Origin and Common Names
Bihai bihai (L.) Griggs, also known as Bihai in English or ??????? (yi-ra) in Thai, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Acanthaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
General Appearance
The Bihai plant is a small to medium-sized shrub, growing up to 2 meters tall. It has a woody stem with green, oval-shaped leaves that are about 10 to 15 cm long. The plant produces inflorescences with clusters of orange or red tubular flowers that are around 5 cm long. The flowers have five lobes and bloom in the spring and summer.
Uses
Bihai bihai has been traditionally used in Southeast Asian medicine as a treatment for a variety of ailments. The leaves and flowers of the plant are used to make a medicinal tea that is believed to have anti-inflammatory, diuretic, anti-cancer, and antimicrobial properties. Additionally, the roots of the plant are used to treat constipation and dysentery.
Bihai bihai is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping due to its attractive flowers and foliage. It is easy to grow and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions, making it a popular choice for tropical gardens.
Light Requirements
Bihai bihai (L.) Griggs needs bright to medium indirect light. Direct sunlight can harm the plant, causing the leaves to burn or yellow. Place the plant near a window that gets filtered light or in a shaded outdoor location if the climate is warm enough.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Bihai bihai (L.) Griggs is between 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). The plant prefers a consistent temperature and can be sensitive to sudden temperature changes. Avoid placing the plant near drafty windows or air conditioning vents.
Soil Requirements
Bihai bihai (L.) Griggs thrives in well-draining soil that has a slightly acidic to neutral pH (between 6.0 to 7.0). The soil should be rich in organic matter, such as peat moss or compost. The plant is sensitive to waterlogged soil, so make sure the pot has drainage holes and avoid over-watering.
Cultivation Methods for Bihai Bihai
Bihai bihai, commonly known as necklace pod, is a tropical plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It can thrive in a wide range of soil conditions, but it prefers well-draining, loose, and fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH level of 6.0-6.5. To support healthy growth and development, the plant requires abundant sunlight, warm temperatures, and high humidity.
Watering Needs of Bihai Bihai
As a tropical plant, Bihai bihai prefers evenly moist soil, but not waterlogged. Watering frequency depends on the environmental conditions and the soil type. It's essential to regularly check the soil moisture level and adjust accordingly. In general, it's better to avoid letting the soil completely dry out as it can lead to wilting and stunted growth. When watering, ensure that the excess water is drained from the pot’s bottom to prevent root rot.
Fertilization of Bihai Bihai
Bihai bihai is a fast-growing plant, and it requires a regular supply of nutrients to support its growth. Apply a balanced water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season, from spring to early fall. Reduce the frequency to once a month during the winter season when the plant enters dormant phase and reduces its growth rate.
Pruning Bihai Bihai
Bihai bihai generally does not require extensive pruning. However, it can benefit from occasional pruning to control its shape, promote bushiness, and remove any damaged or diseased parts. Prune the plant during the growing season, and use clean, sharp pruners to make a clean cut. Avoid over-pruning, as it can reduce the plant's overall health and vigor.
Propagation Methods of Bihai bihai (L.) Griggs
Bihai bihai (L.) Griggs is a tropical plant that is best propagated vegetatively. There are several methods that can be used to propagate this plant successfully.
Division
The easiest way to propagate Bihai bihai (L.) Griggs is through division. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections and replanting them. This can be done by separating the plant's roots carefully with a sharp knife or digging up the plant and gently pulling the clumps apart by hand. Each section should have a good amount of roots and shoots to ensure that it will survive after transplanting. Division is best done during the plant's active growing season in spring or summer.
Cuttings
Another method of propagating Bihai bihai (L.) Griggs is through cuttings. This involves taking a cutting from the stem of the plant and rooting it in moist soil or water. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants and should be at least 4 inches in length. Remove the leaves from the bottom portion of the stem and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Place the cutting in a moist, well-draining potting mix or directly into water. Keep the soil or water consistently moist until roots develop.
Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is a more advanced method of propagating Bihai bihai (L.) Griggs. This method involves taking a tissue sample from the plant and growing it in a laboratory under controlled conditions. This method requires special equipment and skills and is best left to professionals or experienced growers.
Overall, Bihai bihai (L.) Griggs is a relatively easy plant to propagate using division or cuttings. With proper care and attention, propagation can be done successfully, allowing gardeners and plant enthusiasts to enjoy this tropical beauty in their own homes or gardens.
Disease and Pest Management for Bihai Bihai (L.) Griggs
Bihai bihai (L.) Griggs, commonly known as the African tulip tree, is a tropical tree that can grow up to 25 meters tall. Although it is relatively pest and disease-resistant, it can suffer from a few common issues. Below are some of the diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects leaves and twigs. It causes brown or black spots to form on the leaves, which eventually lead to defoliation. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant debris, avoid overhead watering, and promote good air circulation around the tree.
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots to decay. It can be caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. Symptoms of root rot include yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering. Remove and destroy heavily infected plants.
Pests
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can occasionally feed on the leaves of Bihai bihai. They can be managed by handpicking or spraying with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that can infest the foliage and bark. They suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and chlorosis. To manage mealybugs, prune heavily infested plant parts and spray with insecticidal soap.
Scale insects: Scale insects are small, immobile pests that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause yellowing of the leaves and weakened growth. To manage scale insects, prune heavily infested plant parts and spray with neem oil.
Regular monitoring and timely treatment of diseases and pests can keep the Bihai bihai plant healthy and vigorous.
