Boerhavia commersonii Baill.
Boerhavia commersonii Baill. is also known as the Papilioniaceae family. It is commonly referred to as “Samba-telha,” “Lanca-pernilongo,” and “Carrapicho-graxa” in Brazil, where it is most commonly found.
Origin
The plant is native to the Central and South American regions of the world. It is a perennial plant that grows in tropical and subtropical climates, and it grows well in sandy soil.
Appearance
Boerhavia commersonii Baill. is an erect plant that can reach up to 40 cm in height. It has small, rounded leaves that grow from its succulent stem. The flowers are small and pink, and they bloom from the center of the leaves. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that contains black seeds.
Uses
Boerhavia commersonii Baill. has several medicinal uses. It is used as an anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and analgesic. It is also used to treat conditions such as liver disease, diabetes, and hypertension. The plant extracts have shown to have antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.
Boerhavia commersonii Baill. is also used as a food source in some regions. The young leaves and stems are eaten raw or cooked as a vegetable. The seeds are also edible and can be processed into flour or roasted as a snack.
In addition to its medicinal and culinary uses, Boerhavia commersonii Baill. is also used for cultural and spiritual practices. In some regions, it is believed that the plant possesses magical or supernatural powers, and it is used in spiritual rituals.
Growth Conditions of Boerhavia Commersonii Baill
Boerhavia commersonii Baill is a herbaceous plant native to South America, Africa, and Asia. The plant thrives in different ecological niches, but there are some standard growth conditions that are crucial for its healthy growth and development.
Light Requirements
Boerhavia commersonii Baill requires full sunlight to flourish. Therefore, it is advisable to plant the species in an area with direct exposure to sunlight. Partial shade could be detrimental to its growth since the plant requires sunlight for photosynthesis, which is crucial for its food production and overall growth. In addition, sunlight is a significant determinant of the flowering time of Boerhavia Commersonii Baill.
Temperature Requirements
Boerhavia Commersonii Baill has optimum growth and development between 30 - 35 °C. The plant can withstand high temperatures of up to 45 °C, but prolonged exposure can lead to stunted growth, fruit/flower abortion, and early senescence. The plant cannot survive in cold climates or regions that experience freezing temperatures since it is sensitive to frost.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers sandy, well-draining soils that are nutrient-rich. It thrives in soil pH ranging from 5.0 to 7.0. In areas with heavy soils, adding organic materials such as compost can improve drainage and increase the nutrient content of the soil. Adequate soil moisture is crucial for Boerhavia Commersonii Baill growth and development. Overwatering the plant can lead to waterlogged soils, which can cause root rot and other soil-borne diseases.
Therefore, Boerhavia Commersonii Baill requires full sun exposure, a warm tropical climate, and soil that is rich in nutrients, well-draining and moisture retentive for adequate growth and development.
Cultivation methods
Boerhavia commersonii Baill. grows well in a sunny or partially shaded location. It prefers a well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can be grown from seeds or stem cuttings. When grown from seeds, the seeds should be sown in a seedbed or container with a well-draining mix. The seeds should be sown in spring or early summer, and germination should occur within 7 to 21 days. Once the seedlings have grown to a height of 3 to 4 inches, they can be transplanted into a larger container or directly into the garden bed.
Watering needs
The plant requires moderate watering during the growing season. It is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which may kill the plant. The best way to water the plant is to water it deeply once a week. Make sure that the soil is dry to the touch before watering again.
Fertilization
Boerhavia commersonii Baill. is a heavy feeder and requires regular applications of fertilizer. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 should be applied every three months during the growing season. The fertilizer should be applied according to the manufacturer's instructions, and care should be taken not to overfertilize, as this can harm the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Boerhavia commersonii Baill. However, it is advisable to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased growth to keep the plant healthy. Pinching back the tips of the plant can also help promote bushy growth. This plant can become leggy or lanky if it is not regularly pruned or pinched back.
Propagation of Boerhavia commersonii Baill.
Boerhavia commersonii Baill. or shortpod false-mallow is an annual plant native to South America. The plant is drought-resistant and can tolerate various soil types, which makes it an ideal choice for rock gardens and xeriscaping. Propagation can be achieved through various means:
Seed propagation
The easiest and most efficient way to propagate Boerhavia commersonii Baill. is through seed. Seeds should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist during germination, which typically takes 7-10 days. Once the seedlings reach a height of 4-6 inches, they can be transplanted into their permanent outdoor location.
Cuttings propagation
Another viable method for propagating Boerhavia commersonii Baill. is cuttings. Take a 4-5 inch cutting from a mature plant, remove the lower leaves, and plant it in a well-draining soil mixture. Water regularly and within a few weeks, roots should start to form. The cutting can then be replanted into its permanent landscape spot.
Division propagation
Division is another method of propagation that involves separating the root system of an established plant into smaller sections. This technique works best with mature plants, and it's recommended to divide the plant during its dormant phase or early in the growing season. Once separated, the sections of the plant can be transplanted into new soil and given proper care to grow and establish.
Overall, Boerhavia commersonii Baill. is an easy-to-grow plant that can be propagated through various means. By utilizing these propagation methods, gardeners can enjoy a stunning and drought-resistant plant that adds color and texture to their landscape.
Disease and Pest Management for Boerhavia commersonii Baill.
Boerhavia commersonii Baill., also known as Red Spiderling or Creeping Cock's Comb, is a hardy plant that can thrive in various environments. Despite its resilience, it is still vulnerable to certain diseases and pests that can affect its growth and productivity. To ensure a healthy and vibrant Boerhavia commersonii, it is crucial to implement effective disease and pest management strategies.
Common Diseases
One of the common diseases that can affect Boerhavia commersonii is powdery mildew, a fungal infection that manifests as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems. This can be caused by poor air circulation and high humidity levels. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to improve the airflow around the plant and reduce humidity levels by watering in the morning or early afternoon.
Another disease that can affect Boerhavia commersonii is root rot, which is caused by overly wet soil or poor drainage. This disease can cause the plant to wilt and die quickly. To manage root rot, it is crucial to ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. If detected early, the plant can be saved by reducing water and applying a fungicide.
Common Pests
Boerhavia commersonii is also prone to pest infestations, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking the sap and weakening the stems and leaves. To control pest infestations, it is recommended to use organic methods such as introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs or releasing neem oil spray to deter the pests.
Caterpillars and beetles can also be a problem for Boerhavia commersonii, especially during the larval stage. These pests can quickly strip the plant of its leaves and significantly stunt its growth. To manage their infestation, handpicking the larvae or using insecticidal soap can be effective.
Overall, proper disease and pest management are essential to ensure a healthy and thriving Boerhavia commersonii Baill. By taking preventive measures and treating the plant promptly, you can keep it safe from diseases and pests and enjoy its vibrant beauty for years to come.
