Origin
Boerhavia erecta L. var. intermedia (M.E. Jones) Kearney & Peebles, also known as Erect Spiderling, is a plant species that belongs to the Nyctaginaceae family. The plant is native to the southwestern United States, including California, Nevada, Utah, and Arizona.
Common Names
The Erect Spiderling goes by a few different common names, including Desert Spiderling and Brazilian Spiderling.
Uses
The Erect Spiderling has a few reported medicinal uses, including the treatment of stomach issues, diarrhea, and hypertension. The plant's roots, leaves, and stems can be used to make a tea or tincture. The tea is often used as a natural remedy for arthritis.
General Appearance
The Erect Spiderling is a small perennial shrub that typically grows to about 3 feet in height. The plant has narrow leaves that grow in clusters along the stem. The flowers are small and greenish-white in color, and they bloom from late spring to early fall. The plant's seeds are contained in small, round capsules that split open to release the seeds.
Growth conditions for Boerhavia erecta L. var. intermedia (M.E. Jones) Kearney & Peebles
Light: Boerhavia erecta L. var. intermedia requires full sunlight to grow properly. Therefore, it should be planted in an area where it can receive at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature: This plant is tolerant of high temperatures and can grow in a range of conditions. However, it grows best in warm temperatures between 25-35°C (77-95°F). It is not tolerant of frost and cold temperatures, which can damage the plant.
Soil: Boerhavia erecta L. var. intermedia prefers well-draining sandy or loamy soil with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and drought, but regular watering and fertilization will result in robust growth.
Water: This plant prefers moderate amounts of water and requires well-draining soil because standing water can cause root rot. The frequency of watering depends on the soil type and environmental conditions, but it should receive water regularly during dry spells.
Propagation: Boerhavia erecta L. var. intermedia is commonly propagated through seeds under warm and moist conditions. It can also be propagated through stem cuttings and root division with a high rate of success.
Pruning: Pruning this plant is not necessary, but it can be beneficial to encourage bushier growth and remove any diseased or damaged parts. Pruning is best done during the active growing season.
Fertilization: Regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer ensures healthy growth and flowering of Boerhavia erecta L. var. intermedia. Apply a slow-release fertilizer every two to three months during the growing season, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Pests and Diseases: Boerhavia erecta L. var. intermedia is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to rust, leaf spot, and stem rot due to overwatering or poor drainage. Regular inspection and treatment with a suitable fungicide can prevent these issues.
Cultivation methods
Boerhavia erecta L. var. intermedia (M.E. Jones) Kearney & Peebles, commonly known as Snake weed, can be easily grown from seed or stem cuttings. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. Plant the seeds half an inch deep and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Germination can occur within 10 days if the temperature is around 25°-30°C. These plants require full sun to grow and thrive.
Watering needs
The Snake weed is drought-tolerant, but for optimal growth, it should be watered regularly. Water once or twice a week, depending on the climate and soil type. The soil needs to be moist, but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. Always water the plants in the morning, as it ensures the foliage is dry before the night, and prevents fungal diseases caused by dampness.
Fertilization
Boerhavia erecta L. var. intermedia (M.E. Jones) Kearney & Peebles plants benefit from regular fertilization, especially during their growing season. Use a slow-release fertilizer with a balanced NPK ratio of 7-7-7 or 10-10-10. Apply the fertilizer every two to three weeks during the active growing season, and reduce it to once a month during the winter season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can result in poor flowering and leggy growth of the plant.
Pruning
Pruning helps maintain the shape and size of the Snake weed. It is best to prune these plants in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged stems. Cut back the overgrown branches to reduce the overall size of the plant, and to stimulate new growth and flowering. Do not cut back more than one-third of the plant's total height to prevent stress and shock to the plant.
Propagation methods for Boerhavia erecta L. var. intermedia
Boerhavia erecta L. var. intermedia, commonly known as erect spiderling or intermedia spiderling, is a flowering plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is a hardy plant that can withstand harsh environmental conditions and is easy to propagate. Here are the different methods used to propagate this plant:
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagation for Boerhavia erecta L. var. intermedia is through seed. The seed can be collected from the mature plant when the flowers turn into fruit and start to dry up. The seeds are small and can be directly sown in the field or in a seedling tray. It is important to note that the seed should be sown in well-drained soil and should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination usually occurs within 1 to 2 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted when they are big enough to handle.
Vegetative propagation
Boerhavia erecta L. var. intermedia can also be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings. Stem cuttings are usually taken from the mature plant during the growing season. The cutting should be about 4 to 6 inches long, and all the leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed. The cutting should then be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in well-drained soil. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and to place the cutting in a shaded area until it starts to grow roots. Once the cutting has grown roots, it can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Division
The division is another method used to propagate Boerhavia erecta L. var. intermedia. This method is best used for mature plants that have developed a rhizome. The rhizome can be dug up and divided into sections, each containing several shoots. The individual sections should be small enough to be replanted in a pot or directly in the field. It is important to keep the soil moist until new shoots emerge, which usually takes 2 to 3 weeks.
Disease Management
Boerhavia erecta L. var. intermedia (M.E. Jones) Kearney & Peebles is not highly susceptible to diseases but may be affected by some common fungal and bacterial infections. Regular maintenance and monitoring can prevent the spread of these diseases. Here are some common diseases that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is caused by the Colletotrichum genus of fungi and is characterized by circular or irregularly shaped spots on the plant's leaves. Severe infections can cause defoliation. Preventative measures include maintaining good hygiene practices around the plant such as removing fallen leaves and debris to reduce the spread of the fungus. Fungicide sprays are also effective in treating anthracnose.
Rust
Rust is a fungal disease that can result in yellow or brownish spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers of B. erecta. It is usually more prevalent in areas with high humidity and frequent rainfall. Rust can be treated with fungicide sprays, especially during periods of high infection rates.
Pest Management
B. erecta may be affected by several pests that can damage the plant by chewing on its leaves or stem, or sucking its sap. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are tiny, white, moth-like insects that suck the sap from leaves and excrete a sticky substance that can attract mold. The leaves affected by whiteflies appear yellow and curled. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to manage whiteflies or release natural predators like ladybugs to control them.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny reddish or yellowish insects that thrive in hot, dry conditions. They are difficult to detect until the damage is severe, causing yellow or brown spots on the leaves and a web-like substance covering the plant. Regular misting and good hygiene practices can prevent the growth of spider mites. Insecticidal soap or neem oil spray is also effective in controlling spider mites.
Overall, managing diseases and pests in B. erecta is essential to maintain optimal plant health and growth. Regular monitoring and applying appropriate solutions can mitigate the damage caused by diseases and pests, ensuring a healthy and thriving plant.
