Origin
Blepharis diversispina (Nees) C.B.Clarke, commonly known as the Tiger's Claw plant, is a species of flowering plant in the family Acanthaceae. It is native to Africa, specifically found in Angola, Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Common Names
Blepharis diversispina has a range of common names in different regions. In South Africa, it is known as the Kloutjie, Bobbejaankloutjie, or Rooikloutjie. In the Shona language, it is called Mupangara, while in Tonga, it is known as Lusumpuka. In Zimbabwe, it is sometimes referred to as Mupangara Wemvura or Mutekwekwe.
Uses
The Tiger's Claw plant has various medicinal uses in African traditional medicine. The roots of the plant are used to treat a variety of ailments, including eye diseases, stomach pains, venereal diseases, and fever. The plant is often brewed into tea, which is believed to have cleansing and purifying properties. The plant is also used in many cultural rituals in the region.
General Appearance
Blepharis diversispina is a small shrub that typically grows up to 0.6 meters in height. The leaves are narrow and elongated, measuring 2-4 cm long and about 0.2 cm wide. The flowers are tubular, measuring about 2 cm in length, and range from reddish-brown to yellowish-orange in color. The plant's most distinctive feature is its fruits, which are curved and covered in hooked spines, resembling a tiger's claw.
Light Requirements
Blepharis diversispina requires full to partial sunlight to grow properly. It cannot survive in completely shaded areas as it needs sunlight for photosynthesis. We recommend placing it near a south-facing window or in a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Blepharis diversispina is between 20-30°C (68-86°F). It cannot tolerate extreme temperatures, especially frost and freezing temperatures. Therefore, it is best to grow it indoors or in a greenhouse where the temperature can be regulated to suit the plant's requirements.
Soil Requirements
Blepharis diversispina requires well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to mildly alkaline. It grows best in loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. If the soil is too compacted, it may affect the plant's growth. Adding sand or perlite to the soil can help improve drainage and soil aeration.
Cultivation Methods:
Blepharis diversispina (Nees) C.B.Clarke is a hardy plant that can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clayey soils. However, it thrives best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant requires a moderate amount of sunlight, so it is ideal for partially shaded areas.
If you are planting Blepharis diversispina (Nees) C.B.Clarke, make sure to space them at least 60 cm apart to give enough room for their growth. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 0.5 cm below the soil surface, and watered immediately after planting.
Watering Needs:
It is essential to keep the soil moist but not soggy because the roots of the plant can quickly rot if they are sitting in water. Water the plant at least three times a week during the growing season, making sure to give it a thorough soaking. In the dormant season, reduce watering, but do not allow the soil to dry completely.
Fertilization:
Blepharis diversispina (Nees) C.B.Clarke responds well to regular feeding. During the growing season, apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks. You can also use compost or manure to improve soil fertility and help the plant grow faster. Avoid using chemical fertilizers that can harm the environment.
Pruning:
Prune Blepharis diversispina (Nees) C.B.Clarke during the growing season to remove any dead or damaged branches. This will help the plant grow stronger and healthier. You can also prune to maintain the plant's shape and size.
Cut back the shoot tips to encourage branching and trigger the growth of new flowers. Remember to disinfect your pruning shears with rubbing alcohol before and after each use to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Blepharis diversispina (Nees) C.B.Clarke
Blepharis diversispina (Nees) C.B.Clarke is a perennial herb that belongs to Acanthaceae family. This species is mainly propagated through seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
The seeds of Blepharis diversispina can be collected from the matured fruits which are capsule-like structures. The seeds should be cleaned thoroughly and sown in well-drained soil. The soil mixture should consist of equal parts of sand, perlite, and peat moss. Water the soil regularly and make sure it remains moist until the seeds germinate. The optimum temperature for germination is 25-30°C. The seeds usually germinate within two to three weeks.
Propagation by cuttings
The cuttings for propagation should be collected from the healthy mother plant during the growing season. Cuttings with a length of 10-12 cm and a diameter of 5-7 mm are suitable for propagation. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in well-drained soil, preferably a mixture of sand and peat moss. Keep the soil moist and make sure that the cutting receives indirect sunlight. The cutting usually roots within four to six weeks.
Both methods of propagation are effective and easy to perform. However, it should be noted that Blepharis diversispina is a relatively slow-growing plant, and it may take around two years for the plant to exhibit full growth potential.
Disease and Pest Management for Blepharis diversispina (Nees) C.B.Clarke
Blepharis diversispina (Nees) C.B.Clarke is an ornamental succulent plant that is native to Africa. Like any other plant, it is susceptible to several pests and diseases that can damage or even kill it. However, proper management practices can help keep these problems in check. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
1. Root Rot: Root rot is a common problem in succulent plants, including Blepharis diversispina. It is caused by overwatering, which leads to waterlogging, poor drainage, and the growth of fungi that attack the root system. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and softness of the stem. To manage root rot, ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that the soil is well-drained. Remove any infected roots and let the soil dry before watering again.
2. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is caused by fungal pathogens that attack the leaves and cause small brown spots. The spots may grow and merge, causing the leaves to turn yellow and drop prematurely. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and ensure that the plant is not overcrowded. Avoid overhead watering, as this can spread fungal spores.
Common Pests
1. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to become stippled and discolored. Severe infestations can cause the leaves to fall off. To manage spider mites, wash the leaves with soapy water or spray with insecticidal soap. Encouraging natural predators such as ladybugs can also help control the population.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small white insects that feed on the sap of Blepharis diversispina, causing the leaves to become yellow and wilted. They also produce a sticky substance that attracts ants. To manage mealybugs, apply a systemic insecticide or spray the plant with rubbing alcohol. You can also remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
By following these disease and pest management techniques, you can help keep your Blepharis diversispina plant healthy and thriving.
