Overview
Boerhavia adscendens Willd. is a small, perennial herb that belongs to the Nyctaginaceae family. It is commonly known as spreading hogweed and creeping boerhavia. The plant is native to Africa, and it can be found in many parts of the world, including Asia, Australia, and South America. It grows in tropical and subtropical regions and is particularly common in savannahs, grasslands, and disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields.Description
Boerhavia adscendens has a somewhat prostrate growth habit, forming mats of foliage that reach up to 10 cm in height. Its leaves are oval-shaped, alternate, and have a waxy coating that helps reduce water loss. The plant's flowers are small, pinkish-purple, and arranged in clusters at the end of stems. They bloom from summer to autumn and are followed by small, flattened fruits that contain the plant's seeds.Uses
Boerhavia adscendens has several traditional uses in different parts of the world. In Africa, the plant is used to treat a range of ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, and stomachache. The Zulu people also use the plant to stimulate milk production in nursing mothers. In India, Boerhavia adscendens is known as 'Punarnava' and is used in Ayurvedic medicine to promote healthy liver function, treat urinary tract infections, and enhance overall health. The plant is said to have diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.Cultivation
Boerhavia adscendens is easy to cultivate and can be grown from seeds or stem cuttings. The plant prefers full sun, and well-drained soil with a neutral to alkaline pH. It is tolerant of drought and can survive with minimal watering, making it suitable for xeriscaping. The plant may also self-seed and become invasive in some areas, so it is important to control its spread by removing unwanted plants. Overall, Boerhavia adscendens is a useful and attractive herb that can provide numerous benefits to those who grow and use it.
Growth conditions for Boerhavia adscendens Willd.
Boerhavia adscendens Willd. is a small, herbaceous plant that belongs to the Nyctaginaceae family. To ensure proper growth of the plant, it requires specific growth conditions, which are detailed below.
Light Requirements
Boerhavia adscendens Willd. prefers full sunlight, as it is a plant that requires intense light to grow properly. Therefore, it must be planted in an area where it can receive six or more hours of sunlight every day. The plant is not suitable for indoor cultivation.
Temperature Requirements
Boerhavia adscendens Willd. requires warm temperatures to grow properly. It thrives in temperatures between 20°C and 35°C, with a minimum temperature of 15°C. Therefore, planting the plant in areas with warm temperatures is ideal for proper growth and development.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained, sandy loam soil. Soil pH should range from 6.0 to 7.5, as soils with pH outside this range may negatively affect its growth. The plant also requires moderate irrigation. Regular fertilizer application with organic compounds can improve the soil fertility and, thus, enhance plant growth. The plant does not grow well in waterlogged soils.
Cultivation methods
Boerhavia adscendens Willd. can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. The best time for sowing seeds is during early spring, and the seeds need to be soaked in water overnight before sowing. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in a shady location, and the soil should be kept moist. Stem cuttings can be taken during early summer, and the cuttings should be planted in a well-draining potting mix with good aeration. The plant requires warm temperatures between 20 to 30°C for proper growth and development.
Watering needs
Boerhavia adscendens Willd. requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, the plant needs to be watered at least twice a week or more frequently if the weather is hot and dry. It is essential to avoid overwatering the plant, as it can lead to root rot and other diseases. While watering, it is best to avoid getting the leaves wet to prevent fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Boerhavia adscendens Willd. requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be applied every four to six weeks during the growing season. Organic fertilizers like compost and manure can also be used to enrich the soil. Care should be taken not to overfertilize the plant, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and size of Boerhavia adscendens Willd. It is best to prune the plant during the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Dead or damaged branches should be removed to improve the overall health of the plant. Regular pruning can also help to control the spread of the plant and prevent it from becoming invasive. It is essential to use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant and spreading diseases.
Propagation of Boerhavia adscendens Willd.
Boerhavia adscendens Willd., commonly known as climbing four o'clock, is propagated through different methods such as seeds, cuttings, and division of clumps.
Propagating through seeds:
Propagation through seeds is the most common method for Boerhavia adscendens Willd. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started in a seed tray. To sow directly into the soil, the seeds should be sown at a depth of 1 cm and spaced at least 10-15 cm apart. Water the area, and keep the soil moist until germination occurs.
To start in a seed tray, fill the tray with seed starting mix and then sow the seeds. The soil should be kept moist until germination occurs. Once the seedlings reach a size of 5-6 cm, they can be transplanted into a larger container or directly into the ground.
Propagating through cuttings:
Propagation through cuttings is another method for Boerhavia adscendens Willd. Select a healthy stem that is at least 10-15 cm long, and take a cutting. Remove any leaves that are near the bottom of the stem. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and place in a pot filled with a 50/50 mix of perlite and peat moss. The pot should be kept in a warm, bright location and watered regularly. Once roots have formed, the new plant can be transplanted into a larger container or directly into the ground.
Propagating through division of clumps:
Propagation through division of clumps is the preferred method for Boerhavia adscendens Willd., especially when the plant is established. To propagate through division, gently remove the plant from the ground, and separate the roots into smaller clumps. Ensure that each clump has roots and a healthy stem. Once separated, plant each clump in a new location, water, and keep the soil moist until the plant establishes itself.
Disease and Pest Management for Boerhavia adscendens Willd.
Boerhavia adscendens Willd. is a hardy plant that is not susceptible to many diseases or pests. However, certain environmental conditions or cultural practices can weaken the plant, making it vulnerable to various issues that can affect its growth and yield. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect Boerhavia adscendens Willd. and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf Spot Disease:
Leaf spot disease is a common problem that can affect Boerhavia adscendens Willd. It appears as small, dark brown spots on the leaves, which eventually turn yellow and fall off, leading to stunted growth and reduced yield. It is caused by a fungal infection, which can spread rapidly under moist conditions. To manage this disease, remove and destroy all infected plant parts immediately and avoid overhead watering. Apply a fungicide as recommended by a professional.
Root Rot:
Root rot is another fungal disease that affects Boerhavia adscendens Willd. It is caused by waterlogging of the soil, which deprives roots of oxygen, leading to their decay. The first visible sign of root rot is wilting of the leaves, followed by yellowing and death of the plant. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage of the soil and avoid over-irrigation. Apply a fungicide as recommended by a professional.
Pests
Aphids:
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of Boerhavia adscendens Willd., causing them to curl and distort. In severe infestations, they can cause stunted growth and reduced yield. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them or apply an insecticide as recommended by a professional.
Cutworms:
Cutworms are the larvae of certain moths that feed on the roots and stems of Boerhavia adscendens Willd. during the night, causing wilting and death of the plant. To manage cutworms, apply a biological control agent, such as Bacillus thuringiensis, or an insecticide as recommended by a professional.
Whiteflies:
Whiteflies are tiny, white insects that suck the sap from the leaves of Boerhavia adscendens Willd., causing them to turn yellow and fall off. They also secrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and encourages the growth of black sooty mold. To manage whiteflies, apply a systemic insecticide or a soap solution as recommended by a professional.
By following good cultural practices, such as proper irrigation, fertilization, and pruning, and monitoring the plant regularly for signs of diseases and pests, you can ensure a healthy and productive growth of Boerhavia adscendens Willd.
