Description of Blepharis Extenuata S.Moore
Blepharis extenuata S.Moore is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Acanthaceae. It is a small and herbaceous plant that is approximately 15-30 cm tall. The plant has long and thin green leaves that are about 2-3 cm long and 1-2 mm wide.
The flowers of Blepharis extenuata S.Moore are tubular and blue-purple in color. They grow in spikes that arise from the leaf axils. Each spike has about 10-20 flowers. The plant blooms during the summer months, from June to September and is widely distributed in the dry and arid regions of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
Common Names for Blepharis Extenuata S.Moore
Blepharis extenuata S.Moore is commonly known by many names, including
- Desert blepharis
- Zarzoor Elhamam
- Qusth
- Usharjat
- Carnaba
Uses of Blepharis Extenuata S.Moore
The plant is used for a wide range of purposes by the local communities living in the areas where it is found. The dried roots of the plant are boiled to make a tea that is believed to have medicinal properties that can be used for treating several ailments including stomach disorders, respiratory problems, and fever. The tea is also believed to have aphrodisiac properties.
The leaves of the plant are used as a vegetable in some communities where it is found. The seeds of the plant are also edible and can be ground to make flour that is used for making bread. In addition, the plant is also used for erosion control and as an ornamental plant in some regions.
General Appearance of Blepharis Extenuata S.Moore
Blepharis extenuata S.Moore is a small and herbaceous plant that has thin green leaves and blue-purple, tubular-shaped flowers that grow in spikes. The plant is found in the dry and arid regions of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It is commonly used for medicinal purposes and also as a vegetable by some communities where it is found. The plant is also used in erosion control and as an ornamental plant in some regions.
Light Requirements
Blepharis extenuata S.Moore prefers direct sunlight and grows best in bright conditions. It requires at least six hours of sunlight exposure per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from hot to warm. However, it prefers temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. During winters, the plant can withstand temperatures as low as 10°C but not lower than that.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-drained soil, preferably a sandy or loamy soil. It can also tolerate soils that are slightly alkaline. However, the soil should be rich in organic matter and should have a pH between 7 and 8.5.
Cultivation
Blepharis extenuata S.Moore is a drought-resistant perennial plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight for optimal growth. You can propagate this plant using cuttings or seeds. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or fall and planted in well-draining soil. Germination of seeds can take several weeks, and it is best to sow them in the spring.
Watering Needs
As a desert plant, Blepharis extenuata S.Moore can survive extended periods without water. However, regular watering can promote faster growth, especially during the growing season. It is best to water the plant once a week, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the winter months, watering can be reduced to once every two weeks.
Fertilization
Generally, Blepharis extenuata S.Moore does not require frequent fertilization. However, a dose of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can help boost growth. The fertilizer should be applied every two to three months, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning
Pruning of Blepharis extenuata S.Moore is essential for maintaining its shape and promoting healthy growth. It is recommended to trim the plant in the early spring or fall. The pruning should entail removing dead or damaged leaves, stems, and flowers. The plant can also be pinched back to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Blepharis extenuata S.Moore
Blepharis extenuata S.Moore can be propagated through several methods, including seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation via Seeds
The most common method of propagating Blepharis extenuata S.Moore is through seeds. This plant produces small, oval-shaped seeds that can be harvested once they have dried on the plant. The seeds can be sown directly in the ground or in trays filled with potting soil. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during germination.
Propagation via Cuttings
Blepharis extenuata S.Moore can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a stem cutting that is about 4 inches long and remove the leaves from the lower one-third of the stem. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a warm, bright location. The cutting should develop roots in 3-4 weeks.
Propagation via Division
Blepharis extenuata S.Moore can also be propagated through division. This method is best done in the spring when new growth begins to appear. Gently dig up the plant and separate the root ball into smaller sections with a sharp, clean knife. Replant the smaller sections in well-draining soil and keep them moist until they are established.
Disease Management for Blepharis extenuata S.Moore
Common diseases that can affect Blepharis extenuata S.Moore include powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot.
To manage powdery mildew, remove infected leaves and increase air circulation by spacing plants adequately. Fungicides can also be used as a preventive measure. To manage leaf spot, avoid overhead watering, remove infected plant parts, and apply fungicide as needed. Root rot can be managed by using well-draining soil and avoiding overwatering.
Pest Management for Blepharis extenuata S.Moore
Common pests that can affect Blepharis extenuata S.Moore include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs. Spider mites can be managed by increasing humidity, washing leaves with water, or using insecticidal soap. Whiteflies can be managed using yellow sticky traps or by introducing natural predators such as lacewings or parasitic wasps.
