Overview
Blepharis scandens Vollesen is a climbing plant that belongs to the Acanthaceae family. It is native to East Africa and is commonly found in countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Common Names
The plant is known by several common names, including Climbing Blepharis, Climbing Eyebright, and Migbir.
Appearance
Blepharis scandens Vollesen is a trailing or climbing plant that can grow up to 2 meters in length. Its stems are slender and covered in small hairs. The plant's leaves are simple, ovate to oblong in shape, and come to a point. The flowers of the plant are tubular with five petals and come in shades of white, pink, blue, or purple.
Uses
The plant has a range of traditional medicinal uses. In Tanzania, the roots of the plant are used to treat snakebite, while in Kenya, the leaves and stems are used to treat various ailments, including stomach diseases and syphilis. The plant is also said to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Light Requirements
Blepharis scandens Vollesen typically requires full sun in order to grow and thrive. It is best planted in areas where it can receive direct sunlight for at least six hours per day. If planted in areas with insufficient sunlight, it may struggle to grow and bloom as expected.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Blepharis scandens Vollesen is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It is native to tropical regions and thus cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures. During cooler weather, it is best to keep the plant indoors or in a greenhouse to protect it from the cold.
Soil Requirements
Blepharis scandens Vollesen prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH range between 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and nutrients to promote healthy growth and blooming. Avoid soils that are heavy and prone to waterlogging as this can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation
Blepharis scandens grows best in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils.
It is ideal to sow the plant directly in the soil. Sow the seeds at a depth of 1-2 cm and keep the soil moist until the seedlings emerge.
Watering Needs
Blepharis scandens requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the soil dries out to a depth of 2-3 cm. However, avoid watering the plant too frequently, as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
During the growing season, apply a balanced fertilizer every six to eight weeks. Alternatively, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season and ensure that you follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning
Blepharis scandens may require minimal pruning to keep it in shape or to remove diseased or damaged growth. It would be best if you pruned the plant in early spring before the growing season begins.
Use pruning shears to cut out any dead or diseased branches. Additionally, you can pinch back the growing tips to encourage bushier and more robust growth.
Propagation of Blepharis scandens Vollesen
Blepharis scandens Vollesen is a robust and attractive plant that can be propagated using various methods. The plant can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, or division.
Propagation by seeds
The easiest and most common way to propagate Blepharis scandens is by seeds. First, allow the flowers to mature, fade away, and form seeds. Then, collect the seeds and soak them in water for several hours. Next, sow them in a well-draining potting mix, covering them slightly with soil. Mist the soil until moist, cover the container with plastic, and place it in a warm, brightly lit location.
After a couple of weeks, the seeds should germinate and produce young shoots. Once they have grown to around 2 inches, transplant them to their final container or bed. Blepharis scandens grown from seed may take two or more years to mature, but they are hardy and durable plants.
Propagation by cuttings
Another way to propagate Blepharis scandens is through cuttings. Choose a healthy stem, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to encourage root formation. Place the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it in a humid environment with bright, indirect light. After a few weeks, roots should start to grow, and the cutting can be transplanted to its final container or bed.
Propagation by division
Blepharis scandens Vollesen can also be propagated through division, which is best done during the spring or fall. Gently and carefully separate the plant's roots using a sharp knife, making sure to leave some foliage and stems intact. Plant the divisions in well-draining soil and water until moist.
Propagation through division enables the plant to establish more quickly, and the newly propagated plant should start flowering within a few years.
Disease and Pest Management for Blepharis scandens Vollesen
Blepharis scandens Vollesen, commonly known as Climbing Blepharis, is a hardy, drought-resistant plant that usually faces no major disease or pest issues if grown in favorable conditions. However, some conditions such as high humidity and poor air circulation can make the plant susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests found in Blepharis scandens along with ways to manage them:
Leaf Spot Diseases
Blepharis scandens can be susceptible to leaf spot diseases caused by fungi in humid or wet weather conditions. These diseases can cause brown or black discolored spots on the leaves. Effective management of leaf spot diseases includes removing any fallen debris from the soil and disposing of infected plant parts. Additionally, allowing better air circulation by avoiding overcrowding the plants, keeping the plants dry, and minimizing water splash on the leaves is essential. Fungicides can be used in severe cases, but they are not necessary if the above suggestions are noted.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are common pests that can attack Blepharis scandens. These tiny pests usually cluster on the underside of leaves and tend to suck the leaf's fluids. They can cause yellowing of the leaves, and extensive infestations can lead to leaf drop. Managing spider mites involves regular monitoring and keeping the plants clean and insect-free through regularly wiping down the leaves with a damp cloth. Insecticidal soaps or neem oil sprays can be used in the case of severe infestations.
Caterpillars and Mealybugs
Caterpillars and mealybugs are other common pests that can affect Blepharis scandens. Caterpillars can chew on leaves, and severe infestations can strip the plant of its leaves. Mealybugs, on the other hand, produce cottony substances that cover and protect them while they feed on the plant sap. To manage caterpillars, it is best to remove them manually or use a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis. Mealybugs can be wiped off with a cloth and treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil sprays.
Overall, the best way to manage pests and diseases on Blepharis scandens is through regular monitoring, maintaining good air circulation, and keeping the plants clean and insect-free through regular wiping and the removal of infected plant material.
