticides.
Mealybugs: These are small, white, cotton-like pests that usually cluster on the undersides of leaves and can cause distortion by sucking sap. Insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can control this pest. Pruning heavily infested areas and using yellow sticky traps can also be effective.
Proper plant care, including adequate watering, fertilizing, mulching, and maintaining good garden hygiene, can help prevent disease and pest problems in Beckera schimperi Hochst.
