Overview
Boerhavia glabrata Blume is a small herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Nyctaginaceae. This plant is native to Asia, specifically to the regions of Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines.
Common Names
The common names for Boerhavia glabrata Blume include Philippine spiderling, creeping spiderling, and creeping boerhavia.
Appearance
Boerhavia glabrata Blume is a small plant that grows up to 15-30 cm in height. It has a trailing stem that is covered with short hair, and the leaves are small and oval-shaped with a dark green color. The flowers are white or pink and are located at the end of the stems.
Uses
Boerhavia glabrata Blume has numerous uses in traditional medicine, especially in the regions where it is native. The plant is used for its anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. The roots and leaves of the plant are used to treat a variety of ailments, such as fever, cough, diarrhea, and headaches. The plant also has several culinary uses, as it is used as an ingredient in certain soups and stews.
In addition to its medicinal and culinary uses, Boerhavia glabrata Blume is used as an ornamental plant because of its attractive appearance. Its small size and trailing stems make it a popular choice as a ground cover or as a hanging plant in gardens and indoor settings.
Light Requirements
Boerhavia glabrata Blume requires full sun for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate partial shade but it will grow spindly and may not flower well. Therefore, it is best to plant this species in a location where it will receive full sunlight throughout the day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Boerhavia glabrata is between 20 - 30°C. The plant will not survive in extremely cold temperatures. In locations where the temperature is consistently low, it is important to grow this species in a warm greenhouse or indoors with adequate light.
Soil Requirements
Boerhavia glabrata Blume grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. The soil should have a pH range between 5.5 - 7.5. The plant prefers loamy soils that are moist but not waterlogged. It can tolerate periodic dry spells but will not grow in soil that is permanently waterlogged. To improve soil quality, it is recommended to incorporate organic matter into the soil, such as compost or well-rotted manure.
Cultivation Methods
Boerhavia glabrata Blume, commonly known as Glabrous Spiderling, is a herbaceous plant that grows in tropical and subtropical climates. The optimal temperature for its growth ranges from 20 to 30°C. The plant can be cultivated in well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to mildly alkaline. It prefers bright sunlight and partial shade.
Watering Needs
Glabrous Spiderling requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant's health. In hot weather, the plant may need frequent watering to avoid wilting.
Fertilization
Fertilizing the plant helps provide the necessary nutrients for growth. It is essential to apply fertilizers during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 can be used. Applying organic fertilizers such as compost or manure can also be beneficial to the plant's health. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and avoid overfertilization as it can cause burning of the roots and leaves.
Pruning
Pruning is not a necessary requirement for Glabrous Spiderling, but it can enhance the plant's appearance. If pruning is required, it should be done in the early spring or after the plant has finished blooming. The plant can be pruned to remove any dead or damaged leaves, flowers, or stems. Regularly removing the old flowers can encourage the growth of new flower buds.
Propagation of Boerhavia glabrata Blume Plant
Boerhavia glabrata Blume plant can be propagated by various methods such as seed propagation, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
The plant produces seeds that can be collected from the parent plant for propagation. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in seed trays and should be covered lightly with a thin layer of soil. The seed trays should be kept in a warm, sunny location and should be watered regularly. The seeds germinate within two to three weeks of sowing. Once the seedlings have grown two or three leaves, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Stem Cuttings Propagation
The stem cuttings of Boerhavia glabrata Blume plant can also be used for propagation. It is best to take the cuttings during the growing season. Cuttings should be taken from the parent plant and should be around four to five inches long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cut end should be dipped in rooting hormone. The stem cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil and should be kept in a warm, humid location. The stem cutting should root within two to three weeks and can be transplanted once they have developed roots.
Division Propagation
The plant can also be propagated by dividing the root ball. It is best to do this during the spring season. The plant should be dug out carefully, and the root ball should be divided into smaller clumps. Each clump should have a few leaves and roots attached to it. The divided clumps should be planted in well-draining soil and should be kept in a warm, sunny location. The plant should start growing within a few weeks of planting.
Disease and Pest Management for Boerhavia glabrata Blume
Boerhavia glabrata Blume is a herbaceous plant that is native to tropical and subtropical regions. It is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil conditions. However, it is still susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that can affect Boerhavia glabrata and how to manage them:
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Boerhavia glabrata is leaf spot. Leaf spot is caused by a fungus that can cause brown spots on the leaves. If left untreated, the leaves can eventually turn yellow and fall off. To manage leaf spot, remove any infected leaves and dispose of them properly. You can also treat the plant with a fungicide to help control the spread of the disease. Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that can affect Boerhavia glabrata. It can cause a white powdery substance to form on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, you can treat the plant with a fungicide and make sure that the plant has adequate ventilation to reduce humidity levels.
Pests
One of the most common pests that can affect Boerhavia glabrata is aphids. Aphids are tiny insects that can cluster on the leaves and suck sap from the plant. This can cause the leaves to curl and become distorted. To manage aphids, you can blast the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the insects or use an insecticidal soap to kill them. Another pest that can affect Boerhavia glabrata is spider mites. Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can cause fine webbing to form on the leaves. They can also cause the leaves to become discolored and fall off. To manage spider mites, you can wash the leaves of the plant with a strong stream of water or use an insecticide specifically formulated for spider mites.
Overall, Boerhavia glabrata is a hardy plant that can withstand a variety of pests and diseases. With proper management, you can help keep your plants healthy and thriving for years to come.
