Overview
Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy, also known as the sticky spiderling, is a plant species belonging to the Nyctaginaceae family. It is a perennial herb that thrives in various habitats, including grasslands and deciduous forests.Appearance
The sticky spiderling is a relatively small plant, growing up to 40 centimeters in length. Its stem is slender and green, with small branches that peer off from every node. The plant's leaves are ovate, elongated, and glossy green. It has a noticeable greenish-pink inflorescence, accompanied by bright pinkish-red colored flowers with slender petals.Origin and Distribution
Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy grows naturally in various parts of the world, including Africa, Asia, and Australia. Its most prominent range is found in the Southern African region, in countries such as Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, and Madagascar.Common Names
Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy is known by different names, depending on the region where it grows. Some of the most commonly used names include the sticky spiderling, spiderling, elephant's foot, and sticky joyweed.Uses
The sticky spiderling has been used for various medicinal purposes in traditional medicine. It is known to have anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that help to alleviate different health conditions. The plant is also used as a herbal remedy for snake bites, chest pains, and diarrhea. Furthermore, the sticky spiderling is used in various parts of the world as a vegetable. The leaves are cooked as spinach, while the roots are boiled or roasted and eaten as a nutritious food. The plant's young shoots are also used as a flavorful ingredient in salads and other culinary dishes.Light Requirements
Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy is a type of plant that requires adequate sunlight to grow. In fact, it thrives best when it is grown in direct sunlight and is not suitable for indoor cultivation. Therefore, it is best to plant the seed outdoors in a location that receives full sun exposure.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. However, it is also adapted to withstand high temperatures in the range of 40°C to 45°C. It is ideal for planting in tropical and subtropical regions where the weather is warm and humid.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic material, with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. It can grow well in a wide range of soil types, including loam, sandy, or clay soils. But it requires good soil moisture retention, and soil fertility is an essential factor for optimal plant growth. Regular fertilization is recommended to ensure healthy plant growth.
Cultivation Methods
Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy is an easy-to-grow plant, and it thrives in a warm and humid environment. This plant can be grown in a variety of soils, from sandy to loamy, but it requires well-draining soil. Planting should be done in early spring when the soil is still moist. The plant prefers a partially shaded location, and it is susceptible to frost. Therefore, it should not be grown in areas with temperatures below 60°F (15°C).
Watering Needs
Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy requires regular watering to maintain its foliage. However, the plant does not need excessive watering, as this can lead to the development of root rot. A soil moisture meter can be used to check the soil moisture level. The plant should be watered when the soil is dry to a depth of two inches. When watering, make sure that the water penetrates deep into the soil, to reach the root zone.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for the proper growth and development of Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy. The plant requires a balanced fertilizer, with a higher concentration of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilizers should be applied during the growing season, every 4-6 weeks. Over-fertilization should be avoided, as this can lead to the accumulation of salt in the soil, which can harm the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy plant, as it grows naturally into a bushy form. However, dead or damaged branches, leaves, and flowers should be removed using pruning shears. This will help to improve the plant's appearance, and also promote better air circulation, which can prevent the development of fungal diseases.
Propagation of Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy
Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy propagates through seeds and stem cuttings. The plant is commonly propagated through seeds.
Propagation through Seeds
The seeds of Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy are sown in well-prepared soil during the rainy season. The seeds can be directly planted in the field or in the nursery. Before planting, the soil should be well-drained and have good organic content.
The seeds are sown at a depth of about 1 cm, and a distance of about 30 cm between each seed is maintained to provide enough space for growth.
The seedlings emerge within two weeks, and they are allowed to grow for about six weeks before transplanting them in the field or larger containers.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is also an effective method for Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy. The stem cuttings are collected from healthy plants during the growing season.
The cuttings are about 10 cm in length and are cut just below the node. The leaves are removed from the lower part of the cutting, and the cutting is allowed to dry and callus for a few hours.
The cuttings are then planted in well-prepared soil, and they are watered regularly. The cutting should root within three weeks, and the plant can be transplanted into the field or a larger container.
Propagation by stem cuttings is usually done in the rainy season when the plant is actively growing.
Disease and Pest Management for Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy
Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy is a hardy plant that can withstand harsh conditions. However, it is still susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can affect its growth and development. Below are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
1. Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases can affect Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy, particularly when the weather is wet and humid. Leaf spots and blights are common fungal diseases that can occur. These diseases can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off, thus affecting the plant's growth. To prevent fungal diseases, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure proper drainage. Remove any infected leaves and avoid wetting the leaves when watering the plant. Fungicides can also be used to manage fungal diseases.
2. Insects
Insects such as aphids, mealybugs, and whiteflies can attack the plant and cause damage. These insects suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage insect infestations, prune off any affected parts of the plant and use insecticides to kill the insects. Neem oil can also be used as a natural insecticide to repel insects.
3. Root-knot Nematodes
Root-knot nematodes are small, microscopic worms that can infect the roots of Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy. These nematodes cause galls to form on the roots, leading to poor uptake of water and nutrients. The plant may become stunted and eventually die. To manage root-knot nematodes, rotate crops and avoid planting Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy in the same spot twice. Soil solarization can also be used to kill nematodes in the soil.
4. Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases such as bacterial blight can affect Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy. These diseases can cause leaf spots, wilting, and yellowing of leaves. They can spread quickly, especially during wet weather conditions. To manage bacterial diseases, remove any infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Copper-based fungicides can also be used to manage bacterial diseases.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively manage diseases and pests in Boerhavia repens L. var. viscosa Choisy, ensuring its optimal growth and development.
