Origin and Common Names
Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. is a plant native to the African continent, particularly in countries such as Ethiopia, Sudan, Somalia, and Kenya. This plant is commonly known as the Eyelash flower or Eyelash bush due to its unique appearance.General Appearance
Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. is a perennial shrub that typically grows up to 30 cm tall. It has woody stems and long drooping inflorescences that are composed of numerous purple to reddish-pink flowers. The plant also has narrow leaves that are approximately 6 cm long and 1 cm wide. The flowers of this plant bloom during the dry seasons in its native habitat, which is between November to May.Uses
The Eyelash flower has various uses in traditional African medicine. In Ethiopia, the roots and leaves of the plant are used to make a decoction for the treatment of diarrhea and stomach ulcers. The plant is also used to treat skin infections, snake bites, and as a remedy for eye diseases. Additionally, the plant is used as a source of nectar for bees, and it is believed to have some insecticidal properties. In conclusion, Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. is a unique and useful plant that has various medicinal and ecological benefits in its native Africa.Growth Conditions for Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm.
Light Requirements: This plant thrives in areas with a lot of sunlight. It requires full sun or partial shade to grow properly; too much shade affects its overall growth.
Temperature Requirements: Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. grows best in warm to hot temperatures. It prefers temperatures between 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F). This plant can grow in areas with temperatures above 40°C (104°F), but only if the soil remains moist.
Soil Requirements: This plant species grows well in well-drained soils. It prefers sandy and loamy soils, which are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.5-7.5). It can adapt to clay soils but requires adequate drainage to prevent root rot.
Water Requirements: Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. requires moderate watering. It prefers soils that are moist but not saturated. During the growing season, it is necessary to water the plant regularly. Too much water can cause root rot, affecting the overall health of the plant.
Fertilizer Requirements: This plant requires minimal fertilization. A balanced fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) in equal ratios is adequate. Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive foliage growth instead of promoting flower or fruit production.
Special requirements: Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. is drought-tolerant and can withstand some degree of neglect once it's established. However, to encourage active growth and prevent the plant from becoming dormant, it's necessary to provide adequate water, sunlight and nutrient-rich soil during the growing season.
Cultivation methods
Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. can thrive in a range of soil types. However, it is preferable to have well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. It grows well in areas that experience full sun to partial shade. The plant requires a warm climate, and it is hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11.
Watering needs
It is essential to water the Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. regularly but moderately. The soil should be moist but not soggy or waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can lead to stunted growth and wilting of leaves. It is advisable to water the plants in the morning to allow excess water to evaporate.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth, Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. requires regular fertilization. Applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every four to six weeks is ideal. It is best to avoid over-fertilization as this can lead to excessive growth at the expense of flower production.
Pruning
Pruning Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. is essential to maintain healthy growth and shape of the plant. It is best to prune the plant after blooming to prevent the formation of seed pods. Deadheading spent blooms can promote the production of new flowers. It is best to use sharp, clean pruning tools and to sterilize them before and after use to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm.
Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. can be propagated by both seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. are very small and delicate. They take around 3-4 weeks to germinate and need to be sown in a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be covered lightly with soil and kept moist until germination.
The best time to sow seeds is during the spring season, but they can also be sown during summer and early monsoon season. Once the seedlings have grown at least 2-3 leaves, they should be transplanted into individual pots. It is recommended to keep the pots under partial shade until the plants grow strong enough to be exposed to direct sunlight.
Propagation by Cuttings
Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. can also be propagated by stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the summer season by using new shoots.
The cuttings should be around 6-8 inches long and should be taken from the lower part of the stem. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone powder. The stem cuttings should be placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept under partial shade. It takes around 3-4 weeks for the cuttings to root and grow new leaves.
It is important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, to avoid rotting of the cuttings. Once the cuttings have grown at least 2-3 leaves, they should be transplanted into individual pots and kept under partial shade until they grow strong enough to be exposed to direct sunlight.
Disease Management for Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm.
Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. is generally a hardy plant that is resistant to most diseases. However, some occasional diseases that it may encounter are:
Powdery Mildew
If you notice powdery mildew on the leaves of your plant, try removing the affected leaves. This should prevent the spread of the disease. In severe cases, apply a fungicide spray that is specifically designed to treat powdery mildew.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is another disease that can affect Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. It is usually caused by a fungal infection. If you notice leaf spot on the leaves of your plant, remove the affected leaves and dispose of them immediately to prevent the spread of the disease. Applying a fungicide spray can also help treat this disease.
Pest Management for Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm.
Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. may occasionally encounter some pests. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant:
Aphids
If you notice a few aphids on your plant, try removing them manually. You can use a forceful stream of water to knock them off the plant. In severe cases, you can use a pesticide spray to treat the plant.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars can also cause damage to the leaves of your plant. If you notice caterpillars on your plant, remove them manually and dispose of them immediately to prevent them from returning. Using a pesticide spray can also help you manage caterpillars.
By following these measures, you can ensure that your Blepharis subvolubilis C.B.Clarke var. longifolia Oberm. plant is healthy and thriving.
