Overview
Boerhavia repens L. var. undulata Asch. & Graebn. is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Nyctaginaceae. This plant is commonly referred to as creeping spiderling, but it is also known by other names such as waveleaf spiderling, mat spiderling or trailing spiderling. It is a small perennial herb that is widely distributed throughout the world.
Appearance
The creeping spiderling has a prostrate habit, with stems that can grow up to 30 cm long. The leaves of this plant are small and ovate, with undulating edges that create a distinctive wavy appearance. Flowers are small, pink, and emerge in clusters at the ends of the stems. The fruits that follow are small capsules containing numerous tiny seeds that are dispersed by wind or animals.
Origin
The creeping spiderling is native to the tropical regions of America, but it has been introduced and naturalized in many parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and Australia. It prefers warm and humid environments, and it can be found in many different types of habitats, such as grasslands, forests, and sandy areas.
Uses
Boerhavia repens L. var. undulata Asch. & Graebn. has a long history of medicinal uses. In traditional medicine, different parts of the plant are used to treat various ailments, such as fever, diarrhea, dysentery, stomachache, and rheumatism. Modern research has also shown that this plant contains compounds with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-cancer properties. Additionally, the creeping spiderling is used as a groundcover in landscaping, due to its attractive and spreading growth habit.
Light Requirements
Boerhavia repens L. var. undulata Asch. & Graebn. requires full sunlight exposure for optimal growth and development. It can tolerate some shade or partial shade, but too much shade can hinder its growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species thrives in warm and tropical climates. It requires temperatures between 20-35°C (68-95°F) for optimal growth. In colder temperatures, the growth of Boerhavia repens L. var. undulata Asch. & Graebn. will slow down, and it may even go dormant.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients for optimal growth. It can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, the soil's pH level should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0-7.5 pH. Adding organic matter like compost and manure to the soil can help improve drainage, fertility, and water retention.
Cultivation Methods
Boerhavia repens L. var. undulata Asch. & Graebn., commonly known as spreading hogweed, is a perennial plant that is easy to cultivate as it can adjust to different soil types. It can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soils, but prefers full sun exposure. The recommended planting time for this species is in the spring or early summer. You should space them at least 30 cm apart to allow adequate growth.
Watering Needs
Watering is crucial during the growing season of Boerhavia repens L. var. undulata Asch. & Graebn. You should keep the soil moist for the first two to three months after planting to facilitate root development. Afterward, the plant can tolerate drought, but it is advisable to supplement the plant with enough water to stimulate uniform growth and good flowering.
Fertilization
Boerhavia repens L. var. undulata Asch. & Graebn. does not demand high levels of fertilization. You can add a complete fertilizer during the plant's early development stage, preferably 10-10-10, to help it grow full and strong. Later, during the flowering stage, you should apply a fertilizer with more phosphorus to enhance good flower development and blooming.
Pruning
When it comes to pruning, less is more. You should only prune Boerhavia repens L. var. undulata Asch. & Graebn. to control its spreading habit and size. The plant does not require regular pruning, but when you see a branch that hinders growth or any withering or dead leaves, you should prune them off immediately to allow the plant to distribute energy to the healthy parts.
Propagation of Boerhavia repens L. var. undulata Asch. & Graebn.
Boerhavia repens L. var. undulata Asch. & Graebn. can be propagated through various methods. Some of the commonly used propagation methods are:
Seeds
Seeds are the most common method of propagating Boerhavia repens L. var. undulata Asch. & Graebn. Seeds can be obtained from the matured and dried fruits of the plant. The fruits are collected and dried before removing the seeds. The seeds are then sown in the well-prepared beds or pots with well-drained, fertile soil. Seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and gently pressed in to ensure good soil contact. The soil should be kept moist throughout the germination process.
Cuttings
Cuttings from Boerhavia repens L. var. undulata Asch. & Graebn. can be rooted easily. Stem cuttings are taken from the mother plant and planted in well-prepared soil. Cuttings are usually taken in the early morning or late afternoon when the plant is less stressed. The cuttings should be at least 10 cm long and should have at least two nodes. The lower nodes are buried in the soil and the top node is exposed. The cutting should be kept moist and should be protected from direct sunlight.
Division
Boerhavia repens L. var. undulata Asch. & Graebn. can be propagated through division. The matured plants are dug up and divided into smaller sections. Each section should have a good portion of the root system attached to it. The divided sections are then planted in the new location. The new planting location should have well-drained, fertile soil. Water the newly transplanted divisions until they become established in their new location.
Air layering
Air layering is another propagation method that can be used for Boerhavia repens L. var. undulata Asch. & Graebn. This method involves peeling a thin strip of bark from the stem and applying rooting hormone to the exposed area. The area is then wrapped in moist sphagnum moss and covered with plastic wrap. The plastic wrap should be secured in place with tape. Roots will grow from the exposed area of the stem. Once roots are visible, the rooted stem can be separated from the mother plant and planted in a pot or directly into the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Boerhavia Repens L. var. Undulata Asch. & Graebn.
Boerhavia Repens L. var. Undulata Asch. & Graebn., commonly known as Spreading Hogweed, is a perennial herb that grows in tropical and subtropical regions. This plant possesses numerous health benefits, but it is also susceptible to several diseases and pests that can impede its growth.
Common Diseases:
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular spots on the leaves. The leaves become yellow and eventually fall off. To manage this disease, remove the infected parts and treat the plant with a fungicide.
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by over-watering and poorly drained soil. The plant's roots become mushy, and the plant wilts. To manage this disease, stop watering the plant and improve drainage. Remove the infected parts and treat the plant with a fungicide.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and flowers. A white powdery substance forms on the plant's surface, and the leaves become distorted. To manage this disease, remove the infected parts and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Common Pests:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the plant's sap and cause the leaves to curl. To manage this pest, remove the aphids by hand or use a strong stream of water to wash them off. You can also use insecticidal soap or oil.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, reddish-brown pests that feed on the underside of the plant's leaves. They cause yellow spots on the leaves and webs. To manage this pest, remove the infected parts and treat the plant with an insecticide.
- Snails and Slugs: Snails and slugs are nocturnal pests that feed on the plant's leaves and stems. They leave slime trails on the plant and cause holes in the leaves. To manage this pest, remove them manually or use a trap. You can also use baits or a copper barrier.
Regular monitoring and timely action can ensure that Boerhavia Repens L. var. Undulata Asch. & Graebn. stays healthy and productive.
